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← Return to TKR swelling 9 weeks post-op
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Thank you!
My first TKR was seven years ago. Same hospital, different surgeon (now retired). For the first surgery, they kept me in the hospital for five days and also used a CPM (continuous passive motion) machine, which I had to take home and use for a second week. This time they only kept me overnight (which was fine with me) and they no longer use the CPM's. I do wonder if not using the CPM contributed to my swelling, stiffness, and excessive scar tissue. They said not.
I have been doing my PT several times a day for ten weeks and attend an excellent PT clinic three times a week. I also use an upright bicycle. There has been little improvement in how my knee feels; it's still stiff, swollen, hot, and painful. And I'm still using a crutch. I do have full extension, but my flexion is 90 on my own and 110 with painful help. I have an appointment this week to see a therapist for myofascial release therapy. I'm looking forward to that because I've heard good things about MFR.
Replies to "Thank you! My first TKR was seven years ago. Same hospital, different surgeon (now retired). For..."
I had a partial knee replacement on my left knee in 2010. A CPM was used on my knee for the first two weeks. I think the CPM machine was of significant benefit in my healing after surgery. I was able to start physical therapy three days after the surgery . My knee healed quickly and my range of motion was 130° and 0° within 10 weeks after the surgery. That knee is rarely painful. My right knee is now bone on bone and has frequently been painful. I am not a candidate for TKR surgery due to heart problems. I find that if I do frequent gentle exercise ( 5-10 minutes each hour) the pain is minimized.
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I had the traditional knee replacement 10 1/2 years ago and yes, I really believe that my passive machine helped. They say they do not use it any because you can get the same results with PT. However, this may be true. The machine definitely helped. I think it’s because the insurance companies are too cheap and do not want to pay extra for this machine rental.
My left knee replacement was so painful and I cried so much while in the hospital and rehab and home that I swore I would never go through that again! I just had the Nano Knee on my right knee one month ago and I am out about 120° or more I can get my leg straight, doing well walking the dog Doing some activity. Nano Knee replacement is less invasive less PT and less healing time. However, it is still painful but not near as much as a traditional knee replacement. The only time I ache is at night and I bought an ice cooling machine and now I can sleep all night. Please look into the Nano Knee or Jiffy Knee. It might be the answer to the traditional knee replacement.