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TKR mobility issues

Posted , 8 users are following.

donna14826
donna14826

I've just finished 5 weeks since total knee replacement surgery can't seem to get the knee straighten. Some issues with bending, but I think that's just cuz of all the pain

0 likes, 10 replies

10 Replies

  • joan17325
    joan17325 donna14826

    Posted

    I'm 4 week's second TKR. This one defo more troublesome can't bend past 80 and hurts to straighten if I do manage it's horrendous to get it bent again. It's so swollen and i know that's why. I'm continuing with icing and just bought a tens circulation machine and i think it feels a wee bit better tonight watch this space lol

  • MarieMichelle
    MarieMichelle donna14826

    Posted

    Hi Donna, I totally understand your pain and frustration. I am at 6 weeks and just got my bend to 90 HOWEVER it is still painful and still so swollen. Based on this forum , most people have swelling for 2- 3 months , I know if this swelling goes down things will def improve, but gettting it down is a real struggle. I ice like 8 hours a day sad ... good luck 
  • ronnie41565
    ronnie41565 donna14826

    Posted

    I am almost at 5 months with my tkr. At weeks 4, 5, and 6 you will still have problems with the straightening and getting your knee bend.

    My knee is somewhat swollen still, but mot like it was when I was in week 5. Not being able to bend is due to the swelling.

    My last check up as week 12 and my doctor said my bend will come in time. I am at about 128 with mt bend. And can straiten my leg out all the way

  • donna14826
    donna14826

    Posted

    thank you everyone for your replies. I'm going to keep on working on it. And try not to stress as much

  • marilyn10235
    marilyn10235 donna14826

    Posted

    Hi Donna, we all think that by 5/6 weeks we’ll be on the road to full recovery! I remember last year telling work I’ll be back in 6 weeks the night before my op, it was actually 12 & only just then! Unfortunately our bodies don’t always agree with our estimates!

    You are actually doing really well for 5 weeks. Keep up with your physiotherapy & you will get there! I have found this knee to be easier to bend & straighten than the last, but every recovery is different, we are individuals after all, & so are our joints, perseverance is key.

    Do all your exercises & icing, remember when it comes to exercise quality over quantity! Recovery takes as long as it takes, this can be a long journey & can’t be shortened, as when you do too much your knee will let you know. Just understand that the knee is in control & you are along for the ride. Enjoy!

    when you are walking about in the summer you will look back & wonder what you were worried about. 

    Once the swelling goes down a bit more you will find the flexion & extension will improve. 

    Good luck on your journey. You WILL get to the end when you’re meant to.

    Chico always used to say “be more zen” (sorry for quoting you Chico!)

    Marilyn 

    XX

     

    • MarieMichelle
      MarieMichelle marilyn10235

      Posted

      Marilyn, thanks for this post , you have given me more hope as at 7weeks post op i am starting to get a little depressed about all this swelling and anxiety of going back yo work when i know i am not ready , thank you for your words of encouragement 
    • marilyn10235
      marilyn10235 MarieMichelle

      Posted

      Yes I know we put ourselves under unnecessary pressure. If you need to take 6 months off from work you must do that, longer if you need it! Let the knee guide you, whilst you are still having swelling & pain don’t even consider it! 

      Some heal faster than others. I was quite lucky last year but this knee is totally different! But then I retired at the end of October so this year I don’t have that worry of going back to work.

      Really & truly 7 weeks is nothing in the greater scheme, so don’t fret about it, relax & do what you need to get the knee moving.

      Icing & elevating are your new best friends.

      You will get there, just do what you’ve gotta do & go with the flow.

      All the best for the New Year.

      Marilyn

      XX

    • MarieMichelle
      MarieMichelle marilyn10235

      Posted

      Thank you Marily, you are very kind and I appreciate your replies. Yes I do put pressure on myself . I do ice about 6 hours a day .. I do elevate every night ( have a temperpedic bed so that allows good elevation - but still swelling doesnt go downsad ) 
    • marilyn10235
      marilyn10235 MarieMichelle

      Posted

      For some people that's just how it is! Some swell & keep on swelling no matter what they do! We are all different & our body's response to pain etc after an op is different! It's hard when you are one of those, as you question what you're doing wrong. Don't! You aren't doing anything wrong, it is just your body's reaction & you can't do anything to change that! Just do as you are, & believe! You WILL get there, some take longer than others. No matter how long it takes it's the outcome that counts. Being out of pain & no more limping is our end goal, no more no less.

      Just tell yourself "I am perfect. I can do this".

      Sending you hugs 🤗 🤗🤗🤗

      Marilyn 

      XX

  • sarah87162
    sarah87162 donna14826

    Posted

    Be patient this is still very early days.

    Also I see you posted about tingling. Don't worry I got this after my TKR it does not last long.

    Take care and keep in touch.

    Love Sarah xx 

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