TKR Surgery June 4 (scared)

[Jockette]

When i was not in bed, I sat on my couch, with my legs on an ottoman. It was not the prescribed elevation height, but I have low back issues and cannot sit in a reclined position, I need my back to be more upright. This worked very well for me.

I was able to sleep in my bed, from day one, with my leg up on an elevating wedge, so I did get plenty of “toes above the nose” elevation.

 

[benne68]

I spent most of my first two weeks lying on the couch with my surgical leg wrapped with the icing sleeve and both legs elevated on a wedge (similar to Lounge Doctor). At night, I moved to my bed with a short pillow stack for my leg and pillows on either side of me to keep me from rolling over on my surgical leg.

I found sitting very uncomfortable -- even with my leg elevated -- and did it only for meals or if I had to be in the car.

Everyone is different and you need to find what works for you. But do keep in mind that elevating (toes above nose) is very important during those first few weeks to relieve pain and reduce swelling.

@Salvo12

 

[Jen53014]

I went between recliner and bed. Bed was the only place I could elevate well. For the first couple of weeks having my leg hanging down while sitting (like at the kitchen table) was very uncomfortable so I pulled a chair next to me to put my leg on. I will advise to get a leg lifter as it makes it so much easier to position the leg into a comfortable position.

 

[Nlh61]

I had tkr on my left knee on May 20, 2024. It’s only been a week and I’m walking around upstairs with any aid. No walker or cane. They’re available if I need it though. I’ve gone downstairs a few times. Went to therapy last Friday. My doctor prescribed a passive recumbent bike that I use 5 times a day for 12 minutes And I ice after each session. I’m not taking any narcotics. I feel great, just a bit tired because it is tough to sleep on my back. I feel I am doing so much better this time than I did 7 years ago on my other knee. BTW I’m 68 years old.

 

[Salvo12]

Hi again everyone. My surgery is coming up Tuesday. This morning my lip feels a little picky. I haven’t had many, but it feels like it may be a cold sore coming (though nothing showing). I am so freaked that surgery will be cancelled because of this. Is this a realistic concern? I’ve worked myself up into a bit of a frenzy.

 

[mendogal]

Nope, a recurring herpes virus outbreak on your lip shouldn't be a reason for canceling.

However, it would be good to call your ortho tomorrow just to inform them of your concern.

 

[DizzyBlond]

@Salvo12 I’ve been wondering about a similar issue - mosquito bites! I’ve got my pre-op this Friday, so I’ll add it to my list of questions to ask. There are so many things to be thinking about, aren’t there?!

 

[mendogal]

@Salvo12 I’ve been wondering about a similar issue - mosquito bites! I’ve got my pre-op this Friday, so I’ll add it to my list of questions to ask. There are so many things to be thinking about, aren’t there?!

My preop team laughed when I showed them teeny kittie scratches on my forearm.

The concern isn't every little skin lesion; it's wounds and lesions either actively infected or looking very likely to become so.

So a couple of itchy red skeeter bites? No problem.

Insect bites surrounded by warm red cellulitis, as I've seen people get from untreated, too often scratched at, dirty skeeter or flea bites? A definite concern.

When in doubt ask your team, send them a photo.

 

[DizzyBlond]

@mendogal Well, that’s a relief! I didn’t want to think of having to barricade myself in the house for the next few weeks!

 

[Salvo12]

My surgery is tomorrow and I’m pretty anxious. Hoping for the best.

 

[Layla]

You'll do great! We'll be thinking of you and watching for you on the healing side.
All the best tomorrow! Hope to see an update soon.
@Salvo12