Connect
Week 3 post TKR
Good morning! I am looking for folks to share their experience of the third week post-TKR. The first two weeks were very hard but I feel like I've turned a corner in week 3. Flexion is 113 and extension is 0. Still using pain meds on a regular schedule. PT is getting less excruciating, sleeping positions easier, etc. I'm now pretty much on the cane only, using the walker only to get me out of the shower. Does this sound right to others? Are you about in the same place? Mostly I'm interested in if you are still using the meds. I still need them!
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Joint Replacements Support Group.
Connect
@amytro : it’s been a while, but I do remember some specifics about my TKR recovery. I was off opioids totally within 9 days (5 days as scheduled every 4 to 5 hours, then tapering off). Also added some XS tylenol in the beginning. Another 6 days of tylenol (which unfortunately does not seem to help) since I was still ordered to take aspirin for 14 days after surgery, then aleve and ice. I probably did get off the oxycodone too soon, but I simply can’t deal with the constipation..... In-home PT 3 times, every 3rd day, then outpatient PT, about every 7 to 10 days, 3 sets of 20+ minute exercises on my own each day for 5 weeks, then reducing to twice a day until 8 weeks, now still some basic stretches etc. every day. Off walker 4th day, off cane within 8 days. Since I did not get full extension for a long time, my PT limited my outside walking in order not to cause back/hip problems, but I was able to walk 1/2 mile (with cane handy, but not using) on the 8th day after surgery. Lots of strength and flexibility exercises in an indoor pool at week 4, major factor in reducing pain and increasing ROM in knee. Highly recommend that, if you have access!. Your progress sounds really good, and I am glad that your pain is subsiding. Time is a good healer!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 Reactions"I probably did get off the oxycodone too soon, but I simply can’t deal with the constipation....." This was a problem for me as well post surgery but when i started using prescribed Polyethylene Glycol 3350, NF powder for oral solution, had no more issues when taking oxycodone....
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsHi I had knee replacement 6 days ago. Been managing pain fairly well except when I go from a lying position to try to stand. Once I start to lower my leg to floor i start to get extreme pain below knee on front of leg. If I can hold out and stand for 1-2 min I can start to walk and pain seems to subside. It feels like leg is going to explode. I have tried several different things but not much success don’t know what to do. Anyone had any similar issues
Hi! I am not quite three weeks post-TKR. I’ve been fortunate to not suffer with extreme pain, mostly manageable with four 325 Tylenol daily. I did take a small amount of Tramadol at nighttime the first week. While my PT has been progressing well, (full flexion and 111 degree ROM), I struggle with staying positive about long term outcomes. I have such stiffness and of course swelling. I know it will take time, but quite anxious. My best to all of you!
I am now almost 13 weeks TKR. I too struggled with stiffness, swelling and lack of sleep. I can tell you it does get better. Keep icing and moving. Do your exercises and you will be amazed that all of a sudden you are able to do things without thinking about them. I was discouraged at times especially with the stiffness. It still gets stiff but not as often and once I get going the stiffness lessens. I know 3 months seems like forever but you will be surprised. I know I am! Good luck and keep moving!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThank you nancyjw for your words of encouragement. Just what I needed!
??? I’m skipping though recent posts, this came up pretty much unconnected. What am I missing here? Without having to read endless previous posts? Sounds like some sort of private drug ad, doesn’t it? Again, no idea, no context, but reads weird.
I agree! Totally not necessary or related to my reply to stp258.
Thank you @ellerbracke and @nancyjw. That was an odd post and I presume misplaced. It has been deleted. When you see such posts, please feel free to click the Report button in the bottom right corner of the post. This brings it to the attention of the moderating team as high priority.
Together we keep the community safe.
Dear Amytro, sounds like flexion and extension
are excellent. Also, your use of the cane and walker
were about where I was .I didn’t use “meds “
during the day. I used a combination of Tylenol
And Motrin during the day.I reserved the hydrocodone only at night in addition to Tylenol and
Motrin .I also took 5 mg Ambien . It’s so critical to
get a good nights sleep. Overall sounds like you’re right on track
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction