Connect
Problem with TKR Medications
I had a single tkr 6.5 weeks ago. The opioids made me very ill. The doctor was not willing to go with Journavax (or with Iovera prior to surgery) even if I was willing to pay out of pocket. At four weeks post TKR I had Melena from the NSAIDS I was prescribed. I was hospitalized for three days, Since hospitalization I have been extremely weak. On the upside, at my 6 week exam my flexion was 140 and extension 0. My doctor excused me from further outpatient PT and said I can resume it later when I am stronger if I want to.
Eventually I will need to have the other knee done. This surgeon was brilliant and the knee itself was great, but I am not happy with his medication protocols and his inflexibility with regard to these. What are my options? Has anyone else not been able to tolerate opioids and/or NSAIDS? What was done for you?
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Joint Replacements Support Group.
Connect
My RTKR was October 1st. I had asked my surgeon about Journavax instead of oxycodone and he told me that it was too new for him to recommend as a first pick. But that was six months ago and many have now had good experiences with Journavax.
You really like the surgeon otherwise. So check in with her again and see if her view has changed.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI had two TKRs (Jan ‘23 and Jan ‘24). I didn’t have problems with the opioids but simply don’t like taking pharmaceuticals. I took the opioids the first few days and then quickly replaced them (weaning process) with cannabis gummies (I live in a legal state).
Worked for me and several other folks I know. Good luck to you. Keep working and stretching. I found they will stiffen up from time to time from weather, physical activity, inactivity, etc. I stretch every night before bedtime and it sure seems to help.