Delaying TKR

I used this group to be a sounding board before my double TKR. I found it to be both positive and supportive. I needed information and the last thing I needed when I was looking for answers was negativity. If I can help other people going through this experience, I am more than happy to be able to do it.

I have heard is a gel injection. What exactly is it? I’m going through the start of arthritis in both my knees. My meniscus is frayed and my Cartlidge is then it was very painful. I just had Cortizone shots in both knees. My right one is doing well, but my left one is still a problem I have heard of hyaluronic acid injections and not sure what they do or if they’re any good so I’m interested in what these gel shots are also just learning about everything I can do because eventually I’ll be going on bone hopefully not too soon in a few years at least good luck tomorrow.

I'm also currently wearing a knee brace, but this is the injection that I had almost two weeks ago:
https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/en/products-and-solutions/products/restorative-therapies/gel-one.html

Hi dna41,

I'm sorry for the pain you're going through. Been there.

I agree with Captain - to liberally paraphrase - the bark of a TKR is worse than the bite.

I had both knees replaced in 2022, 4 months apart at age 67. As Captain notes, this is a major surgery and the initial weeks, especially early rehab are hard. I had a diluted nerve block via catheter for the first two days after surgery to help with the worst of the pain. But my worst day in recovery/rehab was better than my best day pre-op. Each day in rehab the pain lessens until it's just gone.

If you haven't found a doc, I suggest finding someone in their mid/late 30s to their 40s, with a good med school/residency/fellowship pedigree, good references, and who have performed many, many procedures. These young Drs are very bright, current on the latest surgical techniques and tools, and they are ambitious and building a practice.

Just my opinion, but as soon as a person is bone on bone, in any joint, it's time for a replacement. Cortisone, gel, PRP shots are band aids. Of course, follow the recommendation of a trusted surgeon.

In addition to my knees, I've had my right hip replaced this March (2025) and just had my left shoulder replaced last week. The relief from the pre-op pain is incredible.

The key is doing all the rehab. I wish you all the best. Maybe you can replace your fear of surgery with faith in the process and the results of others. That's not a guarantee, but at least for me, the reward far outweighed the risk.

All the best.

Joe

Hi Lawanna,

Wow, a bilateral TKR at 85. You are a warrior! Good for you. You are an inspiration!

Joe

Hi Bill,

I don't believe that a good surgeon ever recommends surgery. My ortho surgeons have always given me explanations and options.

In my opinion, once a joint has no cartilage left and it affects a person's life, it's time for a joint replacement.

I think the statement that surgeons will always recommend surgery is mostly not true. It does happen though. 15 years ago I had sciatica. The surgeon did strongly recommend fusion and he was available within a week. His aggressive recommendation and immediate availability caused me to pull back and reconsider.

That was a lousy surgeon. Fortunately, their number is small. And 15 years later, the sciatica is gone and no vertebrae have been fused.

Your point stresses the importance of doing research and getting recommendations in surgeons. And when in doubt, step back and reconsider.

Thanks Bill.

Joe

I agree with Bill. A good surgeon will give you options but will not recommend surgery. At first, I was irritated by that, but finally decided it was my decision, not his. But he provided me with informtion to consider.

I am replying to the gel shots and the TKR posts...
I am 84 yo and have been dealing with knee pain for years with Tylenol (I bleed with NSAIDS) and PT without much relief. Last year I began using a recumbent exercise bike 30 min/6 times a week; it helped. A year ago I went for an consult with an orthopedic surgeon who said I had belateral OA end stage and recommended TKR on the knee that hurts. It was 4 mos after my husband died and I decided I was in no emotional place to have the surgery. Plus he said that he ususally uses regional first, then general anesthesia toward the end of surgery. I had concerns about cognitive decline post surgery. I opted out.
A year later I am seeing an excellent and personable surgeon who is not pushing me. I tried a cortisone shot but decided no after a diagnosis of osteoporosis. Am having hyaluronic shots, the third one next week. The first was very painful and slow injecting the medicine. For the second one the PA chose another site slightly higher and the whole thing was seamlessly painless. (No ultrasound guide, just looking at my w-rays.) Both shots were preceded by Lidocaine spray. I'm not sure what the results will be.....not immediate relief anyway! We'll see. If the shots don't work, well.........
I am not so worried about cognitive decline now altho I still forget 'things.' This surgeon uses regional anesthesia and something like twilight sleep 99.95 % of the time, he says. I trust him. I want to be able to walk the park trails with my dog and keep up with my friends when walking.
I am encouraged by by all the support and especially capboat and lawanna today.
Not sure what the outcome will be, but I feel quite positive and no longer fearful. Back on the recumbent bike and adding hand held weights for cardio.
Grateful for this group! Marian

Another really good point. I am encouraged by the suggestions I am getting.

Thank you for the good advice. I am so grateful for the quality responses I am receiving. I was told my knees are bone on bone so replacement is most likely necessary but I don't have extreme pain at this point and I'm thinking I should take more time to research. Again, thanks!