Thank you for saying this. I am 5.5 weeks out of my TKR and couldn't function without the Oxycodone. They are essential to PT and actually just getting around the house. I am doing well- 120 flexion and make steady progress. I too NEED the pain meds and have no interest in staying on them afterwards. They make me itch!!!

Agree, 100%. My ortho expected me to be off all pain meds by week 5 and told me he’s never had someone need so much (which is bullsh**). I was still having 8-10 level of pain at times and forget going to therapy without. Fortunately I am well established with my PCP who agreed to manage my needs going forward. I am 21 weeks post TKR on the left and still need to medicate occasionally. My last refill of oxycodone 5 mg was written on Nov 16 for 1 every 8 as needed. I still have some left as most days I rely on ibuprofen (still have to take this routinely at least 600mg twice a day). But when I do more I need more. I have had multiple ortho procedures (3 foot and both shoulders) and have no problem getting off the pain meds eventually. My PCP knows this. Personally? I don’t care for them as they (pain pills) have their downside. I have to take a Vistaril with them to avoid nausea and the Vistaril makes me tired. But, having said that, the pain is worse. I have to have the right knee done but before that I need to have bilateral CMC arthroplasty (thumb joint) and therefore expect I will be on/off the Oxy for the next year.