osteoporosis in knee

Posted by carlapat @carlapat, Aug 19 8:56am

I'm 81 years old and have osteoporosis in knee, very painful, considering knee replacement but concerned about age and recovery and not looking forward to having metal in me. I'm weak in the knees and know I need to do exercises, I have weights but don't know how to use them--will they help? I would like to try holistic medicine or something else before surgery. Any advice? this really limits my physical ability (love to walk--but painful--don't go far). thanks for any advice or experience with this condition.

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windyshores | @windyshores | Aug 19 9:25am

@carlspat do you have osteoarthritis or osteoporosis in your knee? Osteoporosis is not painful and surgery is often not possible with poor bone density so it sounds like it might be osteoarthritis. Sorry you are suffering!

Teresa, Volunteer Mentor | @hopeful33250 | Aug 19 10:21am

Hello @carlapat and welcome to Mayo Connect. I see that @windyshores has already responded to your post. I'm wondering as well, if you have osteoarthritis or osteoporosis. They are two different diagnoses.

As you are asking about exercises, I'm wondering if have you been referred for physical therapy (PT)? Usually, PT is recommended prior to knee replacement. Has this been recommended for you?

I look forward to hearing from you again with a little more information. Will you continue to post about this decision?