I have had bilateral total knee replacements that went well but after a terrible fall in May that resulted in fx wrist (had only been out of cast for 2 weeks prior for thumb joint replacement) a dislocated knee and fracture of the end of the femur I had to have a total revision of that knee four months later. The revision did not go as planned due to complete destruction of ligaments, muscles and tendons. The prosthesis the Dr was forced to use is a hinged prosthesis that will not allow it to hyperextend but it has changed my walking pattern. It also is known to not last as long as 'standard' prothesis. The Dr told me no running ect. ever. This seemed ok because with the severe osteoarthritis I am not overly athletic anyway. But I had a full life. My range of motion is excellent at 4 weeks post-op and the pain is controllable, however my gait has changed and I am finding my already treated depression to be worsening. I am concerned about proper healing, getting back a normal gait and having a normal activity leval. After having been through so multiple successful surgeries I just don't understand why this one is so much harder for me. My husband is my rock and has cared for me thru it all but I don't want him to worry...
Hello and welcome. I sympathise and I have gait and balance issues after bilateral tkr's in March 16. My surgeon says "things will improve over time". Unfortunately I have no answer for you except to say core strength and quadricept strength is very important to aid recovery. See your GP or a specialist for help with depression or a sports physio for exercises. X
What a load you are carrying. You have really been given alot to deal with and you will be suffering a grieving for what you used to be. Somehow though you do need to find a way through all of this and get your life back on track - you are so very lucky to have a good partner to support the process.
My MIL has had 3 knee reconstructions and 2 knee replacements and now has her leg fused straight. She was offered the hinge but was over all the intervention and declined to her eternal regret. Every thing is so very very hard for her now and she has paid the price health wise and mentally.
I am sure you will get through this as you are still in the early part of your recovery. It will take your body a while to adjust to a new way of being. Make sure you get help from everyone you can with support systems such as orthotics to make sure your body is as well aligned as possible. PT will help you break any bad posture habits too.
All the very best - my MIL would swap in a heart beat. Hind sight is a dreadful thing.
Thank you for the suggestions. I appreciate it.
I had not realized it but I do have a right and perhaps a need to grieve... I just need to get past it... and I Will! What you shared about your MIL makes me realize how fortunate I am. Thank you so much! Prayers for your MIL.
You are most welcome and thank you for letting me know this helped - I was afraid it may seem offensive to you.
I had terrible issues with my emotions in the initial few weeks. The fact that my very supportive husband was doing everything was a big thing for me to deal with - I hate being dependant.
Once everything starts to settle from this dreadfully invasive surgery I am sure the world will seem a brighter place.
Please be gentle on yourself and don't make excuses for how you feel we are allowed to feel hurt and vulnerable but we are not allowed to wallow in it too long
I have learned how to binge watch tv shows which has been a big help to zone out from the situation and let the healing happen.
Take care.