TKR out 12 weeks, now back aches probably due to arthritis

Posted by kneenee @kneenee, Jan 5 3:55pm

So, hoping to get back to gym, yoga...maybe personal trainer for rest of body and hopefully back pain help. Still not able to do stairs and doubt I can get down on my mat, but must be some exercises I can do to help myself, back and rest of body? Anyone recommend good back stretching exercises?

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@kneenee I'm not surprised you don't feel ready to get down on a mat! 12 weeks is early days after joint replacement. I find it helpful to do the same sort of stretches one would do on a mat while lying on a firm bed.
Have you tried doing your customary stretches there?
Also, your entire way of walking has changed, so you will have pain in random places as your body adjusts. I found having the PT evaluate my gait, and give me specific hints to "straighten up and walk right" was very helpful.

Sue

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Thank you. I suppose I could do some yoga on my bed! I may work with trainer who is also yoga instructor at my gym and use the table. I very much miss yoga classes. Once I'm more confident walking I'll do chair yoga.

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I had 2 TKRs last year and no back issues. During recovery, my Nurse Navigator did often inquire about my back. I did not question why, as I had no issues. However reading your query, I now wonder about the back/knee connection.

My thoughts go to sharing your symptoms and plan with your physical therapist and nurse navigator/surgical PA in addition to your personal diagnosis.

Best wishes for your wellness.

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Yes, there is a knee/back connection. After my TKR I had serious sciatic nerve pain in my lower back/buttocks and legs. It took several weeks to calm down and recede. Your body has to adjust after the surgery. Be patient.

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Just after 12 weeks I had debilitating SIJ pain. I had been doing great and maybe pushing myself too hard. Suffered for over a month to the point of getting prescribed nerve blockers. Best action for me was slowing down on all PT and exercise. Now at 22 weeks I am able to walk2-3 or more miles, and water aerobics (life saver)plus stretches. Great flex but STILL cannot straighten my knee.
If your back is starting to hurt, please consider slowing your whole PT routine. Give your body a chance to adapt to your new gait.
Best of luck. I am 70, good health, and active.

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Just after 12 weeks I had debilitating SIJ pain. I had been doing great and maybe pushing myself too hard. Suffered for over a month to the point of getting prescribed nerve blockers. Best action for me was slowing down on all PT and exercise. Now at 22 weeks I am able to walk2-3 or more miles, and water aerobics (life saver) plus stretches. Great flex but STILL cannot straighten my knee.
If your back is starting to hurt, please consider slowing your whole PT routine. Give your body a chance to adapt to your new gait.
Best of luck. I am 70, good health, and active. There are tons of good stretches for Backs and SIJ. Notice you like yoga, Happy Baby, gives some relief. If not on mat, try your bed for stretches.

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