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← Return to TKR. Anxiety issues
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nme1985, I’m 68 and I’ve had 2 TKRs -1 in Jan 23, 1 in Jan 24. It’s definitely no fun but it is just as definitely worthwhile imo.
Your job is, 1. Be Positive! Our brain “hears” all our doubts, I believe and that simply cannot help our recovery. Say positive reinforcing things instead. 2. Do the PT like a madman! My mom was in her late 70s (former orthopedic nurse) when she had her TKR and told me (we knew I was headed for one) to do MORE than they ask. Do 12 reps if they ask for 10….that sort of thing.
Your attitude and focus on the work - more than they suggest! - is the key. You can do this and make it better.
I just restarted yoga after a 4 yr break because of the pain. It’s making a huge difference.
If you don’t do the work it will be a terrible result. My surgeon is a friend and he told me that is huge. It hurts, no lie, but it will get better.
Last comment is to choose a surgeon who SPECIALIZES in TKRs. Many can perform one but choose someone who makes that a focus of his/her practice.
Good luck and stop worrying. It’s not fun - neither is the near constant pain you have now - but you can make it better with your attitude.
Replies to "nme1985, I’m 68 and I’ve had 2 TKRs -1 in Jan 23, 1 in Jan 24...."
Excellent advice! I would add to get as strong as you can manage before the surgery. It will help later.
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Thank you so much for your encouragement. I too am surrounded by medical people. My son-in-law is an orthopedic surgeon and he recommended a knee specialist at Rothman in Philadelphia. I told my son-in-law he is coming to my house every day to check my wound. Laugh out loud they live two blocks from me thank God...we try to have a sense of humor but deep down I am filled with anxiety. I am now in Pilates two days a week PT two days a week and I lift weights every day. I am working like a wild woman to strengthen my quads. I plan to get a PT to come to my house hopefully for three weeks because we have a gym in our building… if I can have her every day I will! If not I will be down in that gym! Hearing you reinforce my thoughts makes me feel so much better. My biggest fear is infection at the site. I know so many people with positive results and your case just makes me a little stronger to take a deep breath and be positive. I have never had.surgery or been in the hospital except for my kids. The fear.of the unknown and not being in control is daunting. Thank you for your kind words and encouragement. Nina