TKR recovery starts 21 May '13

[inspojo]

Instalment 4. 10 days post-op. As I told you, I'm in charge of my own PT and bearing very much in mind the
Blessed Mantra. Pain levels remain in the mild to low/ moderate area, exercises specified by the hospital physio
are practised three times daily and take 25 minutes a time. Taking gentle walks with the crutch every day with no discomfort . ROM is 0-90 plus, I haven't bothered to measure it but just eyeball it in a mirror and estimate it. The wound is dry , sore if I poke at it so I don't. Eating normally, and all digestive processes are normal. Lots of RIE. The swelling is not too big, the foot is also swollen but the nurse told me to expect that. Sleep is very slow to come, with a fair bit of restless legs so I listen to my little radio on headphones and usually drop off about 4, wake at 7 . Twice I forgot my pain meds for an hour-and-a-half (basic !!) but got away with it. When I started my exercise routine I did the first set on the floor but found that I couldn't get up until SWMBO weighed in . I got the impression she enjoyed hauling me about. Anyway all exercises now take place on the bed, using a suitable length of plastic shelf rescued from the workshop for heel-slides. My leg is a work of art , the bruising is extensive and resembles a thundercloud at sunset, dark blue-black shot through with reds and yellows. Yesterday morning I awoke to find the sheet thrown back, and SWMBO gently rubbing The Leg and examining it closely. She loves beautiful colours. I did find the process very pleasant and was moved to say "well what do you think Brunhilda, mein leibling " (a term of endearment only used on very special occasions and then only rarely) and waggled my eyebrows rapidly in the manner that all women find irresistible. She looked at me coolly, one eyebrow raised and not waggling, and said " I think you talk too much, and that leg looks bloody awful". Women...

 

[My way]

I'm so happy to hear you're doing so well. It appears SWMBO is very concerned about your well being. You are both truly blessed to have each other. Now continue to behave and look after your new knee.

 

[inspojo]

Thanks my way! I shall tape my eyebrows to keep them quiet I think... Have you a date and is it one knee or both? Joe

 

[My way]

Good Morning Jo, I'm having both done. As to a date, well long story. I currently have no date but I think it's getting close. It can't happen soon enough. I walk like a penguin with a limp and have to take tramadol/acet regularly to get through my days. If you want to read my saga it's on my thread "OS said it's time".
I hope you continue to do well with your recovery and there aren't to many down days. Don't tape your eyebrows! I imagine they only add to your charm.

 

[scaredinCA]

Thanks Joe for your descriptions of the food. I recently bought an Irish cookbook and it has a couple oatmeal dishes, but not the one with blood. I just learned how to make a soup with ham, cabbage and potato & onion that we love! Would the name McConnaughey
sound familar to you? I love reading your posts.

 

[My way]

I read on the party thread you were going out and about today. How is the knee feeling? I hope the bruising is starting to subside. That must be painful. I's getting late in Ireland so I will wish you a good and hopefully a restful night.

 

[kimejen]

Hello Joe. So glad to read you're doing well. I really enjoy your thread. "Laughter is the best medicine" - and that is certainly what you've given us all. Take care and I wish you well. Jenny

 

[inspojo]

Afternoon all! My 36 clips come out tomorrow. What I want to know is, is that a pleasant experience or should I bring a cushion to roar into ??

 

[robynhood]

Well not something I would like to have done again by choice Joe. Removal of clips that is. Not painful more like a stinging sensation. Smile nicely at the nurse and she will be gentle with you or give her some of the Irish charm. Im sure it always works.

 

[inspojo]

Doesn't always work, Pat. She's Irish herself and therefore immune I fear...

 

[inspojo]

Thanks for those kind words kimejen. One does one's best !

 

[Diesellily]

I have just found this website today and discovered Jo. My son is so curious as to the cause of my belly laughs! Please keep writing Jo you really have a talent there. And also get well soon.

 

[My way]

Hi Jo, Those staples don't hurt as much as sutures. I've had three major OPs and staple removal was like a tug and a quick sting. You'll be fine. The surgeon that did my last op told me he had 84 staples in his leg and he removed them himself! Mind you, he also said he sat there with a bottle of rum. Really though,it's not bad at all.

 

[inspojo]

Hi diesellilly, Well, I believe we have to appreciate the fun side of TKR ! Welcome to the forum,you won't regret it, loads of good info you won't find anyplace else Keep in touch..., Joe

 

[Titianlady]

Like the ladies have said, the staple removal is not bad. A bit of a sting and it's out. Some of mine I didn't even feel when they were removed. There were a couple at the top of my knee that did unfortunatlely feel like they were attached to my spleen, but, hey, all in all not a terrible experience.

 

[inspojo]

Howya feelin' after the pordy ? !!

 

[Titianlady]

Ohhhh, my what a hangover!! Those piña coladas, and muscular warriors really did me in! That and spending all that time under the table..

 

[inspojo]

be assured, Toni, I shall be speaking sternly to those rapscallions this very night.

 

[My way]

Ha Ha I still got one of those rapscallions! I'll send him back.

 

[inspojo]

Be afraid. Be very afraid...