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Walking outside

Posted , 6 users are following.

pat65260
pat65260

I had a right TKR mid Feb.I'm happy with my exercises and meds.My problem is I can walk around at home unaided but as soon as I go outside I freeze.My husband walks with me very slowly but at times I keep grabing his arm.I know its a confidence thing but just dont know how to overcome it.I think at tims I'll never e able to do it.Has anyone else had this problem.

1 like, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • barb31990
    barb31990 pat65260

    Posted

    Continue using a cane until you feel comfortable. I used my for 12weeks, no one should judge you as everyone heals differently.
    • pat65260
      pat65260 barb31990

      Posted

      Thank you Barb .I'll stop looking at what other people have done and stop thinking I'm not doing enough.

    • celeste74784
      celeste74784 barb31990

      Posted

      Barbara, i had my surgery in February also. I walk around the house ok.but I use a cane anytime I'm outside or going anywhere. Getting in and out of the car is still painful and the cane really helps out. I hope that helps you.

  • joan17325
    joan17325 pat65260

    Posted

    im still using a stick outside 6 months since op Use any aid till you get stronger and confident It will happen someday Dont judge yourself Even thought its nice to hold on to your man lol smile cheesygrin
    • pat65260
      pat65260 joan17325

      Posted

      Thanks Joan Its definitely a confidence thing and will still use my trusty stick.
  • Oldfatguy1
    Oldfatguy1 pat65260

    Posted

    Use a cane outdoors. You will gradually gain confidence. Put the cane in the hand opposite the repaired knee. I know some Drs and PT's want all assistive devises dropped at 4 to 6 weeks but it's a lot better having a little help th and freezing and taking a fall. I've been through 5 complete rehab and the cane has been a real blessing plus its never slowed my total rehab.

  • CHICO_MARX
    CHICO_MARX pat65260

    Posted

    You start with a walker.  Once you have more strength, transition to a cane.  Use it as long as you need to but be independent.  You need to do exercises to rebuild the strength in your quads, glutes and core so you can walk correctly, regain your balance and then master stairs correctly.  Gotta do the muscle rebuild.  You will feel stronger and more self-confident.
    • pat65260
      pat65260 CHICO_MARX

      Posted

      Thank you and to you all who have replied.I realise now I have been comparing myself to others and need to think about my own recovery.I've taken on board your comments about exercises and know i need to do some I've not been doing before and if I need to use my stick then do so.Not think its something I should avoid doing.

  • jenny80029
    jenny80029 pat65260

    Posted

    I found using two lightweight walking poles excellent...better than one for keeping body balanced and i used to walk very fast I with them. In was using for longer walks around 12 weeks post op and beyond.

    It helped to get back into the rhythm of walking.

    My quads were still quite weak so it helped confidence wise too, as when i had been walk I for some time the muscles did get tired and my leg tended to give way from time to time.

    I would encourage you to get to a swimming pool and walk in the water...it helps a lot. Plus some exercises to strengthen muscles. When you feel your leg is strong it will help you a lot.

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