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Going Through TKR Post Op day 3, Is it worth having done?
Joint Replacements | Last Active: Jan 1 8:37pm | Replies (50)Comment receiving replies
I too totally took the recommended pain meds around the clock, with ice, elevation and the exercises.
Initially:
Extra strength Tylenol 1000mg3x/day
Celebrex 200mg twice a day
Oxycodone 5mg, 1-2 tablets every 3 hours for pain over a 5 or 6 level.
I only took 1 Oxycodone at a time, but took it every 3 hours initially. I never had taken that much medication in my life, and they gave me a med for my upset stomach ( as well as a stool softener). It was all very helpful and I don’t recall horrible pain. I used an ice machine too, which helped more than pain meds imo.
I did need an Oxycodone an hour before physical therapy for sure though. I made a spread sheet to write down times, as I was very concerned NOT to become a druggie.
I was fortunate that my surgical team was experienced in pain control, and did renew the Oxy when the time came as I progressed in physical therapy. I did need an MUA at 11 weeks, despite my adherence to the PT plan and home exercises. I must just develop scar tissue more than most.
I am 7 months out now and it’s work. I took a few days off of my home routine over the holidays and lost 10* of flexion. I still have to take Ibuprofen every morning and sometimes 2 more times-during the day. Sometimes some Tylenol as well. I do routine stretches, weights, stationary bike, heel slides… daily. Hate it. But I regress if I don’t. Stairs going down are still a big PIA.
I can hike/walk greatly, up to 15,000 steps/day. My joint will be warm after that kind of activity. 1-3* more than other knee!
It’s not a surgery for sissies!
Replies to "I too totally took the recommended pain meds around the clock, with ice, elevation and the..."
I’m 2 weeks out from total knee revision. 17 years after my initial total knee replacement. The initial replacement was horrible. Didn’t start physical therapy for 2 weeks post op. Took 6 months of therapy to get full range. Before the revision I was given exercises to do for 3 weeks before surgery. So different from the original replacement. I had physical therapy next afternoon after surgery. Then twice weekly. I am at 120 degrees flexi and 0 degrees flat. I alternated Ibuprofen and Tylenol around the clock. Took Oxycodone the first week when the pain was so horrible. The Oxy gave me a very short period of relief and even with stool softeners the constipation was a big issue. I stopped the Oxy because I didn’t feel the little bit of relief was worth it. Seeing my surgeon tomorrow for follow up. I will ask if there is another pain med I can try. It’s been rough at times. I just try moving around and things to get my mind off the pain when it’s so bad. I knew going into it it would be painful. At times I wanted to cry. I lose t the first week with my son and his wife. They were great but I wanted to come home so I could get up at night when I’m hurting and not worry about waking them up. I hope things get better for you soon. It is worth the pain and agony. Just look forward to Spring when you can get out and enjoy that new knee.
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No it is not for sissies! but hang in there. I had both done four months apart so I know the pain, PT pain, sleepless nights, the stiffness and radiating pain where you cannot get comfortable and you can't sleep on your side. Once you get through this fire swamp of recovery, you will be so glad you did it. I do aqua aerobics a few times a week and that strengthened my legs. I can go up and down stairs and walk all day without pain. Don't loose heart. You will get there and it will be great.