Frustrated

[barb1]

On 3-25-08 had total knee replacement. Leg got strong = didn't need cane or walker after 6 weeks - but could not get bend in knee over 95 degrees. Also had trouble with tight hamstring. First week in July had hospital manipulation under anesthetic to break up scar tissue. Doctor said joint was completely movable and was a success. However, since then I can get leg bend to 115 degrees, but cannot walk without cane or walker. Hamstring is extremely tight. Nothing seems to be working. Getting out of bed or sitting position for extended periods is excruciating. I have to shuffle for first ten or so steps until I can actually pick my foot up. Please - any suggestions? Will this improve on its own,or will it increasingly get worse? I'm almost to the five month point and expected to be a lot better by now. One good thing - my new knee does not hurt. Paint is in hamstring and calves.

 

[beachcomber]

Barb,
Are you still seeing a physical therapist? I can almost see my PT rubbing his hands with glee at the idea of getting to work on your calf and hamstring muscles. So glad to hear your knee itself is doing so well! Hope the other problems resolve soon! Five months is still relatively "new" and it surely is an inter-connected system!

 

[JenniferG]

Barb. I was surgery on 3-18 both knees and still have some pain arising from sitting. My first few steps in the AM out of bed are a shuffle as well. I think some of that may be mental for me. I have to make the mental & physical effort to pick up my feet and bend my new knees. That's just because for I so long compensated. 115 Degrees is great! I think Beach was on target. Some more PT may be useful in helping you with the walk and gait. The pain I think/have been told lessens with time and strengthening of the muscles (which walking is the best for).

 

[Josephine]

What they said!

 

[Linda2]

I agree with everyone else. Ask for PT. They can really help straighten you out. They also can help you with massaging the scar tissue so you don't form new adhesions after the manipulation.