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Uncertain about TKR Surgery
I am 76 and have osteoarthritis in my lower back and both knees. I manage well though my orthopaedic surgeon recommends tkr for both legs as I have no cartilage left in either knee. Pain on a 1-5 scale is maybe 2/3 and I take Arcoxia when I have bad days. I also have a baker's cyst behind left knee. I have read so many horror stories about the surgery I wonder if I'm better off just living with my current limitations rather than putting myself through all the pain of post-surgery. Any thoughts?
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I had my left knee replacement 5 years ago. No problems. So much depends on your orthopedic surgeon. I did a lot of research prior and talked to a number of his former patients and checked out his infection rates. Planning for post surgery is quite important too. You want a surgeon that has done many, many, many of these procedures
Good luck. Let us know what happens. If you go back to the main heading of bones joints & muscles you will see a number of sub heading. Should be lots for you there.
Only you know when your quality of life demands a change.
My pain was way more than 3 when I decided to have tkr on my right knee. I could no longer do what I wanted and my pain level was more like 6 and constant.
I researched to get an experienced surgeon and had no complications. But I am still shocked at the amount of pain and work that it required on my part. Progress is very slow and takes a lot of patience. I am 4 months out and able to go up and down stairs and all daily activities. I still have pain sometimes and at night. I'm almost 73. I would be very limited if I had not had it done. I felt that I had to do it. You will know when and if it's time. Best wishes to you!
@cjh53 - thanks for the advice