Linda2
post-grad
We have many threads about pain, but I thought we needed something with general information: Jo's chart, for one thing. Another thing that I think is worth mentioning is that the spectrum of pain that people perceive with this surgery varies widely. Some people have minimal pain after the first few days and can handle it with Tylenol, Motrin, or some other over the counter remedy. Other people have significant pain for a much longer period. The important thing to remember is that the initial pain (from the day of surgery and for 3-6 months afterwords) does not necessarily coordinate with the eventual success of the new joint. I guess this is of particular interest to me because I have significant pain and have varied reactions to pain meds. Some I am allergic to, some flat out don't work, some don't work on me at the dosages they work well on for others. My success with the new joints, however, is excellent. The year old knee bends to 145 degrees, hyper-extends just a wee bit, and is strong and stable. The newer knee extends to 0, flexes to 131, and is strong and stable as well. It, however, still hurts, and I still take my Dilaudid and Tylenol6 weeks out. I don't care, however, because I know the pain will go away, and I'll have a knee that works. So, if you're one of those people who has significant pain, swells more than the "average bear", or takes a bit longer to get to the finish line, don't despair. Both the tortoises and the hares can win this particular race. Just keep on keepin' on.
United Kingdom
