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Having knee replacement: how to prepare and questions about PT
Joint Replacements | Last Active: Jun 17, 2021 | Replies (170)Comment receiving replies
I'm 5weeks since TKR (L) , working still on range of motion. My legs naturally hyper-exte nded and I naturally stood that way, right leg flexs at 145. Now my left is 4 at rest before pt stretches (to 0) and 2 after, when can barely move it. Flex is better...117 unassisted, 130 assisted. I know will never be equal at 145.
I'm still struggling with extension...prefer things to do at home, I cannot wait to be done with PT painful assisted stretches.
Yesterday was relearning how to walk, my gait and balance is off, it takes so much effort and focus right now, still stuck with a cane. (I was a runner this doesn't work for me, maybe Judy need more patience).
I've got this tight feeling all around lower thigh, knee, upper calf, assuming that will go away when swelling finally goes away someday.
Similar experiences, normal..
Replies to "I'm 5weeks since TKR (L) , working still on range of motion. My legs naturally hyper-exte..."
@coffeecraz - I've had two TKR's. Although you cannot believe it now because it seems like FOREVER... 5 weeks is pretty early. You will definitely continue to improve. In my experience, 8 weeks was a real milestone. Things got much more "normal". I understand you are still doing PT. I'm sorry they are being so aggressive with assisted stretches. My physical therapist was more focused on helping me develop my own abilities. Also, congrats on you ROM. I think you are doing great. Not sure I completely understand. Your ROM is great - so the reason you need a cane is balance?
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Hello @coffeecraz, welcome to Connect. I merged your discussion with another one titled, "Having knee replacement: how to prepare and questions about PT." I did this because some of the conversation is relevant to the issues you are having and so the members in this discussion would see your post and have a chance to share their experiences. You may also find the following knee replacement discussions relevant as well:
- After knee replacement surgery, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/after-knee-replacement-surgery/
- Limited ROM after knee replacement, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/limited-rom-after-total-knee-replacement/
- Gait after TKR, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/gait-after-tkr/
@coffeecraz, many members talk about how they have issues with flexion (I am in that camp), so it is great to hear that you are doing well in that area. Does your knee being at 4 when resting for extension cause any issues with you? I am curious if that is enough to concern your surgeon in regards to your gait? 5 weeks is pretty fresh still and it sounds like you are making progress early on. Walking was difficult for me as well and took some time to get used to.