knee manipulation w/ prolonged epidural

[mindy]

Hi has anyone had or know someone who has gone through a manipulation with an prolonged epidural (3 days in hospital)? My mom had a TKR almost 2 yrs ago and had a pulmonary embolism and 2 weeks later a bleed that went undetected for almost 2 weeks. So the outcome of the TKR was secondary to the 2 life threatening events. she had a manupulation about 4 or 5 weeks ago that didn't seem to work the dr got another 20 degrees but she has since gone back to 90 degrees. She is in so much pain and scared to have the prolonged epidural. She feels hopeless and she is only 58. anyone give any postive insight??

 

[Josephine]

The epidural is the safest way to go with her history. The manipulation itself is not a very major procedure so she shouldn't be so scared. Still, at least the PTs will be able to get that knee going without giving her any pain in the doing of it. Though I can understand her feeling depressed about it. It's all bad enough without having complications like that.

My heart goes out to her.

 

[Simon]

Mindy

On previous surgeries I had a epidural in place for a few days and it was not a problem. It is just a great way to get alot of pain relieve without some of the side effects of oral meds. Also, I hope this is a unit where your mom can push a button when she needs some relieve. If she has no pain, it will be easier to do intense physical therapy so that the scar tissue does not return.

I would also suggest she talk to the doctor about using extended relief pain pills when she goes home. This makes it easier to stay pain free. With this you will need some lighter pain meds for break through pain and before PT.

A good PT will be critical to keep the scar tissue away. Find one that she is comfortable with.

Hope all goes well.

Simon