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What to expect of knee stiffness

Posted , 9 users are following.

beccab107
beccab107

Hi All,  I am five weeks post TKR surgery.  Back in April I had THR.  Both surgeries went very well.  I heal quickly.  I have been walking without aids for at least two weeks.  Going upstairs normally (with a little extra effort).  My ROM reached 115 degrees very quickly and when I went to FU appt with surgeons assistant I a at 120 degrees which she said was their goal anyway. However, my knee I am still super stiff. I start outpatient PT Monday and I am hoping this will help.  I've been doing my exercises, but the stiffness doesn't seem to improve.

One other thing, during the knee surgery it was confirmed I have RA.  My rheumatologist didn't know if I had RA or PMR.  I've been testing negative for RA.  I think from what I have read the RA should not be an issue in that knee any longer. Per my surgeon my hip did not have signs of RA

Still wondering about the stiffness, though.  I am hoping someone can give me some insight.

Thank you 

0 likes, 10 replies

10 Replies

  • Oldfatguy1
    Oldfatguy1 beccab107

    Posted

    You will be subject to stiffness u til the swelling is completely gone. It may take awhile as each time you work the leg it will swell some. I wouldn't be overly concerned, just stay with the icing proceedure after every period of excercise. Sounds like you are doing very well and should be one of those that will have an unusually speedy recovery. Just remember this is a slow process at best
    • beccab107
      beccab107 Oldfatguy1

      Posted

      Thanks, Oldfatguy1.Your assurances are very uplifting.  You helped me with my "knee popping" experience.  That pain did subside and went away relatively quickly just as you said it would.  I am an impatient person.  
  • joyce_61477
    joyce_61477 beccab107

    Posted

    Hi

    At 5 weeks post op TKR stiffness us to be expected. I am 5 1/2 months bilateral TKR and the stiffness is finally getting better, though still there. Sounds like you are doing really well at 5 weeks. Just be patient with your new knee and yourself....I know finally I am improving because I had to think about how many weeks post op I am...24 weeks.

    Good luck,

    Joyce

  • hazel14959
    hazel14959 beccab107

    Posted

    The stiffness will be with you for a little while, I don't actually remember when mine went...it just disappeared.  Don't miss it as it can be annoying and only elevation, ice can help.   Don't over do the exercises, take it easy...take it slow...you will get there.

    I am 25 weeks po, 75 and for the first time since June last year I am getting back into my hobbies.  Lost all  interest and couldn't concentrate, now I pace myself, two hours doing the hobbies, then rest and chill for at least 1 hour or more.  Life is getting better.razz

  • sarah87162
    sarah87162 beccab107

    Posted

    Sounds as if you are doing really well. It took me ages to get 90 degree bend when I had my TKR 3 years ago.

    The stiffness will improve I would not worry too much about it.

    Sarah

    • deborah90838
      deborah90838 sarah87162

      Posted

      Hi Sarah, I've just reached 2 weeks postop on my 2nd TKR.  My first one recovered unbelievably well so I'm struggling in my head with this 2nd one.  I have reached 102 degree bend with much difficulty and stiffness.How long did it take you to get to 90?  I'm trying really hard not to compare my 2 knees but I don't have any reference point as to how I'm doing.  I see my PA tomorrow for my check up but I just feel that folks on the forum understand so much more.
    • sarah87162
      sarah87162 deborah90838

      Posted

      My bending was poor. I just managed to read 90 degrees for my 6 week appointment with my consultant.

      Yes it is important not to compare too much.

      Take care and keep in touch

      Sarah xxx

  • beccab107
    beccab107

    Posted

    Thanks folks for your encouragement.

    for me to just straighten up never mind walk.  

  • forrest11258
    forrest11258 beccab107

    Posted

    I am at exactly 5 1/2 weeks too with PKR.  My knee is sore all the time and also very stiff.  It feels really thick and if I am in one position for very long it is painful to work it out.  I was wearing loose workout pants up until several,days ago when I finally wore my jeans but after awhile my scar area started to feel very irritated.....so back to the baggies.  Some days I get so sick of it and have to remind myself that this is a much slower process than I ever imagined.  
  • beccab107
    beccab107

    Posted

    Just reporting back after all this time.  My knee is still stiff but pain free.  It still gets very stiff most of the time.  It works itself out if I am walking around but it I walk around too much it starts to get still again.  I have complete range of motion which was never a problem.  In the scheme of things, I am going quite well. I also have RA which I am dealing with.  
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