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At about 1 year out from my knee replacement, I started to develop severe loss of range-of-motion. Previously I had about 115 deg and then about 1 year out, it was about 85 deg. I have continued to exercise and do daily activities, but I am not able to achieve more than 90 deg. My surgeon says it's mainly scar tissue. I am continuing with PT, but he has said that joint manipulation may be my next treatment. Is manipulation > 1 year dangerous or risky? The lack of motion is OK for running, but for cycling it is very frustrating. Or are there any other treatments?
Replies to "At about 1 year out from my knee replacement, I started to develop severe loss of..."
Good evening, @pistons899004. Thanks, @sueinmn, for the introduction. I think I
I understand your message and have a good memory of my most recent TKR in 2022. MUA, "manipulation under anesthesia," may be a purposeful and effective solution. My Yoga teacher just had a post-surgery MUA for her right side TKR. She, too, had similar problems with range of motion. I also think she exercised too hard to be able to return to our Yoga sessions.
Another option would be MFR, Myofascial Release Therapy. My first TKR about ten years ago ended up the same way because of scar tissue. I lived on a 6,000-foot mountain with no medical support besides the firemen and a young lawyer with prior education in PT. After moving to flat sea level MN, I began MFR, and it took about 12 sessions to remove the scar tissue. Since then, I have had no pain or discomfort. Just for the record, my range of motion returned to 120. By the way, it is suggested that you have a non-invasive MUA about three months after your TKR.
Hopefully, your surgeon will be able to determine your best option for challeging that 90-degree level. I know it must be frustrating to faithfully continue exercises and daily activities without noticing increased post-surgery healing.
Would you please let us know what you decide to do in your pursuit of continued healing?
May you be safe, protected, and free from inner and outer harm.
Chris
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Welcome to Connect. I hope someone here can answer your question. I have had hip replacements but still babying my knees.
@artscaping do you have anything to say about this?
Sue