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8 weeks out
I’m 8 weeks out of a total knee replacement. Actually almost 9 weeks. I am still in pt for the rest of the month, but my question is this: Am I supposed to feel this tired all the time? I’m 69, almost 70, and before the surgery I had a good amount of energy. Apparently, my bone was “soft” even though my bone density came back normal, and my surgeon had to anchor in the knee. I’m also mildly anemic. I just don’t know if what I’m feeling is “normal,” or if I’m just becoming very impatient. Thanks in advance for any responses.
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It's still early. I am 62 and you will feel more tired. You have a lot of stuff done and a TKR is pretty invasive. It's taking more and more strength to do the things that you need to do for a full recovery. It does get better. Also if you are taking any pain meds or anything else (you didn't mention) that will add to the being tired. I'm 8 months out and still have soreness and stiffness as well as more issues now with my lower back. It takes 6 months to a year for things to settle out and get back to feeling normal. I'm thinking mine will be a year and that is what I'm hoping and praying for. As you progress you will look back and you won't believe where you have been and how far you have come but in that in-between time it's easy to get discouraged and wonder if you will ever be the same. It's different with a new normal but in the end will be glad you did it. Take care and know you are doing great...
I am 66 years old and I had TKR for my right knee almost a year ago. Yes, you will feel fatigued for several months; that is normal. Your body is recovering from major surgery! Of course, everyone's recovery is different, but it took at least 5 months before I felt my energy was returning. Hang in there!
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2 ReactionsHi folks
I am 61 and am 8 weeks out from tkr. I still have pain on inside and outside of the knee. I am so fatigued as well. I am trying to eat well and increase my protein as I heard that helps with fatigue. I find after small walks or outings I have to lay down.
I too hope this lifts soon as it is frustrating having to rest so much. I hope you will start to feel better soon. Take care 😊
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1 ReactionI’m 4 months out from a bilateral knee replacement and at this point I am completing regretting my decision. I’ve had so many issues with the latest being told my right leg is shorter than my left. Praying that time will heal all this.
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1 ReactionHey Mick,
I'm 68 y/o and had both knees replaced last year. I worked on my fitness for one year prior to surgery, and I'm a gym rat. That said, it's not uncommon for people like us, pushing 70, to get fatigued from the post-op exercises. I don't know your situation, but would venture that some tiredness is good, meaning that you are doing the rehab.
Joe
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1 ReactionStill tired here. More tired when I take pain or muscle relaxer meds
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1 ReactionThanks, Joe. Makes me feel better. I’m a cancer survivor, so my immune system is compromised by treatment, but I’m here thank God! Yes, I’m used to go go go, but this has significantly slowed me down, but I hope to be back soon!
From your post and others that I’m reading, the tiredness must be part of the process for healing. While frustrating, I forget sometimes that this was major surgery. Take care and keep healing!
Good luck Mick. all the best to you! Joe