16wks post TKR tomorrow.
Still some tightness and discomfort in most things i do but can walk up and down stairs without a stick. Walk for about 3km at a time. No stick but tightness and discomfort above the knee
Bend varies but about 130+ on a good day
My problem is straightening. I walk without a limp and i think it's almost straight but when i stand Up with equal weight on both legs i can see the line of op leg sticks out slightly.
It also doesn't touch the floor as the other leg does
when sitting on the floor legs stretched out in front.
I'm worried it will never straighten fully
I think that walking 3km after only 16 weeks post TKR is a bit too much.
It can easily take up to 6 months after surgery before the benefits can be realised.
It should straighten in time, but you really should not push yourself this hard at this stage.
Hello Suzi,
I am 5 weeks post op yesterday and I had been focussing on the bend and I think I can get around 110 deg now. I had been neglecting the straightening though and like you the new knee sticks out further than the other. I have really focussed on the straightening the last 2 weeks and it does give some relief. I have found that when you do the exercises with you legs on the floor in front of you pushing down with your hand will make it go further. It does'nt hurt its just a bit tight. I have also found that doeing calf raises or standing on your tip toes and holding the pose helps.
I am sure it will improve with time.
Mike
Thanks Mike - I'll try those. Ill try anything as I'm getting seriously worried. It's like having a wooden leg! I see the surgeon at the end of March so I'm giving myself until then to keep trying and not give up.