What to expect after TKR-the real deal!

I had TKR 12/15 and I am currently 3 weeks post surgery. The first 3 days were easy. Days 4-8 were very, very painful. By the mid second week pain was less intense. Post PT pain is hard for the first few visits, but does get better. I iced religiously thru out using a polar ice machine and alternating with xl gel packs. I still ice after PT and 4-5 times daily, making sure I elevate. Meds are strong and some nauseating. Because to eat well. I had redness on my inner knee so back on antibiotics and doing better now. I had the Iovera injections 7 weeks prior to surgery. It cryogenically freezes nerves supporting the knee. Did not hurt and not sure how effective it was in reducing pain since I have nothing to compare it to. Make no mistake - be prepared for pain and poor sleep. Tried to limit the meds but not during the worst pain days and prior to PT. Taking Tramadol not Oxy now but used Oxy the first week, especially once the surgery meds wore off. Don’t be a hero and do your PT. Bending your knee back is the hardest part. Get a leg pillow to elevate, or strap with loops, a good walker and cane that can stand alone and has a second handle. I already have tall toilets. Be sure you have support like grab bars to help you up initially. Good luck. I have to get the second knee done too later in the year.