After knee replacement surgery
Had left knee replaced 9 days ago. Right knee two years ago. Having a problem with inflammation so hard to bend knee and exercise. Trying to ice and raise knee above heart. Doctor suggested getting compression hose. Anybody have this experience and can offer suggestions. So tired all the time from pain interrupting my sleep and painkillers. My insurance refused to pay for the painkiller recommended by surgeon so have to take one with more opiates. That's frustrating. Two years ago it was covered but now too expensive for me to use. Seems the drug companies, not our doctors are determining what we use.
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@cobweb I must admit, before my first TKR I was in severe pain 24/7 so it was a huge relief to not be anymore. I had plenty of time before this one though to strengthen the surrounding muscles and help it, so I was doing pretty well. Because of that, I did not feel the huge relief I had after the first TKR. I am happy with it now though. I ride my recumbent bike about 30 - 35 minutes most days, around 6 miles, do my pool exercises, and also do gym equipment at my health club. NO KNEE PRESSES I was told by my ortho.
JK
I've been searching for an affordable solution to stem cells. Can I ask where you had yours done and how much it cost. What I have found in Cal is about $6000, a joint.
My back was $1000, the knee $7000. My option was to go to Cincinnati but worth it to stay home. The place i had it done is now offering the stem cell treatments at a reduce cost to employees.
Shocking amount, I paid 1 price for 5 joints. Dr. from USC said Stem cells like a carton of ice cream - a scoop here, a scoop there, another scoop there. How about a reduced price for All patients? I could have done more joints for same price. And PRP in 5 joints.
How about USC, Dr. Thomas.Vangsness 323 442 8017 He is the Researcher and Stem Cell man.
As I've said, try PRP first $500. then go for Stem C - $$$$.
@grandmajan The last I heard, stem cells were not always effective. I would hate to pay all of that and then not have them work. I would definitely check out how successful the doctor has been in treating with stem cells.
JK
i did check it out. Worked great on my back and my knee is holding its own. The problem is we have people doing stem cells who are not trained or qualified and people blindly seek their services. Do your homework i say.
Thank You , thank You. For the information. I live in San Diego, So will look up Dr. Vangsness, today. It's more than worth a try. I realize that not all joints are good candidates for PRP, but by the same token not all TKR's turn out right either.
One more question, I'm now on Warfrin because I have Afib and leaky left valve. Is that a problem? Frankly I would like to find a way to prevent clots or thin my blood without taking chemical blood thinners.