You’re going through what we all have so please know you’re not alone, but I found no solace in comparing my slow recuperation to others who healed quicker. I am very disappointed with both Mayo and PTs lack of support. Their attitude of “it takes time” without having prepared me with information about the possible outcomes is quite aggravating. I would not hesitate to get a 2nd or 3rd opinion on how to improve your outcomes. Best wishes!

I am sorry to hear about your swelling and flexion issues post surgery. I Just wanted to say that I had swelling for months after both of my knee replacements. From what I've read mild swelling is normal for up to six months. For my most recent knee replacement I had extreme swelling at first, which subsided gradually over 6 months. My sweet husband purchased lots of ice bags for me in a variety of styles, including jell packs. Plus, I had a wrap provided by the surgeon's office for my knee. It had two long jell packs which fit inside. I alternated frozen jell packs (in the knee wrap) which I could wear even while walking and when sitting. When sitting the wrap was augmented by another ice pack plunked on top. So, I iced just about round the clock. What helped me most for swelling was ice and elevation. I also did take anti-inflammatories, especially at night. Whenever I sat, I elevated my leg and kept the knee straight when elevated. My flexion was good from the start, which I know is different from your situation, but extension was not good. Even after three months of PT, I did not have full extension, and I'm not positive it's at full extension now, but it is functional. I can walk and climb hills and my leg is straight, unlike the bowed leg (from advanced arthritis in the knee), and arthritic knee I had before. For this 78 year old, it's good enough. Good luck to you. I hope, as in my case, swelling continues to subside. Give it some time and as others have said, don't force it.

I had a total hip replacement two years ago at the age of 75. I had met up with several people who said that they had also had thr and that it went very well for them. They said they came home from surgery and were able to walk right up the stairs - easy peasy. That was NOT my experience. I was not allowed to go up the stairs as my house is 250 years old with wonky stairs. The downstairs bathroom does not have a shower so I had to buy lots of different wipes in order to keep clean. My main base of operations was a tiny little bathroom on the ground floor of my very old house. Anyway, I did that for six weeks. When I had my 6 week checkup I came home and went right up the stairs to take a shower. Everyone's situation is different. My surgery was a little more complicated as I have a screw and a cable in the mix. I was told that my good hip will have to be done in 3-4 years. Well, at that time I will be 81. Not sure I will be able to handle it as well as that time. Doing what I can to avoid another surgery. I had to have a THR because I could not even walk up a very tiny incline. Couldn't even manage going up the driveway. Doing very much better now as my surgeon was excellent and the hospital was rated #4 in the country. I got lucky. Good luck to you and remember as you said everyone's experience is different.