Knee Infection* Cakes 2114 - Knee Recovery Thread

[Cakes2114]

@Cakes2114 .... sorry to hear that you're still struggling with pain in your knee. Given the number of surgeries you've had on that knee, it probably will take a bit longer than normal for things to stabilize and be more comfortable for you.

As you may know, Meloxicam is an NSAID that is prescribed for arthritis, but it would work on a knee that's had a replacement also. Once your knee is replaced, there is no more arthritis. But there still are plenty of soft tissue areas that can bring the type of pain you're describing.

All NSAIDs have the risk of certain side effects, especially if taken long term or in higher doses. The number one side effect includes a range of gastric issues to include the possibility of bleeding. So, it usually isn't a good idea to be on them long term. So your surgeon is wise to take you off Meloxicam as soon as possible.

Have you tried Extra Strength Tylenol taken on a set schedule? Many times it can do a great job relieving pain after surgery. You take 2 500mg tablets (1000mg) at a time every 6 hours. It's important not to go over the maximum limit of acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) in any 24 hour period. Acetaminophen is included in many over-the-counter medications so if you take something for colds, sinus, congestion, or allergies, be sure and count that in your daily total. You can find out how much acetaminophen is in any of these products from the label.

Another possible suggestion that you could discuss with your surgeon (or your GP if your surgeon isn't willing to talk about additional pain relief medication) would be Tramadol. You can take Tramadol with the Tylenol at alternate times during the day for better pain management when Tylenol alone doesn't work. Once you get pain under control, you can use the Tramadol on an as-needed basis.

You mention that you're struggling to walk. What exactly is going on? Can you give me some more details? I'm wondering if the OneStep program might be able to help you. It's a gait-based app that provides specific exercises to ensure that you maintain a proper gait. Poor gait can cause a lot of problems. If you'd like to learn more about OneStep and how it might work for you, we're having a Webinar this coming Saturday to show people how the app works. It will feature one of the OneStep therapists as well as Dr. Sinha to answer any questions you might have. I think the sidebar ad to sign up will appear on the forum tomorrow so you can register to attend.

Thank you so much for this reply.

Extra Stregnth Tylenol sounds like a great option.
As for my gait since I also struggle with flexion and I am only at 90 degrees I simply do not walk correctly.
I am seeing the doctor on April 22. It is for the pain and stiffness. The doctor does not want to go back in because he feels I am prone to infection but I am struggling. And struggling more with the Meloxicam ending.

 

[Jamie]

You're correct that only having 90 degrees of flex would make a difference with your ability to walk properly. In the coming weeks and months, if you can do a lot of gentle bends and stretches on that knee, it may be possible to gain additional ROM. The OneStep therapists can work with you wherever you are, but you may want to do this on your own at your pace for a while to see how that goes. First order of business is to try and reduce any pain and swelling, though, and to keep inflammation at a minimum.