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Scar tissue after knee replacement
I had knee replacement surgery 6 weeks ago . Through PT I have been working on breaking up the scar tissue only for it to regrow by the time I get back to PT two days later. I have been massaging at home, using a hand held massager and roller. It is painful and swollen. I am getting very disheartened. Any suggestions as to what else I can do. Has anyone had laser treatments to break up scar tissue? Were they effective?
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I think getting a second opinion is a great idea. Do you have specific names and reputations of other surgeons? Where I live (Boston) there are plenty that specialize in "revisions." Try not to worry about maybes. I think I know how you feel; I'm getting a second opinion from another PT today myself.
I am in Boston right now but live in California, I have a great friend that lives here and I visit her every fall. She actually lives on Martha’s Vineyard but we have Boston friends. Would you be willing to share your doctors name? He may be a resource of a similar doctor in my area. It is not out of the question for me to consider seeking him for a second opinion. Thank you so much.
I got ahead of myself when I read your reply. I see now you indicated a PT not a doctor. Needed another cup of coffe I guess 😊
If you're in Boston and have time for a second opinion here, go to The New England Baptist hospital! (I did not and I regret it and will go there if I switch doctors or have my other knee done). They are the gold standard for orthopedic care, moreso than even MassGeneral or the Brigham … my surgeon is Dr. Andrew Ayers in Peabody, but I can't stand Salem Hospital so won't have any more surgeries by him.
Quad strength is important. Have you access to any kind of a stationary bike? I finally brought one for home from amazon. It takes awhile to make full rotation but eventually after warming up I can go all the way. I also have a medicine ball and I lay on my back, put heels on ball and draw legs to chest for as long as I decide, both good for quads and are possible with our limitations.
I was also told to always step down with bad leg and up with good leg, but you might have figured that through the pain if you do the opposite . Have you sought a revision doctor. Have you been told your issue is scar tissue.
I live in Lacey Washington and I go the Olympia Orthopedic for my knees. Had my carpel tunnel done there too. Suppose to get a injection in my right knee of a series of three shots due to my arthritis in right knee now. Not interested in a right knee replacement at this time. Thanks.
Good luck with your Euflexxa shots. Did not work for me but I know two people who say it changed their lives.
What are the euflexxa shots
I assume those are the shots you are getting. It is a hyaluronanic acid. It is a shot given in three doses. You might be getting it under another name.
This could be a blessing for you, forcing you to seek out other opinions. I so wish I had gotten a second or third opinion on a different surgery. Instead I went to a local general surgeon in a small town. What was I thinking? Not much. I didn't realize how important it was to research reviews and reputation when picking a surgeon. Sometimes that means getting on a waiting list. For me after my botched surgery I found a real expert, who specializes in one procedure to get me back together right. He was a 2 1/2 hour drive away. The hospital at this distance required my husband to get a hotel room, but so worth it!
Also good for you for trusting your instincts. I have learned how important that is.