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Setback at 5 months post TKR

Posted , 7 users are following.

karen_05830
karen_05830

Hi All-I’m new here so apologies if anything I post is redundant or in the wrong place. I’m 5 months post TKR. Went through all the awfulness of those first 3 months and was finally doing well. Back in the gym, elliptical for 2 miles, long walks, 30 minutes on stationary bike, core work etc. hardly any pain.  Still stiff and tight. Still had some issues going down steps but wasn’t concerned. But last week I took a step that sent a sharp, shooting pain through my knee that almost prevented me from walking. Couldn’t bend my knee at all. Went straight to the md. X-rays were fine. He wasn’t concerned but it’s been a week and while my knee is slightly better I feel like I’m back at month 2 or so. Did a 15 minute walk today and it wasn’t great. Icing, elevating, iboprophen. Trying not to take narcotics. Has anyone experienced a setback like this? I’m leaving Thailand in 2 weeks and am scared to death! Thx for reading such a long ramble!!!

1 like, 10 replies

10 Replies

  • kathylake
    kathylake karen_05830

    Posted

    Hi Karen

    While I haven't had a set back like that, I had a smaller set back at one month. I certainly hope your workout described above was several days not one. As you will read here recovery is not linear but a series of ups and downs. Just slow down, ice elevate and don't over do and it should return. You did what I would and that's having it checked out by your doctor. If he's not concerned you shouldn't be either. Good luck

    • karen_05830
      karen_05830 kathylake

      Posted

      Thanks! Yes, was only working out 3 days week. Built up to all those things. Back to very little. Planks, short walks.  More rest and ice than anything. Just frightened that something is going on in there and really bad timing! I had my other knee done 7 yrs ago with amazing results! Expecting the same of course! I’m a hiker and miss is desperately!!
  • kathylake
    kathylake karen_05830

    Posted

    Have faith you will get there, just when your knee says so, not anything you can do about timing. I hate it too. 
  • SharonBeth1975
    SharonBeth1975 karen_05830

    Posted

    Hi it sounds a lot like you have over done things a little remember it's still early days and you will have your ups and downs try ice packs and elevate your knee

  • Rcurry17
    Rcurry17 karen_05830

    Posted

    Yes, I am at 9 months post tkr and have had numerous set backs. I am back in physical therapy and still have pain. The knee is functional with normal rom but still have pain. I guess you just keep at it.
  • Oldfatguy1
    Oldfatguy1 karen_05830

    Posted

    You're in the right place and yes, these set backs can happen. Give it a couple days of real rest. No exercise, long walks etc. Add plenty of water to your diet and don't be afraid to take the pain meds. Possibly your surgeon failed to mention that it takes a year before you can really say the prosthesis is yours and you own the knee again. Up to that point, the knee owns you and will a t up when it has a mind to. That doesn't mean there is anything wrong, its just s till making adjustments to your activity level.

    • karen_05830
      karen_05830 Oldfatguy1

      Posted

      Thx! Well aware it’s a full year. Just weirded out by this new sharp pain. Will take everyone’s advice a chill for a bit. Thx for getting back to me!!!
  • CHICO_MARX
    CHICO_MARX karen_05830

    Posted

    What...you thought this would be a straight line, linear, all advances no setbacks recovery?  Really?  Hang this on your fridge...

    https://patient.info/forums/discuss/the-reality-of-a-tkr-recovery-in-one-picture-626038

    Setbacks are normal.  Back off, resume gradually.  Maybe you should have done 5 minutes instead of 15.  Plateaus are the worst...you think you'll never break through.  I got stuck at -4 for weeks and weeks.  Gotta stay strong and do the work.  Five months means you still have a ways to go.  Plan your one year TKR anniversary party...when you get there, you'll feel great!!!

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