@rennie - All I can say about pain is that our individual experience with it is different for every person and even every situation.
When I had my first 2 total hip replacements, there was only discomfort afterward. 5 years later, when hip #1 was revised, my pain was off the charts, recovery slow and difficult. Later I learned that my tissue had been damaged by the original implant, the "metallosis" was actually heavy metal poisoning, and my thyroid was on overdrive!

When I had thumb surgery on each hand (a couple years apart) I took only 2 pain pills with one, the other required a refill. But, I have learned that with ortho surgeries ice, many hours a day for at least 2 months, plus alternating tylenol & ibuprofen, and elevation most of the time, control the pain quite well.

Also, my older daughter & I seem to have high pain tolerance, which my husband and younger daughter do not share. That is neither good nor bad, simply a difference between people.

Are you still using ice and elevation regularly? Have you tried alternating ibuprofen & tylenol to manage the pain?
Sue

Sue, thanks for your response and I know you are right. I am a big ice user. I can’t use NSAIDS until I am off blood thinners next week. That may help. I had 1.25 inches difference in leg length because of the valgus/contractures. Both legs are now straight and I am hoping with PT my knees, hips, and back can learn to play nice together.

I would not stay on narcotics for more than three weeks, maybe four - and only if your Dr. agrees. These are dangerous drugs and it's best to not get used to them. After using them, talk with your Dr. about finding a pain management regimen that works for you.

Hi,

I wonder if the build and/or surgery needs of the patient, and approach a surgeon uses makes a difference. I’m 9 weeks PO with a TKR and can pretty much do anything I want...knock on wood. It has been much easier recovery than my hip. My hip is getting close to 8 months and continues to challenge me.

As far as pain medication, I was given instructions to stagger the medication. I have a pretty high pain tolerance. Off narcotics by day 8 or less for each surgery.

Thank you! Oddly, my PT has me doing a ball roll and squats vs heel slides. I think he is trying to keep me from involving my back. At day 10 I had 97 flexion so it must be working. He had me rocking the bike on day 5. I’ve got this!