I'm sorry you have been suffering with pain after your knee replacement. Even the most meticulous surgery can cause unanticipated changes in our body mechanics. Like you, I found most surgeons to be uninterested in addressing the issue. Once the wound is healed and the implant is solid, quite a few feel their job is done - even when the patient is still suffering. Unfortunately that is because the surgeon is paid by insurance to operate. Some go the extra step, others are constrained by their practice policies or insurance companies, we just never know the "back story."

Also, there are many kinds and skill levels of physical therapists and therapy centers. Many seem to be "cookie cutter" clinics - with the minimum required number of actual certified therapists, and the remainder are physical therapy assistants, who simply supervise a set list of exercises that is their protocol for for each surgery or injury. Again, this may be due to how they are paid, and the rules governing numbers of sessions, etc.

Your idea of visiting a rehab specialist sounds just right to me. My best experiences were with a rehabilitation therapist associated with a center that handled complex cases - limb loss, traumatic injury, multiple surgeries, etc.

This was done on referral from my ortho doc, and covered by insurance due to "failed traditional therapy." It involved an extensive evaluation of alignment, gait, strength, flexibility and my goals. Then a custom program was set up including land and water therapy and extensive at-home exercise routine. It took many months, but the hip, back, neck & leg pain from my badly misaligned body was finally controlled.

May I suggest that you approach your surgeon with this request, and if they turn you down, ask your primary provider? People can share their stories and experiences on Mayo Connect, but at the end of the day you need to become your own best advocate.

Can you locate a rehab center or practice near you?
Sue

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