Posted , 13 users are following.
Post operation three weeks. Knee feels fine but range of motion is only about 60 degrees, is this a worry. I am doing exercises but my physio is saying she is going to really push the range next week.
0 likes, 25 replies
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chrisa306driver justin59084
Posted
I really pushed myself in addition to the PT.
Was on bike at gym at 2 weeks post op. My
Father in Law didn't do his exercises and was on a cane
Until the day he died. He was my inspiration.
martinarvelo chrisa306driver
Posted
Yes, I agree you do have to make the effort! At two weeks, however, I was still only just able able to shuffle across the room . . . until day 10 I was in hospital, with anaemia etc. . and I didn't really get going well until about a month after the op. The ten weeks following that, however, were pretty well knee orientated, with two kms. walking a day, exercises four times, and pushing and pushing the bend whenever I was watching tv, or sitting down. It's hard work . . but it's worth it. I know someone who gave up, and is now bedridden . . . but that's really the other end of the spectrum!
Irish_Al justin59084
Posted
Justin,
Varying input.
I had an excellent physio, pushed me and I pushed myself, but my body told me.
Your's will do the same.
If in doubt get a second Professional opinion.
Take Care,
Alan
judy17487 justin59084
Posted
My physio did that to me on second week. I almost came off the table and told her if she hurt me again, I'd have to kill her.
renee38282 judy17487
Posted
You rule! Yeah some of these physios are really horrendous. I was crying after a brutal session and she backed off. I had to use crutches for several days the pain was unbearable. That set me back a good week or two. It's like you're just a thing not a person and they do the same exercises on everyone at the same intensity to reach their pre established goals. Not taking into account your age mental stamina and physical stamina. And pain tolerance. That's why you have to take charge from the start. If it hurts to where you're in agony and tears it's too much! How does that help? I've noticed all the PT s are quite young and have probably never gone through anything like this themselves. I would love to find and older more experienced PT.
judy17487 renee38282
Posted
CHICO_MARX justin59084
Posted
At three weeks, you've just started the loooooong TKR journey. These may help...
https://patient.info/forums/discuss/the-tkr-experience-or-wish-i-had-another-kidney-stone--524499
https://patient.info/forums/discuss/zero-degrees--517809
Stay strong. No excuses; do the work. It's definitely not easy but you can do it. Above all: Don't "expect" anything within a certain amount of time or compare yourself to others. Everyone's recovery is very individual.
dave63380 justin59084
Posted
You always need to push / doesn't mean hurt yourself/ you're the only one who knows where the line is / don't be afraid to tell your PT to STOP!
I've had both knees replaced and have done over a year of physical therapy/ my patella was fractured in second knee surgery and I had to wait 6 weeks before starting aggressive therapy for ROM. I still got to 120 degrees even with the delay. By the way, once you reach that elusive ROM goal you have to continue to work to maintain it.
I think these physical therapists were taught in school that there is only a six week window of opportunity to achieve the desired ROM which is probably why some of them push so hard. True the sooner you get there the easier it will be, doesn't mean that it's the only way. Maybe they just need to gain some experience, or maybe they're just evil and sadistic!
ihavenonickname justin59084
Posted
60 degrees is light.
Perhaps a neoprene knee compression sleeve...it is specifically made to cradle to patella, knee cap.
It is best to elevate your knee above your heart while placing a frozen gel ice pack beneath the knee as well as on top of the knee for an hour while you read, telly, chat, knit or whatever.
Then extend your leg straight up and hold it up for 30 seconds. Now slip the sleeve on. In about another hour you shoukd have much less discomfort and pain. You may sleep in the sleeve. You will be amazed how much easier the exercises will be because the swelling will come way down.
Kind regards
Judith