Horses after replacement?

[aunt B]

I'm scheduled for TKR on 2 weeks and am having second thoughts. My knee is not so bad that I can't stand it, but it is so bad that I can no longer ride my horse. Does anyone have any expierence with riding after TKR? My discipline is dressage. Any encouragement or advice would be appreciated.

 

[Sue]

Hi AuntB--I had my right TKR on 10/18/07 and I saw my surgeon a couple of weeks ago for my last follow-up visit. We talked a lot about sports. He said I can do anything that I feel comfortable with, whenever I'm ready, but he cautioned against skiing, skating, or other sports that have a high risk of falls. He didn't have any problem with horse back riding, if I felt up to it. And, at nearly 3 months post surgery, I think I could get on a horse right now if I wanted to. I haven't done regular riding like you have, but I nearly always go riding a few times each summer, as I live in the West. Sue

 

[aunt B]

Thanks! I'm just not sure If I should wait "until I can't stand it anymore" like I have heard so many people say. Horses are the main thing it's keeping me from, but is that enough? My surgeon says I certainly qualify with the level of OA - I've been grinding bone on bone for a number of years... I guess I want a guarantee that I can ride post-op, but I know there isn't one. Ah, such are the dilemnas of life!

 

[Josephine]

Well, here's another dilemma for you, aunt B. If you leave it too long, you could run the risk of deforming the bone and having shortening of the ligaments to a degree that will affect your rehab.

But what are you waiting for? Your quality of life is not what you want. Your surgeon is ready to act. I'd say go for it. The sooner it's done, the sooner you'll be back up on those steeds of yours!

 

[kirtana]

Hi Aunt B:

I sympathize with you. I have two horses (Saddlebreds) and compete on the B Circuit. I have very bad osteoarthritis and tore the meniscus in my right knee about a year and a half ago. I had cortisone shots which didn't work longer than 3 weeks-then tried Hyalgan shots (hyluronic acids shots like they inject horses with) that worked for awhile but the pain came back when winter came. Tried acupuncture too which kept the pain at bay. Then I went on vacation and tore the meniscus in the left knee from excessive walking/climbing stairs. To make a long story short I was crippled and in too much pain to ride.

The orthopedic surgeon said it was time for the surgery.

I got another round of cortisone shots to keep the pain under control while I waited for my scheduled Bilateral (both) Total Knee Replacement surgery (I opted to have them both done at the same time - one hospitalization/one rehab). In the meantime, I lost 10 pounds (not overweight but to lower cholesterol levels) after a few weeks I took lessons riding Western so I could still get on a horse but I didn't have to post to put any strain on my knees.

Had the surgery on Dec. 17th, 2007. I brought pictures of me riding to the hospital for motivation. Stayed in the hospital for two weeks - they gave me very intensive rehab sometimes getting me up 6-7 times a day for therapy.
I was a very motivated patient because I know show season is going to be here very soon. My doctor said, I could go riding (don't jump - on purpose after at least a minimum of 8 weeks - could be longer depending on how I feel. Don't want to rush anything.

I had to laugh because the therapy I received in the hospital was like having a horse back riding lesson without the horse. They had me doing surpentines around orange cones in the hallway. Anyway I walked out of the hospital without the assistance of a walker or cane (carry a cane for safety outside). I attribute my success to my therapists and my determination to get back in the saddle. I also think because I was in good physical shape from riding (upper and lower body strength) it helped me though the exercises not to mention getting off the toilet and putting socks/shoes on. PLEASE NOTE: this is a tough surgery - I still have pain and go to therapy 3x a week.
But I work though it. I remain optimistic and have scheduled all the hotels for the horse shows this coming season.

My instructor has plans for me once I go back to ride. She is going to put me back on a western saddle and lunge me around the ring. I will also ride her Tennesse Walking horse so I will not have to post for awhile. Then I will progress to the show horses. She should know because she also had her knee replaced (only one).

Horses as well as any personal passion is a great motivator. I know because this is the second time I have had major surgery. I had a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery for breast cancer four years ago. Despite all of this I won the year end (2007) championship in my category/age division (reserve championship in 2006). I look forward to competing again this year - even if I don't win anthing. As Winston Churchill once said "The outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man (in this case woman)." Riding is what keeps me going......

Good luck

From one horseperson to another

 

[Skeet]

What an inspiration you are! You've conquered breast cancer and now bilateral knee replacements. You have an outstanding attitude. Thanks for your post and for helping me put things in perspective. We had surgery on th same day and I'm just now moving to a cane. Still on pain killers and struggling with PT. I'm so encouraged and motivated by your accomplishments.

God bless you! I fully expect you to compete this season. I, too, love horses and jumping. Can't even imagine doing it anytime soon, though. You go, girl!!

 

[Josephine]

kirtana, that is such an inspiring post! I am going to start a sticky thread with these fantastically uplifting posts. May I use yours as a starter? You're under no obligation to agree, I would add.

Nevertheless, I am awarding you the January Gold Star for the most encouraging post I have seen this year!!

 

[kirtana]

Hi Skeet & Josephine!

Thanks for the great comments and the gold star! Of course you can use my posting as long as you think it will help others especially those who ride horses.

Yes, knee replacement is a tough journey but it certainly helps to know that you are not alone. Half the battle is dealing with the everyday humdrums amd all the ups and downs. I am also fortunate to have a friend who went through knee replacement (one) last year, and I am able to call her for support.

God Bless you both.

Thanks for the support.

 

[aunt B]

WoW! Ask and ye shall recieve! Boy that is SOME encouragement from everybody! Josephine, you are absolutely correct, there is no reason to put things off. I had to attend a mandatory (as per my surgeon) class on joint replacement this week and at age 50, I was the cute young chick in the room, and the only one there not using a cane or walker. I do NOT want to get that bad!

And, Kirtana, I am so impressed with you! You are a much more advanced rider than I am. I used to show hunter jumpers years ago, and have dabbled in the Saddlebred world as well. My show days are behind me. I have a half Arab "sport horse" and my joy is just being with him. I owned his dam and have raised him from a pup. I love trail riding with the others at my barn, (most of them show Arabians).

I never had cortisone shots, but had 2 rounds of the Hyalgan shots - the first worked great for about a year. The second I got only 4 months of relief.
So, here I am.

I know rehab will be tough. Fortunately my other knee in healthy, but I am not in that great a shape - need to lose some lard, and because of the knee pain I havn't been able to ride in 2 years. I have been working with a trainer since August and walking - I used to do 2-2 1/2 miles 3-4 days a week and now I can just manage to do 1 1/2. I doing all lower body workouts now to get ready for the big day. I am highly motivated to do the P. T., and I'm a bit concerned that my hospital does not seem to be that agressive with rehab. (I may regret saying that in about 10 days!) In addition to getting back in the saddle my husband is taking me to Switzerland in May - I need to be ready to walk up an Alp!

Great idea though about riding western. I will definately give that a shot when I mount up again I am most comfortable on my old jumping saddle, but I'll knock the dust off of my western gear and give it all a good cleaning.

I am most encouraged though, by your triumph over breast cancer. My mom is a survivor too, diagnosed in 2000. That is a fight that heros win.

Thanks again for the encouraging words. I'm scheduled for Monday, Jan. 28. If any of you folks are of the praying kind, I'd covet your prayers!

 

[Skeet]

I'll be praying for you, Aunt B. If given a choice of general or epidural/spinal anethesia, go epidural. The pain is less afterwards and the recoup seems faster and easier. They drug you enough that you don't realize what is going on - trust me! I was so glad I did that. And my hospital was not aggressive with PT, but I went in on Monday and came home Wednesday evening, so it wasn't too big a deal. I just got more aggressive when I came home (until recently when depression and a virus grabbed hold of me).

God be with you and your doctors. You will do great! I'm at almost 5 weeks PO. I also was the cute young chick in the class - felt good for a change! All the best - Skeet

 

[kirtana]

Aunt B:

I bet you can't wait to get back in the saddle. Your baby sounds wonderful. Arabs are so beautiful. They have such gorgeous heads and eyes.

Thanks for the words of support. My friends and I laugh at the major surgeries I have had in the last few years. I get better with each one. A tummy tuck with the reconstructive breast surgery and a new boob, then straighter legs and taller with the bilateral knee replacement. I am really heading towards getting a whole new body.

Yes, the doctor really straightened out both my legs. I was bow-legged before and now I have two new straight legs. I am standing taller too- some of my friends have to look up at me now. My doctor said he thought being bow-legged would make me a better rider, but I said no cuz it is harder to squeeze your horse forward. Can you imagine what show season will be like this year? I love to go fast and now I will be able to drive the horse forward even more. WATCH OUT!

Like Skeet said, I had a spinal and didn't feel a thing after surgery, your anesthiologist will discuss this with you before the surgery.

The pre-surgical class was very informative especially regarding questions I had regarding insurance and rehab. I too felt out of place (at 56 yo) Although, being so anal, I had done a lot of stuff before the class. You might want to get your temporary handicapped vehicle card before the surgery- your doctor will give you a form that you take/mail to your state's motor vehicle department. That way you are prepared to go home and not have to walk so far when someone drives you to therapy, doctor, store, etc.

I will pray for you on January 28th. You will do great. Look at all the people rooting for you and on hand for moral support. Good luck and remember to do everything and more (if possible) that your PT's tell you.

PS>A picture of the Swiss Alps might be handy to look at for motivation. Sounds like a really beautiful trip to look forward to. Take care.

 

[aunt B]

Thanks for the encouragement you guys!

As for anesthesia, I'll have (I think it's called) a femoral block, which is a type of spinal with a light "twilight" general... sounds good to me! It sounds very similar to what yall describe.

Good tip on the handicap permit. I'll get that ball rolling tomorrow. Our class was very informative but they didn't cover that - they did ask if I already had one - I'm certain I was the only one there who didn't.

And, yes, I can't wait to get back in the saddle - Please please tell me when yall are riding again ... I want to live vicariously! I really want to hear your experiences so that I'll know that it can be done.

Kirtana, I think it’s GREAT that you are taller! I’m a shorty myself and I’ll love to gain an inch or two, but since I’m only having one knee done, I’d walk pretty funny! And I’ll bet you will be able to really squeeze and go go go! I know you’ll have a great show season.

Yes, Arabs are beautiful, and mine is no exception. And because his daddy was a Paint, he has the added bonus of that powerful quarter horse rump and his brain seems to have gotten the best of both gene pools. Not that I’m biased or anything, but he’s really great. When ever I ride him I always think of that song from “The Sound of Music” that says “Somewhere in my youth or childhood, I must have done something good”.

And Skeet, don’t let that depression get out of hand. I’ve been there too, and down in that pit is no place to be. Did they tell you that depression can be a side effect of anesthesia? I hope you’ve already gotten some help, but if not, please don’t wait. Years ago, I let mine spiral out of control because I thought I should just be able to get over it. That’s like saying I should just “get over” the arthritis in my knee. So sorry about the virus – no advice there; I hope you are feeling better, but the depression can be a brain chemistry thing that is relatively easy to correct. I was on Prozac for about 5 – 6 months and never looked back.

Thanks again for all the advice, and most of all the prayers! I will have a photo of Beau (my horse) along with a picture of the Swiss Alps with me all during rehab for inspiration. And I really want to know when you are riding again.

 

[kirtana]

Hi Aunt B:

Beau sounds beautiful. Is he solid colored or a paint?

My orthopedic surgeon told me after the surgery that I couldn't go riding for at least 8 weeks. Also, I am not driving yet and it takes me over a hour and a half to get to my instructor's barn. So until I am totally comfortable and the roads aren't covered in snow, I won't press my luck. Slow and steady- no mistakes- no relapses. I see him tomorrow for my 5th week check up.

The other day my riding instructor told me that when I am ready, she will put me on a horse and walk me around the ring before I am actually let loose. She wants to make sure I am not in pain and my balance is not affected. I think however, that I will be better on a horse than walking. I am walking great but I still feel a little uncoordinated.

As soon as I am back in the saddle, I will let you know how it goes.

Good luck on your surgery. Oh by the way a clear plastic frame that stands up is great to hold your pictures on your hospital nightstand. Focus on climbing that mountain - oooh all these references to the "Sound of Music"

 

[aunt B]

Hi Kirtana,
Beau is a bay, a carbon copy of his mama (we almost named him xerox!). How about your ponies? I'm amazed that you live so far away from your horses. I hope you can drive soon and that the weather cooperates with you. I'm about a mile and a half from my boy by car, and we only very rarely have icy roads in this part of Texas. My left knee is the bum one so I'm hoping I can drive fairly soon after the surgery. I know it will be at least two weeks, and I can wait that long.
I think you are very smart to have your instructor walk you around on our first ride. I plan to do the same, although I don't take regular lessons, I've got several friends and a round pen waiting to help. Beau is pretty quiet and reliable, but by no means "bomb proof". I'm hoping I can get a friend or two to get on him and exercise him for a week or two before I'm ready. Normally I don't mind the friskys but certainly not right away.
Good luck with your first ride! Keep me posted...

 

[Skeet]

What a great thread. Nice to think of horses instead of PT, pain, etc.

With respect to depression, yes, I am on some anti-depressants and doing better. It is more of a cycle. When the pain increases, so does my depression and weepiness. Then the pain goes away and I feel great.

I'm at 5.5 weeks PO and down to one pain pill every 8 hours or so. I end up taking a bit more on PT days. Things are coming along really well. Don't know when I'll be riding again, but just knowing I actually can at some point (I wasn't able to ride due to pain for several years) is uplifting and exciting.

Hang in there!! It just keeps getting better.

Skeet

 

[kirtana]

Hi Aunt B/Skeet

Aunt B - Good luck on the 28th. I will be rooting for you.

I have two oldie Saddlebreds- a gray mare 23yo (15.2)who is a pet that I took on trail rides and school shows. Her name is Amber. She was born a chestnut, shed out a bay and is now gray with some black in her mane and tail. People think she is an Arab but she doesn't have the Arab's pretty sculpted head though she is beautiful and my favorite color.

My other horse is Chief (Performing Art - registered name) a former show horse (Park/Show Pleasure- I never showed him) he is 25 yo chestnut gelding who is 16+ hands. I was leasing him 2 years ago to practice on after my hiatus with breast cancer and we both grew on each other. Anyway his owner just gave him to me last year. He still thinks he is a show horse and can really book, however, he is a perfect gentleman when you mount/dismount. He waits for the que before he leaves the mounting block and is voice trained esp. the word WHOA which is very important for an oldie like me.

I think it is funny cuz the last few months, he got used to hearing the tapping of my cane when I entered the barn (opposite end of where his stall is) and started screaming for his carrots.

Anyway, Amber is retired on my friends farm (no indoor ring) and Chief is boarded at a stable near the farm. My friends and daughter are keeping an eye out for them both. It is hard for me cuz the farm/barn is an hour away and I dare not navigate the terrain with all the snow/ice. My trainer (I show her horses) lives even farther - 1 1/2 hours. I envy you that you are so close to your horses. I live near Chgo. so there is not much space to keep horses.

I did drive today for the 1st time!!! Yeah! I was a little nervous as I haven't been behind the wheel for almost 6 weeks but I passed the driving rxn. test with the OT and the dr. said I could start - so I went to the mall (indoors) walked around, did some shopping, and went home and passed out. Thank goodness for pain pills.

I will take it easy to build up my driving tolerance-had to push the seat way back to get both legs in the car. It was hard because I had both knees done. However, it felt really good to be out on my own and not relying on others.

Take care all. The end is in sight...

Kirtana

 

[aunt B]

Kirtana,
Good for you! That first drive is a milestone for sure. Your horses sound wonderful and gray is my favorite color too! Beau is half arabian, he doesn't have that refined sculpted head, but you can see the arab in him - a slight dish, beautiful eyes and such cute ears... to me he's just about perfect!

And Skeet,
I'm glad to know you have a handle on that depression. I certainly understand the weepiness - I'm such a crybaby that I wear waterproof mascara! I'll watch out for that though, as a side effect of the pain. I had not thought of that.

Well, I think I've tied up all my loose ends and I'm ready to start packing for the hospital, so this is probably the last you'll hear from me for a while. The anxiety level has been pretty high around here for the last few days... am I doing the right thing? is it too soon? what if I can't get back in bed by my self? or worse, go to the bathroom by my self? But, through much prayer, I really feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing, and after church this morning, I have a real peace about it all.

I have to be up at 4:00 am to get to the hospital by 6:00 (we are about an hour north of Houston) - surgery will be at 7:30. Prayers for me will be appreciated, but pray for my Doc!!! He needs to have a really good day!

Thanks for all the encouragement. I'll be in touch.
Aunt B

 

[Skeet]

You are covered in prayer, Aunt B. I pray your surgery goes better than anyone anticipated, that the doctors have wisdom and skill beyond normal. May you be blessed with minimal pain afterwards, as was I, and wonderful care givers. Do what the PT asks and you'll be fine. Eat well, rest well, drink plenty of water. Your surgery is the same time on day mine was. I was up and moving in the afternoon and felt great. Make sure when you are up that you have a belt around you to help folks catch you if you fall (I slipped and there was no belt - it was almost a disaster). We look forward to hearing from you soon and knowing you're on your way to painless knees!

Skeet

 

[kirtana]

Aunt B.

Skeet said it so eloquently, so I will just ditto what she said.

Please let us know when you are on the road to recovery.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Kirtana

 

[Josephine]