Anyone here ever had a total knee replacement? I'm going to have one soon & I just wondered what others' experiences were like.

Barb

Not me, Barb, but

I've heard from friend who have had them that being faithful to do the PT afterwards is critical to getting the outcome you want.

I have about 5 friends that had it done, including one that did both knees at one time. All did very well except for the one with the double. Personally I think her attitude is what did her in because she was expecting the worst, so she got the worst. My hubby needs both done but his ortho is waiting until he can't walk at all anymore since the knees have a limited lifespan. I hope that you have a wonderful experience and that you heal quickly.

No personal experience, Barb, but all the best to you for a successful procedure

Thank you all for the good thoughts. I know that the outcome depends on attitude and getting the proper therapy. Ana, hope your hubby gets one soon - from what I've read, an artificial knee should last at least 20 years. It'll be worth it eventually to be able to walk without severe pain.

Barb, I've had both total knee replacements and it's the best thing I've ever done. No pain at all anymore and I got complete knee function back. But remember you get out of it what you put in in attitude and therapy. Good luck I think you'll be glad you did it. I sure was.

Thank you so much, Gail. I'm so happy to hear about a good result. Bless you,
Barb

I am an OR nurse, and I couldn't agree more with the comments about PT and attitude. I would add that it is also an opportunity to make changes in lifestyle for the better. It takes about two weeks to entrench new habits, and this will be an opportune time as so many things that are the "norm" will be disrupted for a while. Use the opportunity to ingrain new, more healthy habits.

You will almost certainly be given a set of home exercises; I am not going to pretend their easy but they really are the key to recovery.

Best of luck

Cari.

Thanks Cari, Orfin & everyone. I know it's not going to be easy, but I'm looking forward to getting it done. It'll probably be harder for me than usual because I've had a stroke, which makes my left arm & leg very weak. But I AM going to do it!

You'll do great!

Barb. Do those exercises and I'm sure you will have a great outcome.

Barb