Thank you so much for taking us on your knee surgery journey! I will be having RTKR in August (2022). Videos like yours really do help to give me confidence that I will also have a great recovery experience! I'm sure you're doing much better since 2018. (I haven't watched any of your other videos on hiking, but I will.) Thanks for the tips!
great to hear! I am having both done in a couple weeks. Actually doing the first (right knee) 1/25 and then doing the other 2 1/2 weeks later. I have a desk job, so I am hoping to be back to work a few weeks after the 2nd procedure. Very encouraging to see your progress, trying to figure out if I'm doing the right thing has been keeping me up at night. But, everyone I have talked to says it is worth it!
I’m 74 too and plan on TKR for my right knee soon. Received a silicone shot (the third time over a recommended spacing period) yesterday and discussed the next step towards surgery. Waiting for the pre-lim team to call me so I can go in for the necessary for pre-op (weight, diabetes, etc.) info, testing and such. Been dealing with a bad right knee for years.
I am 55 at 5 weeks post-op and this video is great! I too have pushed too far on occasion. Swelling and sleepless nights are my nemesis. I am doing my other knee at 12 weeks post op. I am bike riding and swimming daily. Stretching in the water is awesome. I love the new knee! Thanks for the compression sleeve idea.
I had right TKR six weeks ago. Drove at three weeks. I’m 73 years old had my left knee done 16 years ago. I’m doing 2 miles on the elliptical machine and walking in the neighborhood. 7-8,000 steps a day. One more week of PT. It takes 6 months to fully recover.
This is great Ape Man. What everybody should know is that everybody recovers differently and at different rates. I'm 54 years old and I had my left knee replaced 14 months ago (Dec 2019) and it now feels great - no pain and range of motion is 125 degrees (flexion). I had a lot of swelling from day 1 but fought through it and did my exercises 3 times a day every day. I was able to complete a full rotation on the stationary bike under 3 weeks. I was off the walker and cane in just over 3 weeks. I'm very active (golfing, mountain biking, hiking) and some swelling was still there after 14 months. But no worries because the pain is completely gone! The swelling eventually went away completely when I had no choice but to rest for my second knee replacement (January 2021). My right knee has already gone through several surgeries. The biggest one was a high tibial osteonomy about 11 years ago which bought me 11 more years before I had to go through with this total knee replacement. It's been almost 4 weeks now and I still have a lot of swelling. I cannot do a full rotation on the bike yet so I'm lagging behind in my progress when comparing to my first replacement but I know it will improve as the swelling goes away slowly. I was told that I may NOT have as great a range of motion with this knee as I've already had several surgeries which have contributed to scar tissue in the knee even before this knee replacement. I find the best exercise to do to gain maximum range of motion is biking but it will be at least another 7 or 8 months before I get max ROM. I'm hoping for at least 110 degrees. To anyone going through this right now, DO NOT GIVE UP! It will get better but realize it will take some time. I was over a year before I could say that I was fully recovered and there was still some swelling, however, it would not stop me from doing anything. I'm so happy I have had these done. The pain is 100% gone in the first knee and hoping for similar results with the second. So far so good - the pain is gone.
Thank you so much for your videos. I’m having TKR on 11/4 and my anxiety has been off the charts. I really appreciate your down to earth and honest comments regarding your experience . I think I will be able to push thru this experience after watching your journey. Thank you again.
I am now almost 8 weeks post op and starting to feel normal. I’ve been doing PT (at home and outside) since 11/5 and am making good progress...bending over 100 degrees, but need to do better. I’m going back to work on 1/13, so I’m hoping for a bit more improvement by then. Sleep is getting better; just icing some residual shin and calf pain. It is a process and I’m happy to see light at the end of the tunnel; thank you for asking!
@@lauriekall5235 Thanks for the update. Congrats on having the worst behind you. You should feel more and more normal and soon rarely even think about your knee anymore. Keep working on that flexion!
@@lauriekall5235 I'm having my tkr on Monday. The surgeon suggested I watch some of these videos-this wasn't one of them, but its in with the others, and it looked like a good one. Glad to now you're on the mend!
Karen Baker Good luck with your surgery and the best advice I can give you is have patience. It is a process and not a short one. I’m now 6 mths out from my surgery and it is doing great!
Very Interesting , I had my 1st knee replacement at 50 , all very similar as yourself with recovery. Lasted 14 years and had it replaced a second time as the knee came loose. I am 3 years into my new knee and all is perfect . It was a lot easier 2nd time round and was great getting back on the golf course after a short lay up . Let’s hope all is still going well for you
Still going strong and doing lots of backpacking and hiking. Good to hear the replacement not so bad because I'm not holding back and the knee is working great.
Well done! Just about to have my second knee replacement...cripes! For me, the most painful part was night-time...roll on 6 months down the line...best wishes from Wales UK...
I'd say this man's experience is far from typical. You'll likely be very disappointed if you expect to be hiking within weeks. I'm at 5 weeks, pain is not under control and I cannot walk far. Maybe i'm at the other extrene to him but even he asks l admits many others have more pain and stiffness than him.
Love ur dog. I am just past four weeks doing well but still pretty swollen and sensitive scar but I'm walking without a cane. I also need other knee done. Thanks for doing these videos.
I had bilateral knee replacement on February 7th, so 3 weeks. Used a walker the first week, now a cane. Sleep is hard, on my back,ugh! My left knee is pretty good, but my right knee is having a tough time bending. No more pain meds unless I'm going to physio. I'm hoping to be as good as you. Glad I did both knees at the same time. Learning so much. Looking forward to walking pain free. Thanks for the video, from Toronto.
It took me about 6 weeks before I got the sleep thing down. Experiment with new positions until you find one that works. I was always a stomach sleeper but now I prefer to sleep on my side with my knees bent. The worst is over - good luck to you!
That's me in one week -- I need these videos and comments like yours to quell my anxiety. I get around okay, but my arthritis is making it impossible for me to do my active job, which I want to keep doing. So: here goes! I hope you are doing just great in the meantime. Wish me luck!
I am six weeks post-op and I am feeling and doing very well, much better than I thought I would after a total knee replacement. Following the guidance and recommendations of my healthcare team and having my own home gym have help speed my recovery. I've got good range of motion and starting to crank up my strength training this week. Thanks for sharing your story!
Strengthen the muscles in your leg as much as you can before surgery. I won't lie and there are some tough days but a positive attitude and doing the exercises religiously will help with a faster recovery. Good luck to you!
I enjoyed your video. I’m 13 days into my journey of bi-lateral knee replacements. Yes, I got both done at the same time. I’m walking with the walker- still hurting some when standing trying to use my knees/legs. I’m still quite swollen and on pain meds. I just got home last night from being 1 week in an inpatient rehab hospital - I had to manage everything on my own- ADLs and PT. I am looking for the day I can hike and get around with minimal instability. Thank you for sharing your journey
So glad I found your video .even though it's the 3rd of April 2020:-) we are in lockdown here in New Zealand ,I had my total knee replacement 2 weeks ago..and ha a rotten day yesterday,,this morning better ,and just thought I'd look up some one who's been there,,ever so helpful.and the letters sent to you,,I have had both hips and other knee done ,but this time there's more pain,but I'm persevering with the exercises,as you say so important,evr so please to see someone how's pushed through the pain and moved on to the happyer days ,,thanks heaps for taking the time to do the video :-)
Lockdown here in California too! Good time to work on flexion and extension! I'm hoping to do some pretty intense backpacking trips this summer when this virus is beaten. Best of luck on your journey and be safe.
Hey Bro I feel your pain, right knee replaced 4 years in Aug. and one year in June for the left knee, the bad part for me was the weight gain with the bad knees. Took up hiking after the first operations for rehab, and fell in love with it, then left knee went bad and had to stop, now after my second surgery I'm back hiking again, like you starting about two miles a hike and working my way up, it will get better and stronger I promise, keep up the good work.
Love to hear good news stories, thanks! I used to run a lot to stay in shape and have missed that. I got fatter as well so I have to look for other ways to keep the pounds off. I typically lose 1 pound a day on backpacking trips but that is not a healthy way to lose weight! I have a gym membership and just have to start using it! Glad to hear you are back hiking again. It's more enjoyable than the gym.
Oh yeah I hate the gym, so boring, since you live in Calif. if your ever in the Orland area look me up, would love to take you around the trails of Black Butte Lake.
I’m having TKR next Tuesday. I LOVE your channel. I did the Kearsarge Pass hike 2 years ago on a very arthritic knee. Before my knee got so bad, I booked a trip for September to Yosemite to do the Panorama trail. I guess I’ll be lucky to do baby hikes. Still, you give me hope.
Hi again Ape Man, I had my TKR on sept 10, 2019. It was rough! My pain meds messed me up and I ended up in the ER. Then I went to rehab. I’ve done everything I could to feel better and deal with everything. I am doing much better now. I don’t regret anything, and I pray things continue to go well. Your videos were helpful and hopeful, and I thank you for sharing your story with all of us. Hope you are doing well.
I had TKR on 9/23 to be honest, it has been a slow painful process. I do not get any sleep at night because of the pain. I do therapy daily at home and twice a week in the office. I was not aware the healing process would take so long. I was hoping I would be back to the office by now but I’m truly grateful my company has allowed me to work from home. For me, I think the pain and swelling and not getting any sleep, is the most challenging part of the procedure.
ad Lopez I understand how you feel about pain at night and getting your sleep. If your knee is swelling then elevate and ice. I massage my thigh muscles front & back twice a day with Biofreeze. I massage my scar with vitamin e oil twice a day. I also am wearing a knee brace half an hour three times a day. It’s very time consuming, but I know it will pay off. Don’t be afraid to take your pain meds especially at night- it will help you sleep better. My therapist said it will be at least three months before I’ll get a good night’s sleep. I also take a sleep aid-and it helps. Don’t lose faith, do the exercises, take your meds, and stay home to work as long as you need to. As I say my prayers, I will pray for your speedy recovery too.
Diane Columbus Thank you Diane. I appreciate your advice. I have recently added a sleep aid in addition to the pain meds at night. It has helped tremendously! I have asked my doctor for a topical cream to help with the pain. He prescribed Voltaren gel. I use it 4 times a day. I also wear a brace for support. I continue with therapy and can see progress but, honestly the healing process is slow and painful. Again Thank you. God Bless!
My wife had her first knee done 8-8-19 she didn't have any problems with the pain meds. Had her other knee done 1-28-20 pain meds. have been making her sick. Same meds.
@@adlopez177 I just started to try sleeping on my side. I cant but its a few mins of luxury, so I will take it. I hope all goes well for you. Keep stretching, you wont regret it, I know its hard. But PUSH PUSH PUSH!! I am pulling for all of us.
Thank you sir for giving me the courage to have my knee surgery! I want my life back too!! I've been putting it off with steroid injections, even thought of stem cell therapy! Thank God I saw your videos and thank you again!!
Not yet, on May 15th I have an appt to have an injection of some sort of jell in my right knee!! Trying everything first before the surgery but know deep down it will require surgery! I just watched your 1 year video, you are a role model for lots of folks!! Thank you for responding!!
Sounds like you are getting euflexxa or synvisc injections. They work well for some and not at all for others. They helped me a lot and I got in a few years of backpacking before I had to do the TKR. You should try to keep your real knee for as long as possible but if it's making your life miserable then it's time to consider TKR. Good luck!
I did my surgeries close together and the first knee was awesome. However, you put a lot of weight on the other leg, so its like starting over again. Not sure which leg was worse. But now that I am 2 weeks out of my left leg....I can finally get up alone, I should have someone behind me going up the steps....I have been have a few bathroom incidents because I cant make it, but every day its getting better. I have lots of pictures. I will see if I can post them. So 1rst surgery was Dec 17th 2nd surgery March 3 and I start outpatient therapy on Tuesday. I have been asking friends if I can borrow their stationery bike....NO ONE IS ANSWERING ME, as normal. Good Luck on your next surgery!!
Sleeping was my biggest problem. I found sleeping on my side with a pillow between my legs was a good sleeping position. Try to limit your naps do you are tired at night. It will get a little better each day.
I’m doing great now I only have a 90 degree bend but I was already told that before the surgery cause I had so much damage. I was 38 when my surgery was done a year and half ago
Hi, well i had my knee replacement 1 year ago and i totally agree, i was in the swimming pool on 7th week of operation doing exercises and It helped enormously, yes its a painfull operation but the relief afterwards and being able to do the stairs and normal Activity without pain Is great, the only thing Is that i have a Little problema kneeling on that knee but other than that i would re do
A few years ago I lost a good friend to total knee surgery while having both knees replaced. He passed away after the surgery due to a blot clot. Scared me off from surgery, but after struggling to walk properly with my bum right knee for so long I decided to start the processes of having surgery.
That sounds very much like my father. He died after both having both knees replaced and a blood clot in recovery. That was almost 25 years ago. I’ve been scared too, but I think I will “buck up” and get it done in a couple of months. :)
Thanks for the video I've just reached week 5 also doing great But can't get over 110 bend yet and also 5 in extension . you've inspired me to get outside and walking ...... Thanks so much. Annie
Glad to hear you are doing well. 5 and 110 at 5 weeks is awesome so don't worry about it. Keep the swelling under control and get out and start using it. I think my stationary bike helps me the most but it's not as much fun as getting out and walking. As the song goes: "Annie Let's Not Wait!" Listen to your physical therapist - not some random internet guy! Good luck!
@@ApeMan I'm into my second week and you we're right, the first week was horrible...nothing but pain and swelling...getting better I'm at 60 degrees and can walk around without the aid of a Walker
Glad to see that you are doing well! Keep it up. I hope to see you on the trails this summer. My wife had a knee replacement 18 months ago and she is doing well. She may have the other one done this fall.
The only thing wrong with this video is that everybody is different. Don’t think that because you are not as far along that it means you aren’t working at it as hard.
You are absolutely right. I try to mention in my knee videos that everyone will heal and progress at a different pace. I've had a good result and I hope I haven't been overly optimistic to the point of causing others to think they aren't progressing fast enough. I do believe attitude does play a huge role as a part of the process. Everyone will have setbacks but you just have to start everyday and do the best that you can but it's okay to have down days and not do the exercises and everything else occasionally. But you have to bounce back and say screw it - I can do this. Then before you know it a couple months go by from your surgery date and things do suddenly start getting better. Thanks for the reminder that is so true.
Eliter9293 Im 6 weeks post op and finished physical therapy My extension is at 0 and flexion is at 131. Im a personal trainer 66 years old and headed back to work soon. Feeling great no real issues
Kenneth DeTone 131 is awesome! You are an example of someone who is in shape and knows the work to recover. Better and faster outcomes if you are in shape before surgery. Congrats on your smooth and speedy recovery!
I am 9 weeks out. Still having a lot of pain. At four weeks was better. Thinking I am doing to much. Everyone is different. He is saying everyone should be where he is no way. Everyone is different. Don’t over do it it takes time to heal. Up to a year.
Yes definitely everyone is different! It does take up to a year to heal. I’m blessed to be a fast healer. I’m 10 months out on my 2nd replacement and it’s been better than the first. Never ignore the pain and push to hard. Good luck you are almost there!
Thank you for sharing, you have done a really good job of recovering from post op.I feel more confident going into my surgery. Great job and happy hiking! John
Thanks John. Attitude is 90% and pain meds can help with the other 10%. The whole process was much easier than expected and I'm so excited to be walking normally again. I actually feel younger. Good luck with your surgery!
Ape Man, I'm glad that you have recovered well from your surgery. I had both knees replaced in November of last year, and l have completely recovered. Thanks for your inspiration.
Great news! I'm tired of folks telling me I'm crazy-brave to do both knees at once, when it simply makes sense to go thru Hell only once, since they are similarly damaged. 😀 I'm hoping to have similarly good results, though I know it's going to be tough going. But my docs are super-involved and confident, so I'm trying to keep a stiff upper lip.
You had a great doctor, I'm 15 weeks out barely can walk at all Pain is still incredible 5-6 ALWAYS no relief Never sleep more then 4 hours Inflammation is incredible got better for a bit now much worse Feel like my whole body is infected Doc say just wait it will get better He sucks I work out 3-4 days a week at YMCA all with replacement doing better then me
I'm no expert but I've always recovered pretty quickly so may have set an overly optimistic recovery. I think it's pretty normal to be in a lot of pain for a few weeks but 15 sounds terrible. I think the pain will go away but actually I think it's more important at your stage to continue working on flexion and extension even though it hurts. If you are at least at 90 I wouldn't worry too much but you want to get to 120 at least - the sooner the better. You just have to power through this and follow up with your doctor if it doesn't get a little better week to week. Hang in there!
Oh Robert you have my understanding and sympathy! I'm 4wks out and on morphine patches that are doing nothing. I'm only able to sleep with a painkiller & sedative last thing at night. Without them I regularly awake during the night in tears from the pain. I do my exercises every day but despite the fact that I'm able to get around ok with my walker or pushing the pram the pain is shocking. My GP commented how red & hot it is but as I don't have a fever it obviously isn't infected but gave me anti-b's anyway which come with their own list of side effects. I keep looking at others and reading such positive comments about their recovery and wondering if there's something wrong with me?
I'm 3 weeks post op tomorrow. Pain is horrible sometimes. I can straighten perfectly but I can only bend about 75 to 80. It hurts trying to do more but hopefully it hurts less after swelling goes down more.
It will get a little better everyday. You have bad days where it seems it won’t get better but it will over time. Take your meds and work as hard as you can but be patient. Find exercises you enjoy. For me I loved the stationary bike. Good luck!
Im 59 yrs old.Im on my 2 months unilateral knee replacement on right knee . I can walk with my cane . . already and now start new life New Technolgy advance healing process with physical therapy and faith positive thoughts I had .... I can walk freely without pain.
Congratulations! When you start physical therapy my first goal would be to work with the therapist to get rid of the cane and try to have an as normal gait as you can. We have to retrain all our muscles and ligaments after surgery and the sooner the better. I played full court basketball last week with no ill effects. Probably not a good idea but it was fun. Everybody is different but I'm in the camp where you push it a little but not too much. Your pain level will be your guide. Good luck!
Wow amazing I'm still struggling had knee replacement August 27th and a MUA October 13th very slow recovery alot of swelling and inflammation after my MUA my leg blew up like a balloon
I’m at 8 weeks out and I’m doing about the same. I feel pretty good about it snd my knee makes noise too! I’m glad you mentioned it, because I thought it was really weird! My other knee replacement didn’t make any noise! 🤣
Thanks Ape Man, I'm at 7 weeks and am about the same extension and flexion as you are. I was thinking I was way behind but I think I'll stop stressing so much about it. Your videos have really helped me in my recovery. Thanks so much!
Hello Ape man. Your on the right track. Keep Pushing yourself !! I'm our 6 weeks like you and I have been pushing myself beyond pain I'm at 0% extend and flex is at 130 degrees. No cane. The more you push the better it gets. Keep up the good work !!
Wow 130 is really good. I'm around 125 and can do most anything. I'm 10 months post op now and the knee is great. I can hike and backpack and even have played a little full court basketball. I always pushed it harder than I should have but I have to be careful being on the internet and not have someone hurt themselves. I'm a sucker for pain and go by the mantra if it's not hurting then you aren't pushing hard enough. Good luck - sounds like you are doing great.
@@ApeMan thanks for your replay sounds like your really doing great. As of now I'm going on 6 weeks. I'm biggest thing is the pain I have at night when I try to sleep. But from what I hear the pain goes away around 5 or 6 months. That's something I won't miss. Thanks and good luck my friend.
I am 6 weeks out in 2 days...not doing hiking...maybe a mile walk at a time. I have about 120 degrees flexion now and they think I am doing pretty well!
hi terry glad to see your recovery still going great.. keep it up and and you will be as good as new. from my experience don't forget to do exercise your right knee also that way it stays strong and will be beneficial when you have it replaced. it helped with mine
Thanks Terry! I do a lot of physical labor in my daily job so that helps me a lot in keeping my strength up. I've favored one side so long it's exciting to be in balance again so I'm looking forward to getting in shape again. Planning on biking and hitting the gym more often. You are right on about being in shape before surgery!
hi terry have a silly question I viewed a video, not yours, that had a use for coffee filters. took filters out to my gear weeks ago but for the life of me cannot remember what they were to be used for. do you have any idea what it could be. sucks getting old and cant remember shit. lol
Only thing I can think of is to use them as a pre-filter for silty water before treating with a water filter or steripen. The cartridge filters like the swayers can clog pretty fast if you use water with a lot of silt in it. The water along the JMT is so clear it's easy to find good water. Very few times have I had to resort to something like that but when I have a bandana or dirty sock works - yum!
thanks terry, what ever it was had nothing to do with filtering. if I figure it out I will let you know. for some reason I think it had to do with sanitary issues how's the knee? I remember it taking a long time to be able to move comfortably in bed sleeping, I would even dream of knee being perfect then wake up and be disappointed, lol
I'm confused. At 1:40 you said 'Welcome to my 6 mos. total knee update..". Yet the title and at other places it seems you're only at 6 weeks. Fyi I had excruciating pain at about 6 weeks trying to get my knee to bend to about 115- 120. And there is no way I was able to hike except from one end of the house to the other. Now at 3 months I'm finally able to hike a little, about 2 miles or so. I'm 75, but was very active before this. The only possible thing I might have done wrong was not start bending earlier, but in spite of the meds and constant icing, the swelling was horrible. Anyway, I'm glad you had little pain and your recovery went so well.
Sorry I misspoke. This was actually 6 weeks after surgery and I’m still going strong! Got some backpacking trips planned for the summer. I hope you’re progressing well too!
@@ApeMan Boy, you made excellent progress! I'm at 3 months and took my first 2 mile hike, and was surprised I could go that far. You seem to love all the things I do. Can't wait to get back into regular hiking. I'm going to give your knee brace a try.
You must heal pretty well-you don't seem to have much of a visible scar! I'm hardly a leg model, but I hope I heal as good as you. I'm having my tkr on Monday, May 18th-was supposed to have it on April 6th, but of course, that was postponed due to COVID19. I am hoping I can get away with walking, for post op therapy, as I hate riding stationary bikes! They hurt my hips (I also have some back problems). I work in a factory, walking at least 5 miles a shift. I tried synvisc-that worked great in my left knee. The Dr said it would work for 6 months-I'm going on a year and a half. The right knee began to hurt, was very stiff, and I got a shot of synvisc in that knee, hoping for the same great results. The synvisc didn't do a darn thing, this time! So, into surgery I go. I am thinking of getting the other knee done, after I recover from the right knee surgery. I love to walk, and walk fast. There are a few wonderful wilderness parks near me, and a huge dog park also, and I haven't been able to see any of them, this spring. The inactivity is really making life boring! I hope I'm as active as you are, at 6 weeks post surgery! Great little film! Thanks!
Karen Baker My hairy legs hide the scar but it did heal well. Good luck on your surgery. You should be on the trails by fall. Have that be your goal and work hard on your pt and flexibility and you can meet that goal.
Glad to see you are getting better. I'm not far behind you and downhills have been hurting my knees lately. I'm going to take some advice from backpacking maniac Joey Coconato, lunges, dead lifts, some light squats (maybe) and more hiking. Keep up the hard work and have some fun .
hi terry I have a real stupid question but you might know the answer. I viewed a video, don't think it was one of yours, that recommend to use coffee filter for something, I took several filters out to my gear but for the life of me don't remember what they are for. it terrible getting old and cant remember shit lol
@@ApeMan thank you. Im supposed to be going to Hawaii on July 7 - only three weeks away and I'm freaking out. My doctor told me that I should be OK he said that before the surgery because I asked him if I should have the surgery after I get back from Hawaii. So I'm trying to really push it so that I will have half of a good time at least lol. PT is excruciating for me!
Every one is different ,I had excrutiating pain for two weeks and at 4 weeks still have bad pain at night in spite of meds...no whim but this is aweful,never again.It doesnt help to compare to others who can get away easily
You are right. It is different for everyone. Eventually most people heal and the pain subsides. A lot of people say never again but after they recover they are willing to get the other knee done. I'm doing my other knee next winter. Good luck.
No not from my experience and I have had 4 knee surgeries. You pedal forward as far as you can comfortably. If you can't make it around then you pedal backwards as far as you can. Eventually you will make it all the way around but your pain level will dictate how far you should go. It does hurt more going forward at first but eventually you will get there and it's all downhill from there. Not sure about all knee surgery types but when I had an ACL reconstruction I was told specifically to not pedal backwards.
I’m a very occasional user of indica gummies. A buddy introduced them to me in a backpacking trip. Wake up refreshed with no side effects. One at bedtime gives me a solid 6 hrs of sleep. For work if I need a good nights sleep they work great!
I am 46 and have had three surgeries on my left knee over the the last 20 years to repair PCL and ACL along with torn meniscus. I was told I have arthritis in the knee as well. Is 46 too young to get a knee replacement and how could I persuade the dr to do the surgery since I stay in pain a lot
If it's preventing you from doing things and is very painful it ma be time. I would try anti inflamitories and synvisc injections and delay it a few years. When you are forced to use cortisone to stem the pain it is time. I waited 5 years too long but that's me. I like to climb mountains and backpack and it was getting hard. I can do that again because of my replacement.
When did you walk with one crutch then none,I'm in my 5th week and feel confident to walk one,enjoyed your videos,envy your Californian weather,bit damp and cold in NW England.
patrick prynn 70 degrees today and still wearing shorts! I’m a fast healer and very stubborn. I got rid of all waking aids after 2 weeks except for my hiking poles for trails. Keep using them as long as you need them. You need to be able to walk with a normal gait otherwise you can stress other parts of your body.
How did your knee feel before you had the replacement? I have some minor pain when walking, ect., but when I sit in a regular chair, or when I drive the burning hurts beyond words.
My knee was in really bad shape and hurt a lot. Probably waited 5 years too long for surgery. On the bright side the surgery and recovery were nothing since I was in so much pain before. I still tried to do everything but it got ridiculous. I've never had 2nd thoughts about the surgery.
It's at Sophia Parkway and Alexandria. You will see a green gate and 100 feet up the road you'll see some rocks and a trail. Just keep going uphill at junctions and soon you will be at what the high school kids call Heaven. Technically it's posted no trespassing but runners and mountain bikers use it regularly and I've never had a problem. It's a little rough and steep so you should wait a few weeks before trying it. Views are fantastic and it's a good workout. I just got back from a walk up and down just now. By Christmas you should be getting around pretty good and will want to start planning your summer backpacking trips. Don't over do it. For me the pain was minimal and very manageable but sleeping was a little hard the first couple weeks so get some good books lined up. No worries!
Thank you for these videos. Did you try anything like ZILRETTA before getting surgery? I'm looking to try a few more things before surgery. But I've never found anything that works. I'm using Volteran now but it doesn't seem to to do anything after two weeks of using it.
I tried everything to postpone surgery. In the end I think I waited 5 years too long. I couldn't fully extend my knee because of all the bone spurs growing out of the bone to bone contact. Surgery seemed easy to me because I was in so much pain before the knee replacement. I was back to work with no restrictions after two months but I'm a determined idiot who pushed it too hard without hurting myself luckily. 8 months after surgery I did a 38 mile fairly intense backpacking trip with no problem at all. Naproxen and Synvisk injections postponed it for a while. When I was getting cortisone injections to get through the day I knew it was time. Good luck!
So, 6 years later ... how’s it going? I’m 6 weeks post-op from full knee replacement. I still have a good bit of swelling and I’m having pain on both sides. When the swelling increases my pain increases which sounds logical to me. Lol Any update for 6 years later? Btw, what a beautiful area you are in!
I have several videos documenting my progress including my second knee. I am doing fantastic. No more swelling or ice and lots of hiking and backpacking problem free. No braces anymore either but I do use hiking sticks on trails. Good luck on your journey!
4 weeks into post and things were going good but a few days ago I have terrible pain when the knee moves laterally . im so bummd. I don't take anything but Tylenol because I ant take opioids or narcotics. .
Some people have pain much longer than others. I was lucky but have 2 friends that struggled for a couple months before their pain subsided. Good luck.
Wow u can do that already thats great. this is my 2nd mth after TKR and still walking very slow ,pain still there but less now . Constant exercises now with lockdown of covid 19 can't go out stuck at home .Only having problems at nite thats where the pain comes .wish i be walking like u right now .maybe for women its a slow recovery?
Everyday it will get a little better. Yes I remember sleeping was a challenge for 6 months. I created new sleeping positions. Side sleeping with my good leg on top bent where my knee touched the bed, with my surgery knee straight seemed to work for me.
I walked crooked for 20 years and am so glad I had the knee replacement done. One problem is that my sciatic nerve hurts from walking straight, I guess. I have got to find a way to relieve that sciatic nerve.
I'm a big believer in physical therapists. Maybe they can help you with stretching and exercises? I had to relearn to walk normally again and it's taken my muscles some time to adapt. I get some weird pains around my knee but I'm pain free when walking so I'm thrilled about that. I never realized how much pain I was in before surgery. It was 24/7 before surgery and now just some occasional twinges but I'm only 6.5 months post surgery and hoping it continues to get better. How long ago was your surgery? Hopefully things will improve over time.
I had it June 25th. I am back in my garden trying to plant some seeds for fall. It is so hot, I can only stand to be outside for 3 hrs. It is still around 90-100. I am so happy I finally got my knee operated on.
Hahaha! I like your new party trick! I had both knees done same day and am 4 weeks post op! [TKR]. Love the encouraging words from you, as I too feel that I am heading for a good recovery down the road! Just one question though, are there any exercises for the patella? Mine seem to be stationary and not moving around when trying to move them a bit, like before the surgery. There is still swelling on the surrounding area. A question I will ask my doctor when I see him in May. Thank you for sharing and keep up the great work.
Glad you are doing well. Happy to report both knees are doing fantastic for me. The swelling should subside over the next few months and the patella should move more but that’s a question for your doctor. Happy trails!
Hi. I'm almost 5 weeks after my TKR. Still stiff and sore at times. I wonder if you would care to share your email address so we could compare notes. BTW, I'm really impressed with your progress. Glen David, Durban, South Africa.
HI ApeMan ... just checking in to get a report on your knee and your recovery ? I have commented before, am a little behind you but have really appreciated your videos on the subject. They have been very helpful to me as I have gone through the process, thanks ! Both my knees robotic assisted TKRs. 1st knee done 18 weeks ago, 2nd knee 7 weeks ago. 1st knee just measured today -5 extension, 122 unassisted flexion, 2nd knee -3 extension, 121 unassisted flexion. Now working on BALANCE (who would have thought) and strength training. THIS IS A long recovery. Slow and Deliberate. It's hard to not be discouraged during the process. It takes time, just that simple. Still trying to do "steps" normally, but still not able to walk up or down steps w/o handrail assistance. Still dealing with swelling on the 2nd knee, 1st is pretty good. Still having difficultly w/fanthom pain on 2nd knee sleeping at night (that's a drag, took 10 weeks for the that to go away on the 1st knee). Walking is still NOT NORMAL feeling ... although my PT person says the gate looks really good. Still have 3 weeks left of offsite PT on the 2nd knee (although they are also dealing w/the 1st knee in conjunction). Overall end to arthritis pain in both knees (amazing!). Range of motion significantly better after surgeries (amazing!). I think this is a 12 month process to really feeling good. How are you feeling and how far out are you ? I live in SD so the the CA trails are on the schedule of 2019.
I will be in San Diego this weekend. Your flexion and extension are awesome so be happy with that. Everyone recovers at different rates. I do have to remind myself to walk correctly but I have no limp at all and people point that out to me. You are right - the arthritis pain is just gone. Isn't it amazing. It's replaced with other things. Getting used to the stiffness, swelling, and weird pains and yes especially the sleeping pains which I had for about the first 4-5 months. I feel great. I am 8 months out now and have no limitations. I'm kind of a freak and ignore pain so take this with a grain of salt. I was in so much pain before surgery for years and got used to it. My recovery seemed really easy because a week after surgery I was in way less pain than before surgery and it has only gotten better. I think a year is when everything will be amazing but I decided 6 months was long enough. I've been backpacking, playing full court basketball, running. Whatever I want. My swelling problem got way better after about 6 months but I still take Naproxen maybe once every other day but twice a day when hiking or backpacking. Did a pretty rough 35 mile backpacking trip in 4 days a month ago and the knee performed flawlessly except for a slight hyperextension on the last day that felt better within a day. I still think things are getting used to the new knee. I went to therapy just to work on flexion and extension and quit after 3 months. I'm around 120-125 and 0 and I'm fine with that. I have stairs in my house and I just had to do it without holding the rails and forced myself to get used to it. Obviously you never want to push yourself harder than the pain and discomfort tell you to. I am soon better off than pre surgery and it's still getting better. I hardly even think about my knee anymore which is when you know you are close. I don't baby it anymore and all the phantom pains and twinges are mostly gone. I get a sharp pain occasionally when I twist wrong but they are fewer and farther between. Hiking and backpacking are easier and more enjoyable now so I think by next summer the Sierra needs to be in your plans.
That's what I hear everywhere -- it takes at least a year to start truly feeling normal. hopeing you're doing much better in the meantime! I'm going in next Wed.for double TKR
It's pretty great right? Sorry I got it from a previous surgery many years ago and there are no labels on it. I would imagine a medical supply company would have something like it. I still use it all the time. Good luck!
I just have a Velcro strap on one which works fine. I like it because I can drive with it or wear it to bed. The circulating ice is great too but only useful the first week or so.
I am contemplating getting my knee replacement. Can you describe the pain you had prior to your knee replacement that caused you to make decision to proceed? The reason I ask is whether I should delay as long as possible but I have the fear that the delay may cause more injuries and make the operation difficult.
Mine was really bad and I delayed it probably 10 years too long. it was loose and would hyperextend. Also I could no longer straighten it so walked funny putting stress on my hips which started hurting. I still did everything but the pain got progressively worse and the swelling was really bad. Sleep became difficult as I had resting pain often. I trashed it pretty bad but you really can't make it worse but can injure other parts of your body. My final phase was steroids which helped delay it for a year or 2. I wanted to delay it as long as possible and I finally did it at 59. If you are 60 or over it's a no brainer. Do it! The operation is becoming routine but the rehab down time sucks. I was hiking after 3 months but 6 months to a year is more realistic. Some people are happy to just walk but I wanted more. I'm doing a 10 mile hike in the Sierra tomorrow. Don't really worry about it. It's not perfect or totally painless but I really enjoy it and can do it..slowly and carefully.
@@ApeMan Thank you for your response. I am just past 60, and I can still walk but I am definitely slowing down compared to my previous active life style. I had xray and ct-scan with both confirming osteoarthritis. I had steroid and then hyaluronic acid injections with temporary relief in pain but not enough to do things I used to do. I don't think I should be happy with the temporary relief and live with a slower life style. It's weighing me down to think this is the way it is for someone who is 60 something and beyond. I can continue with the hyaluronic acid injections but the combination of slowing down and the developing bow leg is not something I want to settle for. At least not this early. This is why your video is helpful. I think I am at the cross road or very close to it in needing to make that decision for the operation. Another question I have for you is both of my knees are feeling the pain. Did you do one knee only or both? Have you heard of any comments from others about the risk of doing both? On a lighter side, do you trigger the airport scanning machine every time? Thanks.
David I do not trigger airport machines. I’m getting my 2nd knee done in a few months. I did a difficult 20 mile hike in the mountains yesterday and it’s killing me. I hardly notice the replaced knee. You’ve done all you can. Get it done. Sounds like you were like me. I delayed it so long I was miserable but it got me used to pain and for me the recovery was easy. Some people don’t do as well. I have no 2nd thoughts on getting the other knee done. I will get it done in the winter and am confident I will be backpacking in the summer
@@ApeMan thank you, the most pain meds I take during the day is 650mg of Tylenol after a pt session with an ice pack to the knee for a bit. I will only take a 1 hour nap occasionally if I've had a horrible night. I went to the gym for the first time today and did some stationary bike (10min) and upper body weights. I've been feeling like a slug lately after being very physically active before the surgery 6 weeks ago. Hopefully it will help. I find myself waking up to severe spasms in my knee and leg and at my wits end.
Hang in there Ed. It may not seem like it but I bet you are getting a tiny bit better everyday. Sleep was hard for me too. Maybe talk to your doctor about different pain meds and something to help you sleep. I tried to limit naps so I would be tired at night. Music helped me sleep. Sitting in silence and being in pain and getting frustrated not being able to fall asleep drove me nuts. I tried lots of things with pillows and different positions to try and get comfortable. Side sleeping curled up with my hands or a pillow between my knees was a position that worked for me. Good luck on your recovery. I'm thrilled with my new knee.
They gave it to me at the hospital to go home with. I do like the way it straps on and I can move around with it. I still use it after hiking and tough days at work. Sorry I don't know where to get one.
I’m semi retired now but still working part time and I do some consulting arborist work. I worked the last 15 years in parks maintenance for a local town.
OmegaDirective Sure. Did you notice my emigrant loop backpacking trip which was about 8 months post surgery. No restrictions, and little pain or swelling. Still really happy with my results. I can even run again. I will try to get another video up in the next couple of weeks.
Erica flores Contreras Yes and no. The pain of bone on bone is completely gone. My overall pain level went from an 8 to a 1. More importantly I have confidence in my knee and can do whatever I want. Now my old worn out joint is still old and worn out. I’m a little stiff and when bending at 120 degrees plus it hurts a little. No resting pain or sleeping pain at all. After a 10 mile hiking day it of course swells up and is a little sore but nothing like before surgery. You get used to it and I really don’t even think about it much and don’t even ice it after hikes. Other people may have different results. I have a high pain tolerance and was in a lot of pain for a long time pre surgery so I’m very satisfied.
When do you aim to have your other knee done and what are the goals you have to signal this is ok? Thanks for a sensible and reassuring video. BTW I’m on day 12 of my TKR.
How is your TKR going? My doctor offered to do both knees but I thought it would be harder than it was. My signal is when I can no longer backpack because of excruciating pain. It just hurts now. I'm retiring in 2-3 years so it probably makes sense for me to do it before then so I can be on disability for 2 months.
Many thanks for taking the time to reply. I think Im making good progress and am very optimistic regarding recovery. Both my knees are in v. poor condition so as-soon-as I'm going for the other, in my head thats 4 months out; so in my case its not how bad it is, its how good my TKR side is. My surgeon is very much against doing both at the same time (I'm in the UK) and I can understand why, not least managing pain and the day to day needs of living. Thanks again and I'll look out for your updates, I find these and others very reassuring and a good overall benchmark of how I might be doing. Love the dog hike scene; mine is being looked after by friends pending a bit more mobility, maybe week 7 when Im driving. Gorgeous scenery.
Hello Ape Man, wondering how you are doing now with those knees; have you increased the distance and time hiking? I have Ostheoarthritis on both knees and will have my left one replaced on September. I love hiking and backpaking and look at you for inspiration. If you are doing so well,so will I, right? How long ago was your surgery, and how far can you hike/backpack now? Watching your videos for guidelines, helped me complete the JMT last August; I thank you for that. My next goal is the PCT in sections; but my Knees need replacing first. Once I get better I hope to backpack the PCT either in consecutive weekends, or whole sections at a time. Do you think is possible with the TKR? Thank you.
Use me as just an example of a good outcome. Everyone is different. I react differently to pain than you or others. I consider myself fully recovered 4.5 months after surgery and have resumed hiking with no limitations. I do still have some swelling and some pain but nothing compared to pre surgery. I already don't even think about it and it's better than my non surgical knee. I am confident I could complete a PCT hike on my new knee. Of course keeping my pack weight and body weight down is now required. I suffer from pretty severe foot arthritis as well so mostly have to stick to trails and avoid high impact stuff. Naproxen is always with me on hiking trips and I never pass up a cold soak in a stream or lake to help with swelling. I do have a friend who had his surgery before mine and he is not able to hike any distance stuff yet. I am planning on getting my 2nd knee replaced in a couple years and have every intention of doing lots of backpacking in my retirement. So far my new knee is really solid on hiking trails and I have no problems at all. I'm planning a normal hiking season this summer as time allows.
Definitely gonna leave a nice scar. It's pretty gnarly at first but is fading fast and will soon be hardly noticeable. One hip was bothering me a little because I was out of balance with a really bad knee before surgery. I can walk normally again and the hip problem vanished. I feel younger and am excited to get back to a lot of physical activities again. Of course backpacking without pain is a big plus but lots of daily things I can do pain free again. Just walking, on the job, sports and even some things in the bedroom. Pain sneaks up on you and makes life hard. If you are on the fence about doing it feel free to ask me more questions. I was in a ton of pain daily before surgery so for me the decision was easy and I have no second thoughts. I should have done it years ago.
I was sent home with that from an outpatient knee surgery on the other knee. It's some kind of gel filled thing and comes in handy. I haven't iced my knees in 2 months and the new knee does swell but other than that is doing well and very minimal pain. Ice would probably help with the swelling but it doesn't hurt and I'm lazy so I just take an anti inflammatory occasional and can pretty much do everything I want to.
6 weeks out and still having stiffness and pain. Very inspirational video. Thank you
Thank you so much for taking us on your knee surgery journey! I will be having RTKR in August (2022). Videos like yours really do help to give me confidence that I will also have a great recovery experience! I'm sure you're doing much better since 2018. (I haven't watched any of your other videos on hiking, but I will.) Thanks for the tips!
great to hear! I am having both done in a couple weeks. Actually doing the first (right knee) 1/25 and then doing the other 2 1/2 weeks later. I have a desk job, so I am hoping to be back to work a few weeks after the 2nd procedure. Very encouraging to see your progress, trying to figure out if I'm doing the right thing has been keeping me up at night. But, everyone I have talked to says it is worth it!
Great job Sir. My 74 year old father is 2 weeks pre surgery. He can't wait.
You are what can happen if a person does their rehab exercises every day.
I’m 74 too and plan on TKR for my right knee soon. Received a silicone shot (the third time over a recommended spacing period) yesterday and discussed the next step towards surgery. Waiting for the pre-lim team to call me so I can go in for the necessary for pre-op (weight, diabetes, etc.) info, testing and such. Been dealing with a bad right knee for years.
Just had tkr 28 days ago very painful I'm only at 70 degree angle....thanks for your video
How are things going?
Same here. I hardly had any pain and started light jog at six weeks. Thanks for the video.
I am 55 at 5 weeks post-op and this video is great! I too have pushed too far on occasion. Swelling and sleepless nights are my nemesis. I am doing my other knee at 12 weeks post op. I am bike riding and swimming daily. Stretching in the water is awesome. I love the new knee! Thanks for the compression sleeve idea.
I thought i was to young for a knee replacement, im 57 an headed to my knee replacement , in a few months, how did your recovery come along
I had right TKR six weeks ago. Drove at three weeks. I’m 73 years old had my left knee done 16 years ago. I’m doing 2 miles on the elliptical machine and walking in the neighborhood. 7-8,000 steps a day. One more week of PT. It takes 6 months to fully recover.
You’re doing great! It’s so worth it to get our lives back.
This is great Ape Man.
What everybody should know is that everybody recovers differently and at different rates. I'm 54 years old and I had my left knee replaced 14 months ago (Dec 2019) and it now feels great - no pain and range of motion is 125 degrees (flexion). I had a lot of swelling from day 1 but fought through it and did my exercises 3 times a day every day. I was able to complete a full rotation on the stationary bike under 3 weeks. I was off the walker and cane in just over 3 weeks. I'm very active (golfing, mountain biking, hiking) and some swelling was still there after 14 months. But no worries because the pain is completely gone! The swelling eventually went away completely when I had no choice but to rest for my second knee replacement (January 2021).
My right knee has already gone through several surgeries. The biggest one was a high tibial osteonomy about 11 years ago which bought me 11 more years before I had to go through with this total knee replacement. It's been almost 4 weeks now and I still have a lot of swelling. I cannot do a full rotation on the bike yet so I'm lagging behind in my progress when comparing to my first replacement but I know it will improve as the swelling goes away slowly. I was told that I may NOT have as great a range of motion with this knee as I've already had several surgeries which have contributed to scar tissue in the knee even before this knee replacement. I find the best exercise to do to gain maximum range of motion is biking but it will be at least another 7 or 8 months before I get max ROM. I'm hoping for at least 110 degrees.
To anyone going through this right now, DO NOT GIVE UP! It will get better but realize it will take some time. I was over a year before I could say that I was fully recovered and there was still some swelling, however, it would not stop me from doing anything. I'm so happy I have had these done. The pain is 100% gone in the first knee and hoping for similar results with the second. So far so good - the pain is gone.
Yup everyone is different. It takes work, time and patience. I’m lucky both knees are working well with very little swelling.
I'm having my surgery Monday and watching this video gave me some insight in the after surgery healing. Thanks!
Joyce Waldron Good attitude and do the work and you will be fine. Good luck!
Yes. I was similar to you hardly had any pain I was actually walking without assistant device a week after the surgery. Everybody's different.
Thank you so much for your videos. I’m having TKR on 11/4 and my anxiety has been off the charts. I really appreciate your down to earth and honest comments regarding your experience . I think I will be able to push thru this experience after watching your journey. Thank you again.
Laurie Kall Let us know how you are doing. Hope you have a smooth recovery!
I am now almost 8 weeks post op and starting to feel normal. I’ve been doing PT (at home and outside) since 11/5 and am making good progress...bending over 100 degrees, but need to do better. I’m going back to work on 1/13, so I’m hoping for a bit more improvement by then. Sleep is getting better; just icing some residual shin and calf pain. It is a process and I’m happy to see light at the end of the tunnel; thank you for asking!
@@lauriekall5235 Thanks for the update. Congrats on having the worst behind you. You should feel more and more normal and soon rarely even think about your knee anymore. Keep working on that flexion!
@@lauriekall5235 I'm having my tkr on Monday. The surgeon suggested I watch some of these videos-this wasn't one of them, but its in with the others, and it looked like a good one. Glad to now you're on the mend!
Karen Baker Good luck with your surgery and the best advice I can give you is have patience. It is a process and not a short one. I’m now 6 mths out from my surgery and it is doing great!
Very Interesting , I had my 1st knee replacement at 50 , all very similar as yourself with recovery. Lasted 14 years and had it replaced a second time as the knee came loose. I am 3 years into my new knee and all is perfect . It was a lot easier 2nd time round and was great getting back on the golf course after a short lay up . Let’s hope all is still going well for you
Still going strong and doing lots of backpacking and hiking. Good to hear the replacement not so bad because I'm not holding back and the knee is working great.
thanks! I've been working my way backwards watching your videos. Very useful. Thanks for your generosity.
Well done! Just about to have my second knee replacement...cripes! For me, the most painful part was night-time...roll on 6 months down the line...best wishes from Wales UK...
Good luck on your journey…and sleeping better!
Fabulous. Thank you, I’m due to have my knee op on the 4th February, I can’t wait to take long walks 🙏💚☘️
I'd say this man's experience is far from typical. You'll likely be very disappointed if you expect to be hiking within weeks. I'm at 5 weeks, pain is not under control and I cannot walk far. Maybe i'm at the other extrene to him but even he asks l admits many others have more pain and stiffness than him.
Thanks for this. I'm having TKR next week and it's good to hear other people's experiences.
Love ur dog. I am just past four weeks doing well but still pretty swollen and sensitive scar but I'm walking without a cane. I also need other knee done. Thanks for doing these videos.
You are supposed to use a walker for longer than that
How long did you have to take the pain meds?
I had bilateral knee replacement on February 7th, so 3 weeks. Used a walker the first week, now a cane. Sleep is hard, on my back,ugh! My left knee is pretty good, but my right knee is having a tough time bending. No more pain meds unless I'm going to physio. I'm hoping to be as good as you. Glad I did both knees at the same time. Learning so much. Looking forward to walking pain free. Thanks for the video, from Toronto.
It took me about 6 weeks before I got the sleep thing down. Experiment with new positions until you find one that works. I was always a stomach sleeper but now I prefer to sleep on my side with my knees bent. The worst is over - good luck to you!
That's me in one week -- I need these videos and comments like yours to quell my anxiety. I get around okay, but my arthritis is making it impossible for me to do my active job, which I want to keep doing. So: here goes! I hope you are doing just great in the meantime. Wish me luck!
Going in shortly for right replacement. Thanks for your video, it gives a relevant explanation of the surgery.
Good luck! Do your rehab work and you will be amazed with the results. First couple weeks suck but it’s all good after that
@@ApeMan Thanks. It’s my right knee which has worn out as I am a left bk amputee. I have high hopes for 5he surgery. Take care.
Hi I'm close to them and nearly 7 weeks Post op and I returned to my job thus week and I stand all day also 🤟
I am six weeks post-op and I am feeling and doing very well, much better than I thought I would after a total knee replacement. Following the guidance and recommendations of my healthcare team and having my own home gym have help speed my recovery. I've got good range of motion and starting to crank up my strength training this week. Thanks for sharing your story!
Well done!
Getting my TKR soon & getting a little anxious now, so thank you for such a positive video 👍
I hope my recovery is as good as yours 🤞
Strengthen the muscles in your leg as much as you can before surgery. I won't lie and there are some tough days but a positive attitude and doing the exercises religiously will help with a faster recovery. Good luck to you!
Ape Man thank you 👍 I will
I enjoyed your video. I’m 13 days into my journey of bi-lateral knee replacements. Yes, I got both done at the same time. I’m walking with the walker- still hurting some when standing trying to use my knees/legs. I’m still quite swollen and on pain meds. I just got home last night from being 1 week in an inpatient rehab hospital - I had to manage everything on my own- ADLs and PT. I am looking for the day I can hike and get around with minimal instability. Thank you for sharing your journey
Congrats on having the worst behind you! It's all downhill from here! Good luck!
So glad I found your video .even though it's the 3rd of April 2020:-) we are in lockdown here in New Zealand ,I had my total knee replacement 2 weeks ago..and ha a rotten day yesterday,,this morning better ,and just thought I'd look up some one who's been there,,ever so helpful.and the letters sent to you,,I have had both hips and other knee done ,but this time there's more pain,but I'm persevering with the exercises,as you say so important,evr so please to see someone how's pushed through the pain and moved on to the happyer days ,,thanks heaps for taking the time to do the video :-)
Lockdown here in California too! Good time to work on flexion and extension! I'm hoping to do some pretty intense backpacking trips this summer when this virus is beaten. Best of luck on your journey and be safe.
What a great recovery. So glad you can keep hiking.
Hey Bro I feel your pain, right knee replaced 4 years in Aug. and one year in June for the left knee, the bad part for me was the weight gain with the bad knees. Took up hiking after the first operations for rehab, and fell in love with it, then left knee went bad and had to stop, now after my second surgery I'm back hiking again, like you starting about two miles a hike and working my way up, it will get better and stronger I promise, keep up the good work.
Love to hear good news stories, thanks! I used to run a lot to stay in shape and have missed that. I got fatter as well so I have to look for other ways to keep the pounds off. I typically lose 1 pound a day on backpacking trips but that is not a healthy way to lose weight! I have a gym membership and just have to start using it! Glad to hear you are back hiking again. It's more enjoyable than the gym.
Oh yeah I hate the gym, so boring, since you live in Calif. if your ever in the Orland area look me up, would love to take you around the trails of Black Butte Lake.
I’m having TKR next Tuesday. I LOVE your channel. I did the Kearsarge Pass hike 2 years ago on a very arthritic knee. Before my knee got so bad, I booked a trip for September to Yosemite to do the Panorama trail. I guess I’ll be lucky to do baby hikes. Still, you give me hope.
Shelley Kresan You will be surprised and I think you will be hiking again soon! Good luck!
Hi again Ape Man,
I had my TKR on sept 10, 2019. It was rough! My pain meds messed me up and I ended up in the ER. Then I went to rehab. I’ve done everything I could to feel better and deal with everything. I am doing much better now. I don’t regret anything, and I pray things continue to go well. Your videos were helpful and hopeful, and I thank you for sharing your story with all of us. Hope you are doing well.
I had TKR on 9/23 to be honest, it has been a slow painful process. I do not get any sleep at night because of the pain. I do therapy daily at home and twice a week in the office. I was not aware the healing process would take so long. I was hoping I would be back to the office by now but I’m truly grateful my company has allowed me to work from home. For me, I think the pain and swelling and not getting any sleep, is the most challenging part of the procedure.
ad Lopez I understand how you feel about pain at night and getting your sleep. If your knee is swelling then elevate and ice. I massage my thigh muscles front & back twice a day with Biofreeze. I massage my scar with vitamin e oil twice a day. I also am wearing a knee brace half an hour three times a day. It’s very time consuming, but I know it will pay off. Don’t be afraid to take your pain meds especially at night- it will help you sleep better. My therapist said it will be at least three months before I’ll get a good night’s sleep. I also take a sleep aid-and it helps.
Don’t lose faith, do the exercises, take your meds, and stay home to work as long as you need to.
As I say my prayers, I will pray for your speedy recovery too.
Diane Columbus
Thank you Diane. I appreciate your advice. I have recently added a sleep aid in addition to the pain meds at night. It has helped tremendously! I have asked my doctor for a topical cream to help with the pain. He prescribed Voltaren gel. I use it 4 times a day. I also wear a brace for support. I continue with therapy and can see progress but, honestly the healing process is slow and painful. Again Thank you. God Bless!
My wife had her first knee done 8-8-19 she didn't have any problems with the pain meds. Had her other knee done 1-28-20 pain meds. have been making her sick. Same meds.
@@adlopez177 I just started to try sleeping on my side. I cant but its a few mins of luxury, so I will take it. I hope all goes well for you. Keep stretching, you wont regret it, I know its hard. But PUSH PUSH PUSH!! I am pulling for all of us.
Thank you sir for giving me the courage to have my knee surgery! I want my life back too!! I've been putting it off with steroid injections, even thought of stem cell therapy! Thank God I saw your videos and thank you again!!
So did you already have the surgery?
Not yet, on May 15th I have an appt to have an injection of some sort of jell in my right knee!! Trying everything first before the surgery but know deep down it will require surgery! I just watched your 1 year video, you are a role model for lots of folks!! Thank you for responding!!
Sounds like you are getting euflexxa or synvisc injections. They work well for some and not at all for others. They helped me a lot and I got in a few years of backpacking before I had to do the TKR. You should try to keep your real knee for as long as possible but if it's making your life miserable then it's time to consider TKR. Good luck!
I did my surgeries close together and the first knee was awesome. However, you put a lot of weight on the other leg, so its like starting over again. Not sure which leg was worse. But now that I am 2 weeks out of my left leg....I can finally get up alone, I should have someone behind me going up the steps....I have been have a few bathroom incidents because I cant make it, but every day its getting better. I have lots of pictures. I will see if I can post them. So 1rst surgery was Dec 17th 2nd surgery March 3 and I start outpatient therapy on Tuesday. I have been asking friends if I can borrow their stationery bike....NO ONE IS ANSWERING ME, as normal. Good Luck on your next surgery!!
I am proud of you. I can’t wait till I reach the 6 weeks. I can’t sleep at night it’s itching inside my operated knee. Thank you for sharing.
Sleeping was my biggest problem. I found sleeping on my side with a pillow between my legs was a good sleeping position. Try to limit your naps do you are tired at night. It will get a little better each day.
Glad for him.. I'm 5 weeks out and I doing really good.
How you doing know how old are you ???
I’m doing great now I only have a 90 degree bend but I was already told that before the surgery cause I had so much damage. I was 38 when my surgery was done a year and half ago
@@yolandanelson8987 Glad to hear you are doing well!
Hi, well i had my knee replacement 1 year ago and i totally agree, i was in the swimming pool on 7th week of operation doing exercises and It helped enormously, yes its a painfull operation but the relief afterwards and being able to do the stairs and normal Activity without pain Is great, the only thing Is that i have a Little problema kneeling on that knee but other than that i would re do
A few years ago I lost a good friend to total knee surgery while having both knees replaced. He passed away after the surgery due to a blot clot. Scared me off from surgery, but after struggling to walk properly with my bum right knee for so long I decided to start the processes of having surgery.
That sounds very much like my father. He died after both having both knees replaced and a blood clot in recovery. That was almost 25 years ago. I’ve been scared too, but I think I will “buck up” and get it done in a couple of months. :)
This vid is very encouraging for me!
Thanks for the video I've just reached week 5 also doing great But can't get over 110 bend yet and also 5 in extension . you've inspired me to get outside and walking ...... Thanks so much. Annie
Glad to hear you are doing well. 5 and 110 at 5 weeks is awesome so don't worry about it. Keep the swelling under control and get out and start using it. I think my stationary bike helps me the most but it's not as much fun as getting out and walking. As the song goes: "Annie Let's Not Wait!" Listen to your physical therapist - not some random internet guy! Good luck!
I'm doing my knee in a few weeks, hoping all goes well....
You got this. First week sucks a little but all downhill after that. Good luck!
@@ApeMan I'm into my second week and you we're right, the first week was horrible...nothing but pain and swelling...getting better I'm at 60 degrees and can walk around without the aid of a Walker
Glad to see that you are doing well! Keep it up. I hope to see you on the trails this summer. My wife had a knee replacement 18 months ago and she is doing well. She may have the other one done this fall.
I'm 3 months post op and feel I could do a short backpacking trip now. Maybe in June. Glad to hear your wife is doing well.
The only thing wrong with this video is that everybody is different. Don’t think that because you are not as far along that it means you aren’t working at it as hard.
You are absolutely right. I try to mention in my knee videos that everyone will heal and progress at a different pace. I've had a good result and I hope I haven't been overly optimistic to the point of causing others to think they aren't progressing fast enough. I do believe attitude does play a huge role as a part of the process. Everyone will have setbacks but you just have to start everyday and do the best that you can but it's okay to have down days and not do the exercises and everything else occasionally. But you have to bounce back and say screw it - I can do this. Then before you know it a couple months go by from your surgery date and things do suddenly start getting better. Thanks for the reminder that is so true.
He’s not wrong. He’s just sharing his experience and he’s inspiring all of us.
@Ape Man, this is his experience, not anyone else's. #Dumb
09.i@@GoArmy87
Eliter9293 Im 6 weeks post op and finished physical therapy My extension is at 0 and flexion is at 131. Im a personal trainer 66 years old and headed back to work soon. Feeling great no real issues
Kenneth DeTone 131 is awesome! You are an example of someone who is in shape and knows the work to recover. Better and faster outcomes if you are in shape before surgery. Congrats on your smooth and speedy recovery!
I am 9 weeks out. Still having a lot of pain. At four weeks was better. Thinking I am doing to much. Everyone is different. He is saying everyone should be where he is no way. Everyone is different. Don’t over do it it takes time to heal. Up to a year.
Yes definitely everyone is different! It does take up to a year to heal. I’m blessed to be a fast healer. I’m 10 months out on my 2nd replacement and it’s been better than the first. Never ignore the pain and push to hard. Good luck you are almost there!
Thank you for sharing, you have done a really good job of recovering from post op.I feel more confident going into my surgery. Great job and happy hiking!
John
Thanks John. Attitude is 90% and pain meds can help with the other 10%. The whole process was much easier than expected and I'm so excited to be walking normally again. I actually feel younger. Good luck with your surgery!
Congratulations and well done
Had knee replacment 6 wks ago walking without any sticks after 2wks my problem is a burning sensation in the night hard time sleeping .
I have my knee replacement 2days from now on nov 28th - then booked to fly from Uk to India on jan 21st (so need to sort my physio !!)
@@snoozie299 Good luck. You should be good to go by January 21st. Work hard on your physical therapy and hang in there!
Ape Man, I'm glad that you have recovered well from your surgery. I had both knees replaced in November of last year, and l have completely recovered. Thanks for your inspiration.
Great news! I'm tired of folks telling me I'm crazy-brave to do both knees at once, when it simply makes sense to go thru Hell only once, since they are similarly damaged. 😀 I'm hoping to have similarly good results, though I know it's going to be tough going. But my docs are super-involved and confident, so I'm trying to keep a stiff upper lip.
You had a great doctor, I'm 15 weeks out barely can walk at all
Pain is still incredible 5-6 ALWAYS no relief
Never sleep more then 4 hours
Inflammation is incredible got better for a bit now much worse
Feel like my whole body is infected
Doc say just wait it will get better
He sucks
I work out 3-4 days a week at YMCA all with replacement doing better then me
I'm no expert but I've always recovered pretty quickly so may have set an overly optimistic recovery. I think it's pretty normal to be in a lot of pain for a few weeks but 15 sounds terrible. I think the pain will go away but actually I think it's more important at your stage to continue working on flexion and extension even though it hurts. If you are at least at 90 I wouldn't worry too much but you want to get to 120 at least - the sooner the better. You just have to power through this and follow up with your doctor if it doesn't get a little better week to week. Hang in there!
Oh Robert you have my understanding and sympathy! I'm 4wks out and on morphine patches that are doing nothing. I'm only able to sleep with a painkiller & sedative last thing at night. Without them I regularly awake during the night in tears from the pain. I do my exercises every day but despite the fact that I'm able to get around ok with my walker or pushing the pram the pain is shocking. My GP commented how red & hot it is but as I don't have a fever it obviously isn't infected but gave me anti-b's anyway which come with their own list of side effects. I keep looking at others and reading such positive comments about their recovery and wondering if there's something wrong with me?
Perhaps you should go to a different doctor for help. Your situation needs attention.
I'm 3 weeks post op tomorrow. Pain is horrible sometimes. I can straighten perfectly but I can only bend about 75 to 80. It hurts trying to do more but hopefully it hurts less after swelling goes down more.
It will get a little better everyday. You have bad days where it seems it won’t get better but it will over time. Take your meds and work as hard as you can but be patient. Find exercises you enjoy. For me I loved the stationary bike. Good luck!
Im 59 yrs old.Im on my 2 months unilateral knee replacement on right knee . I can walk with my cane . . already and now start new life
New Technolgy advance healing process with physical therapy and faith positive thoughts I had ....
I can walk freely without pain.
Congratulations! When you start physical therapy my first goal would be to work with the therapist to get rid of the cane and try to have an as normal gait as you can. We have to retrain all our muscles and ligaments after surgery and the sooner the better. I played full court basketball last week with no ill effects. Probably not a good idea but it was fun. Everybody is different but I'm in the camp where you push it a little but not too much. Your pain level will be your guide. Good luck!
Wow amazing I'm still struggling had knee replacement August 27th and a MUA October 13th very slow recovery alot of swelling and inflammation after my MUA my leg blew up like a balloon
Sorry to hear that. Your doctor and physical therapist should be able to help you.
I’m at 8 weeks out and I’m doing about the same. I feel pretty good about it snd my knee makes noise too! I’m glad you mentioned it, because I thought it was really weird! My other knee replacement didn’t make any noise! 🤣
Thanks Ape Man, I'm at 7 weeks and am about the same extension and flexion as you are. I was thinking I was way behind but I think I'll stop stressing so much about it.
Your videos have really helped me in my recovery. Thanks so much!
It gets better every week. The hard part is over. Go pick out some running shoes!
Hello Ape man. Your on the right track. Keep Pushing yourself !! I'm our 6 weeks like you and I have been pushing myself beyond pain I'm at 0% extend and flex is at 130 degrees. No cane. The more you push the better it gets. Keep up the good work !!
Wow 130 is really good. I'm around 125 and can do most anything. I'm 10 months post op now and the knee is great. I can hike and backpack and even have played a little full court basketball. I always pushed it harder than I should have but I have to be careful being on the internet and not have someone hurt themselves. I'm a sucker for pain and go by the mantra if it's not hurting then you aren't pushing hard enough. Good luck - sounds like you are doing great.
@@ApeMan thanks for your replay sounds like your really doing great. As of now I'm going on 6 weeks. I'm biggest thing is the pain I have at night when I try to sleep. But from what I hear the pain goes away around 5 or 6 months. That's something I won't miss. Thanks and good luck my friend.
I am 6 weeks out in 2 days...not doing hiking...maybe a mile walk at a time. I have about 120 degrees flexion now and they think I am doing pretty well!
Sounds like you are doing great. A little better every day! I'm climbing the 3rd highest mountain in California in 2 weeks. The knee is great!
hi terry glad to see your recovery still going great.. keep it up and and you will be as good as new. from my experience don't forget to do exercise your right knee also that way it stays strong and will be beneficial when you have it replaced. it helped with mine
Thanks Terry! I do a lot of physical labor in my daily job so that helps me a lot in keeping my strength up. I've favored one side so long it's exciting to be in balance again so I'm looking forward to getting in shape again. Planning on biking and hitting the gym more often. You are right on about being in shape before surgery!
hi terry have a silly question I viewed a video, not yours, that had a use for coffee filters. took filters out to my gear weeks ago but for the life of me cannot remember what they were to be used for. do you have any idea what it could be. sucks getting old and cant remember shit. lol
Only thing I can think of is to use them as a pre-filter for silty water before treating with a water filter or steripen. The cartridge filters like the swayers can clog pretty fast if you use water with a lot of silt in it. The water along the JMT is so clear it's easy to find good water. Very few times have I had to resort to something like that but when I have a bandana or dirty sock works - yum!
thanks terry, what ever it was had nothing to do with filtering. if I figure it out I will let you know. for some reason I think it had to do with sanitary issues how's the knee? I remember it taking a long time to be able to move comfortably in bed sleeping, I would even dream of knee being perfect then wake up and be disappointed, lol
Good job
Knee replacement pchhi ketla samay sudhi therapy jruri chhe
I'm confused. At 1:40 you said 'Welcome to my 6 mos. total knee update..". Yet the title and at other places it seems you're only at 6 weeks. Fyi I had excruciating pain at about 6 weeks trying to get my knee to bend to about 115- 120. And there is no way I was able to hike except from one end of the house to the other. Now at 3 months I'm finally able to hike a little, about 2 miles or so. I'm 75, but was very active before this. The only possible thing I might have done wrong was not start bending earlier, but in spite of the meds and constant icing, the swelling was horrible. Anyway, I'm glad you had little pain and your recovery went so well.
Sorry I misspoke. This was actually 6 weeks after surgery and I’m still going strong! Got some backpacking trips planned for the summer. I hope you’re progressing well too!
@@ApeMan Boy, you made excellent progress! I'm at 3 months and took my first 2 mile hike, and was surprised I could go that far. You seem to love all the things I do. Can't wait to get back into regular hiking. I'm going to give your knee brace a try.
You must heal pretty well-you don't seem to have much of a visible scar! I'm hardly a leg model, but I hope I heal as good as you. I'm having my tkr on Monday, May 18th-was supposed to have it on April 6th, but of course, that was postponed due to COVID19. I am hoping I can get away with walking, for post op therapy, as I hate riding stationary bikes! They hurt my hips (I also have some back problems). I work in a factory, walking at least 5 miles a shift. I tried synvisc-that worked great in my left knee. The Dr said it would work for 6 months-I'm going on a year and a half. The right knee began to hurt, was very stiff, and I got a shot of synvisc in that knee, hoping for the same great results. The synvisc didn't do a darn thing, this time! So, into surgery I go. I am thinking of getting the other knee done, after I recover from the right knee surgery. I love to walk, and walk fast. There are a few wonderful wilderness parks near me, and a huge dog park also, and I haven't been able to see any of them, this spring. The inactivity is really making life boring! I hope I'm as active as you are, at 6 weeks post surgery! Great little film! Thanks!
Karen Baker My hairy legs hide the scar but it did heal well. Good luck on your surgery. You should be on the trails by fall. Have that be your goal and work hard on your pt and flexibility and you can meet that goal.
Glad to see you are getting better. I'm not far behind you and downhills have been hurting my knees lately. I'm going to take some advice from backpacking maniac Joey Coconato, lunges, dead lifts, some light squats (maybe) and more hiking. Keep up the hard work and have some fun .
hi terry I have a real stupid question but you might know the answer. I viewed a video, don't think it was one of yours, that recommend to use coffee filter for something, I took several filters out to my gear but for the life of me don't remember what they are for. it terrible getting old and cant remember shit lol
im 68, a woman and 4 weeks out for a partial knee replacement and having a hard time. Im only at 90 degrees. Its hurts like hell!
Sorry but the worst should be over. Keep doing your exercises and good luck!
@@ApeMan thank you. Im supposed to be going to Hawaii on July 7 - only three weeks away and I'm freaking out. My doctor told me that I should be OK he said that before the surgery because I asked him if I should have the surgery after I get back from Hawaii. So I'm trying to really push it so that I will have half of a good time at least lol. PT is excruciating for me!
Very helpful
Every one is different ,I had excrutiating pain for two weeks and at 4 weeks still have bad pain at night in spite of meds...no whim but this is aweful,never again.It doesnt help to compare to others who can get away easily
You are right. It is different for everyone. Eventually most people heal and the pain subsides. A lot of people say never again but after they recover they are willing to get the other knee done. I'm doing my other knee next winter. Good luck.
Looks like the dog needed a nap!
I heard that at first when using the exercise bike you pedal backwards.
No not from my experience and I have had 4 knee surgeries. You pedal forward as far as you can comfortably. If you can't make it around then you pedal backwards as far as you can. Eventually you will make it all the way around but your pain level will dictate how far you should go. It does hurt more going forward at first but eventually you will get there and it's all downhill from there. Not sure about all knee surgery types but when I had an ACL reconstruction I was told specifically to not pedal backwards.
What do you take for falling asleep
I’m a very occasional user of indica gummies. A buddy introduced them to me in a backpacking trip. Wake up refreshed with no side effects. One at bedtime gives me a solid 6 hrs of sleep. For work if I need a good nights sleep they work great!
@@ApeManI’m 10 weeks out and these saved my life. I can finally sleep again! It was so hard the first 3 weeks.
I am 46 and have had three surgeries on my left knee over the the last 20 years to repair PCL and ACL along with torn meniscus. I was told I have arthritis in the knee as well. Is 46 too young to get a knee replacement and how could I persuade the dr to do the surgery since I stay in pain a lot
If it's preventing you from doing things and is very painful it ma be time. I would try anti inflamitories and synvisc injections and delay it a few years. When you are forced to use cortisone to stem the pain it is time. I waited 5 years too long but that's me. I like to climb mountains and backpack and it was getting hard. I can do that again because of my replacement.
I am 7 weeks still with a lot of pain, hard to sleep, it is a nightmare
Hang in there it should get better. JI just did a 10 mile hike 2 days ago with no I’ll effects.
On the 6 week mark, when you I stand my knee doesnt hurt at all, but it takes a step or 2 before I can put weight on it without pain?
Things are still settling down after the trauma of surgery at 6 weeks. Hopefully the pain subsides over time.
Hi , How is it your Knee now after 5 Years ?
Fantastic. No pain or swelling and I no longer use compression braces. Did back to back 10 mile hikes the last two days with no I’ll affects.
When did you walk with one crutch then none,I'm in my 5th week and feel confident to walk one,enjoyed your videos,envy your Californian weather,bit damp and cold in NW England.
patrick prynn 70 degrees today and still wearing shorts! I’m a fast healer and very stubborn. I got rid of all waking aids after 2 weeks except for my hiking poles for trails. Keep using them as long as you need them. You need to be able to walk with a normal gait otherwise you can stress other parts of your body.
How did your knee feel before you had the replacement? I have some minor pain when walking, ect., but when I sit in a regular chair, or when I drive the burning hurts beyond words.
My knee was in really bad shape and hurt a lot. Probably waited 5 years too long for surgery. On the bright side the surgery and recovery were nothing since I was in so much pain before. I still tried to do everything but it got ridiculous. I've never had 2nd thoughts about the surgery.
Where is that hill in EDH? Looks like a good rehab hike. Surgery Dec. 4. Watched your videos again for inspiration.
It's at Sophia Parkway and Alexandria. You will see a green gate and 100 feet up the road you'll see some rocks and a trail. Just keep going uphill at junctions and soon you will be at what the high school kids call Heaven. Technically it's posted no trespassing but runners and mountain bikers use it regularly and I've never had a problem. It's a little rough and steep so you should wait a few weeks before trying it. Views are fantastic and it's a good workout. I just got back from a walk up and down just now. By Christmas you should be getting around pretty good and will want to start planning your summer backpacking trips. Don't over do it. For me the pain was minimal and very manageable but sleeping was a little hard the first couple weeks so get some good books lined up. No worries!
@@ApeMan Can you park there?
@@davidterrie7661 Yes - you can park on the shoulder. I would start off with something level and work your way up to heaven.
How's the knee doing sir
It's doing so well I'm getting the other one done in a couple of months.
Thank you for these videos. Did you try anything like ZILRETTA before getting surgery? I'm looking to try a few more things before surgery. But I've never found anything that works. I'm using Volteran now but it doesn't seem to to do anything after two weeks of using it.
I tried everything to postpone surgery. In the end I think I waited 5 years too long. I couldn't fully extend my knee because of all the bone spurs growing out of the bone to bone contact. Surgery seemed easy to me because I was in so much pain before the knee replacement. I was back to work with no restrictions after two months but I'm a determined idiot who pushed it too hard without hurting myself luckily. 8 months after surgery I did a 38 mile fairly intense backpacking trip with no problem at all. Naproxen and Synvisk injections postponed it for a while. When I was getting cortisone injections to get through the day I knew it was time. Good luck!
How old are you? I am one week out and doing great.
Good luck on your recovery! I m 62 1/2 and going strong (knock on wood)
So, 6 years later ... how’s it going?
I’m 6 weeks post-op from full knee replacement. I still have a good bit of swelling and I’m having pain on both sides. When the swelling increases my pain increases which sounds logical to me. Lol
Any update for 6 years later? Btw, what a beautiful area you are in!
I have several videos documenting my progress including my second knee. I am doing fantastic. No more swelling or ice and lots of hiking and backpacking problem free. No braces anymore either but I do use hiking sticks on trails. Good luck on your journey!
Where did you get the ice wrap?
They sent it home with me after my surgery
4 weeks into post and things were going good but a few days ago I have terrible pain when the knee moves laterally . im so bummd. I don't take anything but Tylenol because I ant take opioids or narcotics. .
Some people have pain much longer than others. I was lucky but have 2 friends that struggled for a couple months before their pain subsided. Good luck.
THANKS. This is knee # 2 for me and I know it will get better.
What is the name of the ice pack brace you have. If you could give some info on that ice pack it would be nice. Thumbs up
It was just something they sent me home with from the hospital. The liquid ice machines are best but insurance doesn't cover those.
Wow u can do that already thats great. this is my 2nd mth after TKR and still walking very slow ,pain still there but less now . Constant exercises now with lockdown of covid 19 can't go out stuck at home .Only having problems at nite thats where the pain comes .wish i be walking like u right now .maybe for women its a slow recovery?
Everyday it will get a little better. Yes I remember sleeping was a challenge for 6 months. I created new sleeping positions. Side sleeping with my good leg on top bent where my knee touched the bed, with my surgery knee straight seemed to work for me.
I walked crooked for 20 years and am so glad I had the knee replacement done. One problem is that my sciatic nerve hurts from walking straight, I guess. I have got to find a way to relieve that sciatic nerve.
I'm a big believer in physical therapists. Maybe they can help you with stretching and exercises? I had to relearn to walk normally again and it's taken my muscles some time to adapt. I get some weird pains around my knee but I'm pain free when walking so I'm thrilled about that. I never realized how much pain I was in before surgery. It was 24/7 before surgery and now just some occasional twinges but I'm only 6.5 months post surgery and hoping it continues to get better. How long ago was your surgery? Hopefully things will improve over time.
I had it June 25th. I am back in my garden trying to plant some seeds for fall. It is so hot, I can only stand to be outside for 3 hrs. It is still around 90-100. I am so happy I finally got my knee operated on.
Hahaha! I like your new party trick! I had both knees done same day and am 4 weeks post op! [TKR]. Love the encouraging words from you, as I too feel that I am heading for a good recovery down the road! Just one question though, are there any exercises for the patella? Mine seem to be stationary and not moving around when trying to move them a bit, like before the surgery. There is still swelling on the surrounding area. A question I will ask my doctor when I see him in May. Thank you for sharing and keep up the great work.
Glad you are doing well. Happy to report both knees are doing fantastic for me. The swelling should subside over the next few months and the patella should move more but that’s a question for your doctor. Happy trails!
Hi. I'm almost 5 weeks after my TKR. Still stiff and sore at times. I wonder if you would care to share your email address so we could compare notes. BTW, I'm really impressed with your progress. Glen David, Durban, South Africa.
HI ApeMan ... just checking in to get a report on your knee and your recovery ? I have commented before, am a little behind you but have really appreciated your videos on the subject. They have been very helpful to me as I have gone through the process, thanks ! Both my knees robotic assisted TKRs. 1st knee done 18 weeks ago, 2nd knee 7 weeks ago. 1st knee just measured today -5 extension, 122 unassisted flexion, 2nd knee -3 extension, 121 unassisted flexion. Now working on BALANCE (who would have thought) and strength training. THIS IS A long recovery. Slow and Deliberate. It's hard to not be discouraged during the process. It takes time, just that simple. Still trying to do "steps" normally, but still not able to walk up or down steps w/o handrail assistance. Still dealing with swelling on the 2nd knee, 1st is pretty good. Still having difficultly w/fanthom pain on 2nd knee sleeping at night (that's a drag, took 10 weeks for the that to go away on the 1st knee). Walking is still NOT NORMAL feeling ... although my PT person says the gate looks really good. Still have 3 weeks left of offsite PT on the 2nd knee (although they are also dealing w/the 1st knee in conjunction). Overall end to arthritis pain in both knees (amazing!). Range of motion significantly better after surgeries (amazing!). I think this is a 12 month process to really feeling good. How are you feeling and how far out are you ? I live in SD so the the CA trails are on the schedule of 2019.
I will be in San Diego this weekend. Your flexion and extension are awesome so be happy with that. Everyone recovers at different rates. I do have to remind myself to walk correctly but I have no limp at all and people point that out to me. You are right - the arthritis pain is just gone. Isn't it amazing. It's replaced with other things. Getting used to the stiffness, swelling, and weird pains and yes especially the sleeping pains which I had for about the first 4-5 months. I feel great. I am 8 months out now and have no limitations. I'm kind of a freak and ignore pain so take this with a grain of salt. I was in so much pain before surgery for years and got used to it. My recovery seemed really easy because a week after surgery I was in way less pain than before surgery and it has only gotten better. I think a year is when everything will be amazing but I decided 6 months was long enough. I've been backpacking, playing full court basketball, running. Whatever I want. My swelling problem got way better after about 6 months but I still take Naproxen maybe once every other day but twice a day when hiking or backpacking. Did a pretty rough 35 mile backpacking trip in 4 days a month ago and the knee performed flawlessly except for a slight hyperextension on the last day that felt better within a day. I still think things are getting used to the new knee. I went to therapy just to work on flexion and extension and quit after 3 months. I'm around 120-125 and 0 and I'm fine with that. I have stairs in my house and I just had to do it without holding the rails and forced myself to get used to it. Obviously you never want to push yourself harder than the pain and discomfort tell you to. I am soon better off than pre surgery and it's still getting better. I hardly even think about my knee anymore which is when you know you are close. I don't baby it anymore and all the phantom pains and twinges are mostly gone. I get a sharp pain occasionally when I twist wrong but they are fewer and farther between. Hiking and backpacking are easier and more enjoyable now so I think by next summer the Sierra needs to be in your plans.
That's what I hear everywhere -- it takes at least a year to start truly feeling normal. hopeing you're doing much better in the meantime! I'm going in next Wed.for double TKR
Hey there,
Where did you get your brace that goes in the freezer
It's pretty great right? Sorry I got it from a previous surgery many years ago and there are no labels on it. I would imagine a medical supply company would have something like it. I still use it all the time. Good luck!
Just came from the hospital this week............not sure how this will work for me.
Buddy Ligon Do your physical therapy and try to keep your chin up! Every week gets a little better. You got this!
@@ApeMan Thanks.......will do
What type of ice pack did you use?
I just have a Velcro strap on one which works fine. I like it because I can drive with it or wear it to bed. The circulating ice is great too but only useful the first week or so.
How long before you could drive
I was able to drive after a week. It was my left leg and I was off my meds by then.
I am contemplating getting my knee replacement. Can you describe the pain you had prior to your knee replacement that caused you to make decision to proceed? The reason I ask is whether I should delay as long as possible but I have the fear that the delay may cause more injuries and make the operation difficult.
Mine was really bad and I delayed it probably 10 years too long. it was loose and would hyperextend. Also I could no longer straighten it so walked funny putting stress on my hips which started hurting. I still did everything but the pain got progressively worse and the swelling was really bad. Sleep became difficult as I had resting pain often. I trashed it pretty bad but you really can't make it worse but can injure other parts of your body. My final phase was steroids which helped delay it for a year or 2. I wanted to delay it as long as possible and I finally did it at 59. If you are 60 or over it's a no brainer. Do it! The operation is becoming routine but the rehab down time sucks. I was hiking after 3 months but 6 months to a year is more realistic. Some people are happy to just walk but I wanted more. I'm doing a 10 mile hike in the Sierra tomorrow. Don't really worry about it. It's not perfect or totally painless but I really enjoy it and can do it..slowly and carefully.
@@ApeMan Thank you for your response. I am just past 60, and I can still walk but I am definitely slowing down compared to my previous active life style. I had xray and ct-scan with both confirming osteoarthritis. I had steroid and then hyaluronic acid injections with temporary relief in pain but not enough to do things I used to do. I don't think I should be happy with the temporary relief and live with a slower life style. It's weighing me down to think this is the way it is for someone who is 60 something and beyond. I can continue with the hyaluronic acid injections but the combination of slowing down and the developing bow leg is not something I want to settle for. At least not this early. This is why your video is helpful. I think I am at the cross road or very close to it in needing to make that decision for the operation. Another question I have for you is both of my knees are feeling the pain. Did you do one knee only or both? Have you heard of any comments from others about the risk of doing both? On a lighter side, do you trigger the airport scanning machine every time? Thanks.
David I do not trigger airport machines. I’m getting my 2nd knee done in a few months. I did a difficult 20 mile hike in the mountains yesterday and it’s killing me. I hardly notice the replaced knee. You’ve done all you can. Get it done. Sounds like you were like me. I delayed it so long I was miserable but it got me used to pain and for me the recovery was easy. Some people don’t do as well. I have no 2nd thoughts on getting the other knee done. I will get it done in the winter and am confident I will be backpacking in the summer
What are you doing about sleeping at night?
Try not to nap too much during the day. Pain meds before bed? It will get better with time.
@@ApeMan thank you, the most pain meds I take during the day is 650mg of Tylenol after a pt session with an ice pack to the knee for a bit. I will only take a 1 hour nap occasionally if I've had a horrible night. I went to the gym for the first time today and did some stationary bike (10min) and upper body weights. I've been feeling like a slug lately after being very physically active before the surgery 6 weeks ago. Hopefully it will help. I find myself waking up to severe spasms in my knee and leg and at my wits end.
7 weeks out it was a revision in lots of pain can't walk very far at all sleeping is almost impossible
Hang in there Ed. It may not seem like it but I bet you are getting a tiny bit better everyday. Sleep was hard for me too. Maybe talk to your doctor about different pain meds and something to help you sleep. I tried to limit naps so I would be tired at night. Music helped me sleep. Sitting in silence and being in pain and getting frustrated not being able to fall asleep drove me nuts. I tried lots of things with pillows and different positions to try and get comfortable. Side sleeping curled up with my hands or a pillow between my knees was a position that worked for me. Good luck on your recovery. I'm thrilled with my new knee.
Its not that easy for everyone no matter what!
Where did you get your ice pack
They gave it to me at the hospital to go home with. I do like the way it straps on and I can move around with it. I still use it after hiking and tough days at work. Sorry I don't know where to get one.
What kind of work do you do?
I’m semi retired now but still working part time and I do some consulting arborist work. I worked the last 15 years in parks maintenance for a local town.
Can we get a quick update :)
OmegaDirective Sure. Did you notice my emigrant loop backpacking trip which was about 8 months post surgery. No restrictions, and little pain or swelling. Still really happy with my results. I can even run again. I will try to get another video up in the next couple of weeks.
Hi wanted to know after full recovery does pain go completely away
Erica flores Contreras Yes and no. The pain of bone on bone is completely gone. My overall pain level went from an 8 to a 1. More importantly I have confidence in my knee and can do whatever I want. Now my old worn out joint is still old and worn out. I’m a little stiff and when bending at 120 degrees plus it hurts a little. No resting pain or sleeping pain at all. After a 10 mile hiking day it of course swells up and is a little sore but nothing like before surgery. You get used to it and I really don’t even think about it much and don’t even ice it after hikes. Other people may have different results. I have a high pain tolerance and was in a lot of pain for a long time pre surgery so I’m very satisfied.
When do you aim to have your other knee done and what are the goals you have to signal this is ok? Thanks for a sensible and reassuring video. BTW I’m on day 12 of my TKR.
How is your TKR going? My doctor offered to do both knees but I thought it would be harder than it was. My signal is when I can no longer backpack because of excruciating pain. It just hurts now. I'm retiring in 2-3 years so it probably makes sense for me to do it before then so I can be on disability for 2 months.
Many thanks for taking the time to reply. I think Im making good progress and am very optimistic regarding recovery. Both my knees are in v. poor condition so as-soon-as I'm going for the other, in my head thats 4 months out; so in my case its not how bad it is, its how good my TKR side is. My surgeon is very much against doing both at the same time (I'm in the UK) and I can understand why, not least managing pain and the day to day needs of living. Thanks again and I'll look out for your updates, I find these and others very reassuring and a good overall benchmark of how I might be doing. Love the dog hike scene; mine is being looked after by friends pending a bit more mobility, maybe week 7 when Im driving. Gorgeous scenery.
Hello Ape Man, wondering how you are doing now with those knees; have you increased the distance and time hiking? I have Ostheoarthritis on both knees and will have my left one replaced on September. I love hiking and backpaking and look at you for inspiration. If you are doing so well,so will I, right? How long ago was your surgery, and how far can you hike/backpack now? Watching your videos for guidelines, helped me complete the JMT last August; I thank you for that. My next goal is the PCT in sections; but my Knees need replacing first. Once I get better I hope to backpack the PCT either in consecutive weekends, or whole sections at a time. Do you think is possible with the TKR? Thank you.
Use me as just an example of a good outcome. Everyone is different. I react differently to pain than you or others. I consider myself fully recovered 4.5 months after surgery and have resumed hiking with no limitations. I do still have some swelling and some pain but nothing compared to pre surgery. I already don't even think about it and it's better than my non surgical knee. I am confident I could complete a PCT hike on my new knee. Of course keeping my pack weight and body weight down is now required. I suffer from pretty severe foot arthritis as well so mostly have to stick to trails and avoid high impact stuff. Naproxen is always with me on hiking trips and I never pass up a cold soak in a stream or lake to help with swelling. I do have a friend who had his surgery before mine and he is not able to hike any distance stuff yet. I am planning on getting my 2nd knee replaced in a couple years and have every intention of doing lots of backpacking in my retirement. So far my new knee is really solid on hiking trails and I have no problems at all. I'm planning a normal hiking season this summer as time allows.
Ape Man thanks for your fast response; It gives me hope; May God keep you strong and healthy, thank you.
Was there a lot of scarring? Do you have any issues with your hip/s?
Definitely gonna leave a nice scar. It's pretty gnarly at first but is fading fast and will soon be hardly noticeable. One hip was bothering me a little because I was out of balance with a really bad knee before surgery. I can walk normally again and the hip problem vanished. I feel younger and am excited to get back to a lot of physical activities again. Of course backpacking without pain is a big plus but lots of daily things I can do pain free again. Just walking, on the job, sports and even some things in the bedroom. Pain sneaks up on you and makes life hard. If you are on the fence about doing it feel free to ask me more questions. I was in a ton of pain daily before surgery so for me the decision was easy and I have no second thoughts. I should have done it years ago.
Where did you find that blue velcro cold knee wrap you use in your video?
I was sent home with that from an outpatient knee surgery on the other knee. It's some kind of gel filled thing and comes in handy. I haven't iced my knees in 2 months and the new knee does swell but other than that is doing well and very minimal pain. Ice would probably help with the swelling but it doesn't hurt and I'm lazy so I just take an anti inflammatory occasional and can pretty much do everything I want to.