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Stairs after TKR (1 side, 72 yrs old)
Hi. I am bone on bone, one spur, arthritis in one knee for yrs. Stairs are hard for me. Going up is easier than going down and can only do good leg down/bad leg up.
We are staying at a house that is raised up with parking, etc. underneath. (Post hurricane sandy construction).
13-14 exterior steps to entrance of house.
The place (a rental) has a full bath on the main floor with all bedrooms up a flight. We’re bringing a bed down to main floor for post-surgery.
Questions:
1. How painful/hard to climb the outside stairs when I leave the hospital?
2. Would it be better to extend hospital stay to 2-3 days?
3. How long before I should be able to navigate the outside stairs for rehab/walks/outings as a passenger?
4. How long before I can sleep upstairs in a bedroom (there’s a second bathroom upstairs)
Am anxious about pain/strength/getting around.
Thanks
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I am really sorry to hear that. I had a friend recommend it and the surgeon was happy to give me the order. Happily I am still in PT as I am preparing for my next knee, which could be as soon as tomorrow (if there is a cancellation). Otherwise in January. I am strong and ready!
Best wishes for smooth sailing thru surgery! It is a rough ride, but somehow we all make it! Stay ahead of the pain, use an ice machine, do your exercises, and I hope you have help! My husband was so good to me while recuperating!
Sounds like a bad surgeon, or at a minimum, bad advice.
I'm 77 and just had a total knee replacement on my right leg. I'm 5'10" 165 pounds and before surgery worked out twice a week with a trainer. Walked a lot. So, pretty good shape.
I live in a cottage with three steps from the exterior to the porch and front door. I had to have assistance getting up the three steps...big strong neighbor helped my caregiver when I returned home immediately after surgery. (You didn't indicate what kind of post surgery care giving you would have.)
I cannot fathom a same-day return from surgery and climbing up the stairway as you describe. Second, I don't believe the arrangement you describe would be good for your recovery as the muscles, tendons and all connective tissue will have been disturbed and will be healing...and then there's the staples in your skin, bandages, etc.
I'd look for a one-floor Air BNB for at least two weeks.