i had knee replacement in my right knee Feb 21st. I did PT for about six weeks until the therapist said there was nothing more he could do and I was $500 away from my Medicare ceiling. He was afraid I may need manual adjustment because my ROM was only 98 and would need additional therapy.
I decided I needed more exercise so I signed up with a personal trainer today.
It was the best thing I've done in forever. She said I was surprisingly strong but very tight muscles. My new knee performed very well. Rowing, biking (can't go all around...yet) squats, a dance moves, I'm amazed.
So, with that said, all things are good and it looks like the titanium knee is doing its thing, I'm starting to love it. I'm a little sore right now but,that's
expected.
To quote Jimmy Valvano " Don't give up, don't ever give up."
Did you call Medicare. I checked before my surgery and found out that Medicare will pay for 60 PT appointments. Your supplemental insurance will cover any further appointments. I went to PT for 12 weeks. The first four weeks were 3X week the last eight weeks were 2X week. You need to get some clarification about your PT.
I admire that you are using a personal trainer. I don't have any experience with personal trainers. Please, make sure that the trainer has a background in anatomy and is able to follow what a PT would do.
I am delighted that things are going well for you.
Ellen
Hi, Keep working hard and dedicated. It will come. Way to get a personal trainer. Can you get to a swimming pool and do water therapy? It was a game changer for me. Last summer I had bilateral knee replacement and all is well now .i ride the stationary bike six days a week. It will get better for you. 👍🏻
Thanks. We have no pool nearby😪
That's great! Great idea to get a trainer too! When things fall into place, which they do, it's a wonderful experience...there will be no stopping you now! 😊
Yes, pool was key for my rehab, still is! Made big difference!
That's all good news! I agree . . improvement often comes several months after the operation, provided one keeps going! If you give up, and accept a low rom, then obviously you are going to be stuck with it. it took me ages to get the rom I needed, but now Im there I don't need to do anything to keep it that way. . . just normal life! I remember when I thought I would never get to 90, let alone the 135 I have now!
Very encouraging! I've been worrying about my next follow up where we will decide on whether or not I'll need manipulation ; I'll be 12.5 weeks post op then (June 23), and I've been worrying I'll need to decide then & there (I'm in a very remote town, not physical therapy), but have been feeling I can wait to decide after following others discussions.
Thank you for sharing your experience, Duckfan!
How long did it take to reach 135?
I wish I had kept a diary! It was quite a long time. . it suddenly improved from one day to the next when the swelling finally went down. I would say probably between six and nine months, but it is difficult to be sure now. there comes a day when you realise you haven't actually worked out how many weeks have passed since the operation, when the knee is no longer your main concern 24 hours a day! it's a great day!!!!
It's not really that important . . I went a few times, but it was so much hassle getting changed, and driving there and back etc. . it can be done without the pool, no problem.! the warm water is very nice though!
Sometimes I forget about the knee and yes it will be a great day. I'm so encouraged with the 6-9 month statement. Gives me hope. Last time I checked I was at 105.