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Climbing Stairs After TKR

Joint Replacements | Last Active: Aug 22, 2022 | Replies (63)

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@mspartha

Can someone, female 80 yrs, who had TKR of one leg 2 weeks ago, begin climbing stairs with the help of a physio, or defer it for at least 4 weeks from surgery?
Blood clots (like in a concussion) are spreading around the thigh near the operated area. Any treatment needed or will these go away after some time?

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Replies to "Can someone, female 80 yrs, who had TKR of one leg 2 weeks ago, begin climbing..."

Good evening @mspartha and a big welcome to Connect. Well, I am 80 years old and had a TKR last year. I am concerned about you and therefore have a couple of questions. Have you discussed this with your surgeon? Did you have a meeting with your PT pre or post-surgery?

Here is what worked for me. Before doing any PT or stair climbing, I would want a clear answer about the blood clots as well as a PT schedule that included how to get ready to climb stairs.

Please note that as you climb up the stairs you should be going one step at a time. In other words, step up to the next level with your non -TKR leg. Then holding on to the railing, lift your TKR leg up to the same level. Steady yourself and rest a minute. Make sure you are sturdy and then repeat for the next step. Even more important is your preparation for going downstairs. Remember that going down is more strain on your TKR knee as it must support your entire body for a short period of time.

@mspartha, remember.....one step at a time so that you end with both feet on the step. Make sure your are steady before beginning the next step. How does that sound? Doable?

Another thought for the day........I recall that we have a tendency to want to beat some imaginary record and can end up doing too much too soon. If I were going to give you a gift, it would be to remember to ice that knee and elevate it after any exercise.

Are you sleeping well?

May you be safe, protected, and free from inner and outer harm.
Chris

Mr Trout
Many thanks for your helpful suggestions. I appreciate your detailed advice on climbing steps.
My wife had the TKR. The surgeon cautioned against climbing stairs for one month post-surgery. The physio is confident it can be done straightway.