I’m 14 years old and I completely tore my ACL and partly tore my meniscus then I got surgery and a week counting today I haven’t been able to sleep at all each night. I’ve been to the doctors and physical therapy but their tips for sleeping didn’t work but then I found this and went to take a nap and slept through the whole day and night! Thank you so much for this video! I appreciate it!
I hope you’re doing well. I had the same surgery a few months ago but I’m 66. You’re so young and I’m so sorry! These videos are so helpful and it’s insane that no doctor tells us even though they know we can’t sleep.
@@clind6682 encouraging words! I am finally out of the brace and I’m starting to jog and strengthen up again! It’s been 4 months since the surgery! I hope you’re doing good too!
When I had a knee replacement surgery I was just able to sleep on my back and I had to rent the hospital bed,I had to keep my head up and pillow under my knee.
Thank you so much for this video! I was discharged from total knee replacement today. Nobody in the hospital even discussed how to sleep after surgery. I came home sleep deprived and found your video ❤👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤
Just got home tonight from husband’s TKR at age 35 due to steroid and chemo side effects from his 5 leukemia diagnosis’s in 5 years. To be honest I was just opening up TH-cam to mindlessly watch something before falling asleep. Your video was on the screen when I first opened the app. Talk about PERFECT TIMING. We did not know my husband had options! We were told on his back and pillow under the calf. After watching this video he turned on his side and IMMEDIATELY passed out. He was so uncomfortable on his back. Thank you for this incredible, informative video!
This should be used as a standard of care post TKR. Sleep is critical to recovery and poor sleep has many effects beyond slow healing. Simple, easy to learn. Think there are many patients who will be grateful you've taken the time to show the options.
Wow! I had surgery in late October and experienced horrific muscle spasms in my calf and hamstring and where they put the tournaquet. Never had so much pain. Not one person taught me about the pillows. I have had so many problems sleeping afraid to use pillows because I was told not to use pillows. I had alot of swelling in my foot and lower leg and noone told me how to get rid of it. They said it would go down on it's own. Thank You for sharing this. I am going to use it for sure.
Exactly!!! Sent me home with things to apparently help me get dressed, but did not show me how to use it. Also I have had and was told not to use pillows but I have so much swelling in my operated knee and foot. Feels like my knee is gonna bust open. And also not getting any thing for pain that helps. And I am suffering
I am a side sleeper 80 percent on my left.. 6 months will have my left knee done . Then 5 months later my right..Very educational..Gonna save this video..Thank you
I had ACL replacement & meniscal repair ~30 years ago (in my early 40's). In the first few weeks, lying down/sleeping was the worst - such incredible discomfort - & I wish that I had had some instruction about this then! Thanks to Lindsay for all of those who will benefit from watching this video.
I'm 41 and have an upcoming acl/meniscus repair. I'm doing all my research now to get ready for the big event! Is the recovery a little harder in these middle years than for those teens and 20's kids?
I slept in a recliner after both of my replacements…for about a month….pillows under the knee, iced even during the night…I am allergic to Percocet so only used Tylenol 3 first few days…my husband “ forced “ 😂 me to do the exercises….i was up and about in about 5 weeks with no walker or cane….and no real pain, just stiffness …I now ride the stationary bike for an hour a day …it’s been 5 years and still going strong
@@Jerbt …the worst is the first few days….after that the pain is actually less than before the replacement….just follow the instructions from your dr and then your therapist….keep your leg up and iced as much as possible, you’ll do fine….i put it off for years before I worked up the courage , so glad I finally did it….
My total knee replacement triggered sciatica in the operated leg. I found being propped up using 3 pillows helped relieve the pain. Presently, I cannot lie on my side of lie flat in bed. I’m now 3 weeks post op and finally managing to sleep better at night.
Same for me I had total knee replacement and alterations to femur and tibia due to Rickets as a child.. July 22/24 was surgery … the surgery also triggered my sciatic nerve in my lower back. I think it was more painful than the knee replacement to be honest.
I’m 4 weeks post-surgery, and after an excruciating night thanks to inadvertently flipping on my side (without pillow support) 🤦🏻♀️I found this video!!!! Thank you so much for looking out for us!!! 🙇🏻♀️It never occurred to me that turning to the operated side might be a viable option, much less the best idea. I’m in bed now - and since I’ve already achieved zero degrees extension thanks to early diligence, you won’t find me attempting another night without a full array of leg pillows!
I’m frustrated I didn’t find you sooner! For nearly 3 weeks following my knee replacement I have been averaging 3 hrs sleep a night as I was told to only sleep on my back. Thank you for this.
Same here! Also 3 weeks and the only time I got 3 hrs of sleep in a row after sheer exhaustion. And that is like every other night! Also told to sleep on my back which gives me a lot of pain in my lower back. Stumbled on her video today and will be trying her way tonight!
I liked laying on a wedge pillow in bed and I laid flat for the first week or so. I was uncomfortable on my side. But after a week or so, definitely went to my side with a pillow between my legs. However, I didn't like laying on the surgical leg. I preferred putting the surgical leg over the pillow. That's what worked for me! So don't give up if something doesn't work for you - keep trying til you find what does!!
To those who are about to undergo a knee replacement: educate yourselves about getting good sleep. Of all the pre-op instruction I was given, I wasn't told anything about how impossible it can be to sleep comfortably. Every case is different but my biggest battle has been sleeping, now also a month to the day after surgery. I've gone many nights with poor sleep. Although I've had almost no pain during the day, my knee becomes very restless and active at night. Taking Acetaminophen and Oxycodone didn't help. Then my nurse said that the pain medication may have caused my sleep disruption so she suggested Benadryl as a sleep aid but it didn't help. My point is: address the issue of sleep with your doctor or nurse or whomever. It has been a major problem for me and, according to the other comments, many other patients also.
I have the same issue but I’ve never been a good sleeper to begin with. The knee injury and then surgery has really done a number on me. I wish you all a good recovery and believe me when I say I know your pain. Stay strong everyone.
i have the similar issue: sleeping at nights are so bad and it hurts so much that i am afraid to sleep at night. The Oxy only lasted 2 hrs, then i am awake from the pain. i usually stayed up from 1's to 5's then, i headed to bed. i did all the positioning and making myself as comfortable as much as possible, but still..... this is my 3 weeks of TKR.
I really believe a multi-prong approach has to be considered when dealing with the complex pain associated with major orthopedic surgery. I’ve been prescribed Tizanadine 4mg - a non-addictive muscle relaxer which helps my spasms. It has an ancillary benefit of knocking me out. The sleep-aid effect only lasts 3-4 hours - but that’s half a night of sleep. Best wishes, fellow pain battlers!
Nice video. Well explained. I’m 10 weeks into a TKR. A little behind the curve with recovery. (72 years old). I have good flexibility but still dealing with weakness, pain and stiffness. I’m using an exercise bike 2 or 3 times a day and also just got a Tens unit to help with the pain. Progress is slow but I’m finally seeing small improvements. You just have to keep at it. Positive attitude and perseverance is just as important as doing the PT.
Everything post-op seems better when I got some sleep. Initially, I was anxious near bedtime because I feared the discomfort and pain. Thank you for making this video because it was the most important video to help me through the immediate recovery period. It is practical and easy to understand with the demonstrations. You can't do the stretches unless you are mentally prepared and some sleep helps everything look and feel a little better.
Thnx for this video,i had my knees placement last week Tuesday and no body told me about how to sleep and get out of bed,now that saw this video iam relieved
I had me knee replacement done almost 10 years ago. I remember sleeping was difficult. Getting in and out of bed too. Getting ready to do my left knee soon.
One night bed, next night recliner…anything for a good night’s sleep and haven’t had one 3 weeks in from TKR. Thank you for being here. It’s a big help w your side sleeping techniques and recliner tips. I’m finding that a firmer memory foam under my calf works best at least it does tonite. Thanks again for your help
I am nearly 2 months post-op from total knee replacement and sleeping on my side is my favorite position. Unfortunately, it's also uncomfortable. Nobody told me what to expect after the surgery period. Like that, my upper thigh would hurt nearly as much as my knee. When I'm sitting or laying the natural gravity pull causes my thigh to hurt like a SOB. I've cried so many times. When I try and lay on my side, having it flat causes pain. I've tried pillows under, and then my hip hurts. I just can't win. So sleeping for me is currently a thing of the past. I've tried pillows, stuffed animals, pain creams nothing seems to help. I've ordered a sleep knee pillow, yeah that was a waste of money. Most times I need a reminder why I had this surgery.
@@ImThePronounPolice 5 months now. Sleep and I are friends again, tho some times when I roll over my knee will protest but not harshly. I was getting around without any assistance, till I returned to work and that set me back so bad I had to go back on leave. So that's where I am at now. Doing PT 3x's a week again to get my leg stronger.
@@bdasswarrior I had a partial knee replacement two years ago. On May 18, 2022. I told my doctor I was going to Hawaii two months later in July. He said I would be fine by then. But I wasn’t. I had taken my grandson for a graduation present. So I let him go off and do all the pineapple plantation walks and all the other things and kind of just stayed back at the hotel and did my own thing because my leg was swollen still. When I returned home, I told my doctor how much it hurt and he asked me if I was still in Physical Therapy and I said yes. He said today is your last day. You are going to Physical Therapy too long and every time you go, you’re inflaming it. He was right! As soon as I got out of physical therapy after two months, it healed fast . Now I am recovering from my second partial knee replacement on my other leg and I’m five weeks out. Still have a lot of pain and I cry almost every day and feel like an idiot! these knee replacements are no joke! They are extremely painful. I do have two friends one is elderly and another younger who just recovered very quick! So I thought there was something wrong with me. But I think most people are like us. It takes months if not a year to totally heal from a surgery like this.
I'm one month post-op, and didn't start to get decent, mostly uninterrupted sleep until about a week ago. It hasn't been a pain issue, as such, but more like my leg/knee couldn't get comfortable. I've used a full length body pillow for some time before surgery, so I was accustomed to that already; glad to see it is a recommended position, and I think it's helped me sleep better as the discomfort diminishes. One thing I didn't know was where to position a pillow while on my back. Given my chronic knee issues before TKR, I'd be in pain if I let my leg go straight out so I'd typically keep a pillow under the knee when laying on my back. Post surgery I continued doing this, and it did feel comfortable, but after watching this video I'm going to move that pillow down to under my calf and see how that feels. Also, a Tylenol PM at bedtime is a good start, but I'm supplementing this with a Benadryl as well.
I had right knee replacement a week ago and have been struggling to find a way to stay asleep past an hour I will definitely be trying your suggestions. Thanks 🙏👍
Thankyou for sharing. I'm 3 weeks post op Unicompartmentel Replacement of the right knee. Getting a good night's sleep is very difficult at the moment and will try this tonight.
I’m doing good after 8 weeks but a warning about the first 3 weeks or so. On the second or third night after surgery I was in tremendous pain- I had shivers from pain for about 2 nights , no sleep but when I passed out for an hour or so - I couldn’t eat and lost about 24 lbs. in first 4 weeks, I survived on emergency shakes for seniors like Ensure, eventually taking in soups -so be aware what a monster pain can be! Yes I was on the phone with my doctor’s office and emergency nurses for a couple of weeks. I’m doing fine now, I think pain delayed my recovery . Just be aware - everyone has a different experience. FYI I sleep on my back now- I used to be a side sleeper but pain still come when I try this .
Let me know how it went or how it's going I'm gonna do my tkr next month but cause my fear I'm not sure if I want to do it let me know plz how it was and how you are
@@miacoria501 hi! I was terrified to to be honest with you. It went fine. I had them put me completely out no epidural. I also had them put me out for the nerve block. I hate needles. Mine was out patient. I was the 1st surgery of the day about 6:45 and I think my son took me home at 1. I had 50% mobility my first day of PT on Dec 19. I had it again today. They have me doing more stuff now. I'm sleeping on my side finally :) last night is the best night sleep I've had in almost 2 weeks. The surgery is worth it in the long run. Little tip Tylenol is going to work better than pain pills trust me. Best of luck, much love! If you have any questions please let me know :)
Had my second tkr 4 hours ago, best thing ever. Attack the therapy as early as possible. Flexibility take priority over strengthening exercises. Good Luck
was a week before I got any real sleep after tkr, my surgeon would not give me any painkillers that would help. but three weeks after surgery things got much better.
I wish I had seen this before my surgery. Am now 4 weeks post-op TKA and by far my biggest challenge has been sleep deprivation. Since I am short discovered a lumbar pillow the perfect size between my legs. I just had to get onto my side.
I am one week post-op right full knee replacement. I have relied heavily on the Ice/Cryo technology and it works. My Rehab therapist is really one of the best in this space. I have to "Thank" all the people who have made videos and published them to help others recover better. If you're not totally sore after your rehab session... then you're doing something wrong. My PT pushes me to the limit... then I use the ice to drop the swelling.
Great Info. I’m 18 days post surgery for my left knee replacement . ( I had a right knee replacement last year, and it’s been very helpful to watch your videos for ongoing needs/changes and exercises etc. The Home Health agency I’ve used has been great, however, “mini-refreshers”, through your clear descriptions and physical examples reinforces and substantiates the benefits and importance of continued and repeated exercise. Thanks very much!!👍🌈🤗Sally H.
THANK YOU, I just recently had an mpfl reconstruction and I’ve been sleeping on my back for almost 2 weeks, it was getting uncomfortable, and then when I found this video I was immediately able to relax on a side position 👍
Really really useful. My TKR is in @2 months so this will be sending me off to my local pillow supplier (in England John Lewis!) for ore supplies. Forewarned is forearmed. Great advice that I will follow. Thank you for taking the time to produce this must see video.
I need to personally thank you for a good night’s sleep. Last night was night 6 of trying yo figure out how the heck to get comfy. Finally came across your video, committed to the side position (my usual one) and was amazing. Thanks for changing my life!,🎉
I was finding very difficult to sleep on back last one week after my both knee operation. And Today I found this video of yours. Thanks very much. It's going to help me a lot as I am used to sleeping on sides and didn't know the correct way.
Thanks for advice most appreciated two weeks into TKR pain in bed is a killer try what you said out last night slept longer and more comfortable. Many Thanks 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧✅
Thank you for your demonstration. I am a right side sleeper & my right knee is the first one being done next week. Also so blessed to bring back home my father’s wedge when he passed. I had a feeling I would use it.
I dislocated my knee and was really scared because I didn't know how to care for it but this video gave me one less thing to stress about tonight. Thank you for making this video 😊
THANK YOU! I'm 4 weeks after medial meniscus root repair. Wish I'd seen this sooner! Agree with everyone in comments that the PT and docs don't offer this kind of information or even suggest your channel. Wouldn't that be easy enough for them to at least let us know where we might find good info? Anyway, I have found lying on my side with operative leg on TOP with pillows exactly as you show does work pretty well. I was told to sleep with brace on in full extension but just couldn't sleep at all that way. I hope I haven't damaged the repair sleeping w/o brace. Thanks again ~ Marian
No I just had knee replacement in sept told to sleep with knee straight. Do not put under pillow. Had a great recovery did PT and excersises three times a day. Back to work after seven weeks
I spent Sunday morning reading about what to expect after TKR. Invaluable information I wish I had then. A few internet searches will serve you well. I'm pretty sure your surgery doc won't tell you.
This is the very best instructional video about sleeping following TKR I have ever seen. I had my right knee replaced about 5 years ago and will have a left TKR next month. Could you please help me to find the wedge that you demonstrated in the video. The Amazon link you included goes to a product that is very different. Thank you so very much!!
Thank you so much for this video. I've just spent 10 weeks sleeping on my back after a knee replacement which resulted in a fractured Tibia so it's taken all this time for weight bearing. I had to set up a bed downstairs which was not as comfortable as my bed upstairs. Although I slept ok on my back, at times I really wanted to sleep how I usually sleep, on my side like you just demonstrated. I am going upstairs for the first time today so I'm looking forward to getting back to some normality. Thanks again for the tips.
Thanks for this video! I'm having my first knee done in a week and I've always slept on that side with a pillow between my knees. I didn't know I could lay on the surgical side at all. I've bought extra pillows and now I know how to place them. Hopefully I will be able to get some sleep off and on after surgery now.
I found your video very helpful I wish I would have found it earlier I'm 90 days out and I still can't sleep no more than 3 hours at a time no one told me it was going to be like this 👍
I was told 6-8 weeks! Had I been told 6 months to 1 year I probably would have kept up with the injections and enjoyed life. I'm 6 weeks out and can't sleep more than 2-3 hours at a time. Hoping these tips help.
I wish I had seen this video last week after my surgery. I have had the worst time trying to sleep at night, which impeeds my husband's sleep as well. I have longed to sleep in the bed and tried to but could not get comfy. This video gives some great information as to "how" to do that. Thank you!
Thank you so much!!!! 2 weeks post op I finally got a decent stretch of sleep because of your great, easy to follow, tutorial on how to sleep comfortably!!!
Thank you. My up coming surgery is nearly here and it's good to know how I'll be able to sleep in a twin bed (temp) then move onto my King size bed with my hubby. Yes, physical therapy is coming to my home to teach me things. Great video.
Thank you for the video. I did not receive any of this information prior to being released to go home from my surgery. I am three weeks post op ad will thy the side sleeping technique tonight.
I'm ok ...im on day 5 and it seems like this is the 1st night that I don't have ice on my leg and now I just can't sleep. I thought I'd be able to get out of bed by myself by now but no such luck ...but I know better days are coming 🤗 How's your progress ...are you doing OK?
@@AmazeVictoria it was hard while I was in the hospital, due to pain management. Advice stay on your pain medication around the clock. Set your alarm on your phone or whatever.... using ice helps, if you don't have ice packs fill baggies with ice and use.. freeze empty bottles or use anything in the freezer. I'm able to bend 110 on my own and I'm 5' degrees from completely straight.... do the pt at home. It helps... even if it is 1 set of 10reps. This is my 3rd surgery on my rt knee. Total knee 7/19 failed. Due to covid I had to wait til 4/21 for total knee replacement revision, everything going well then I fell down stairs which caused a random bone to form on my knee cap so 2/2/22 went in took bone out and replaced plastic devices... I've achieved my best results so far than any other surgeries in the past... I'm very 😊 😃 😀 happy
@@wendygonzales4287 the hospital gave me an electrical ice therapy machine that I use. I just plugged it back in and now I feel so much better. I haven't had any pain at all. Maybe a little discomfort & yes, I am taking ALL my meds as instructed ...my mom moved in the day I came home from the hospital and she has been a stickler when it comes to my meds & me doing all my exercises. I'm so happy that you sound like you're doing better this go round!
Thank you so much for creating this video ❤️ I just came home this evening and I'm having a hard time sleeping in my bed. I've been sleeping in the single mattress bed at the hospital and the couch at my mom's and I've done well with those. I have queen size mattress and I couldn't get comfortable so here I am on my couch. I decided to search for videos about sleeping after TKR and luckily found you! I will experiment with your pillow examples tomorrow and fingers crossed they work! Thank you again ❤️
Thank you so much, I have had excellent care thus far I am 1 wk out of surgury, BUT after finding your video this am this information is invaluable! Thank you!Thank you!!! I will be sharing this information with my PT ladies today!!!❤
It is approximately a week and a half since my knee replacement surgery as of this writing. It was my left knee. Your legs look symmetrical. My left right now is almost twice the size as my right .one. At the hospital I was informed that I should avoid putting any pillow or cushioning under my knee when I sleep on my back. Instead I should have my ankle elevated with pillows or towel or other cushioning . The leg should be kept as straight as possible . But I was also told by different Physical Therapists that progressively I will have to work on bending my leg even though it will be very painful pushing against the swelling and resistance. I was even told by one PT that at outpatient PT sessions the therapists would even force bend my leg to make it go into a 90 degree angle even if it hurts. I will not let anyone do that to me. I have to do it with progression and as I am best able to manage the pain.
Outstanding information. I am preparing for this very event. Thank you for producing this information and demonstration on the correct way to re-position for comfort and rest.
❤️🙏🏻Thank you for this🙏🏻❤️ I had my Right TKR last Thurs. Having Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Sclerosis etc it’s difficult getting comfortable but this video has really helped. 🙏🏻Blessings from Wales, UK 🙏🏻 x x
Thank you. However, almost every other site says to avoid sleeping on the operated side. It is a very comfortable way to sleep, but I have been avoiding. I am 19 days post surgery now, but have been trying to sleep only on my back and keeping my leg as straight as possible. Sleeping is difficult. My worst problem, I would say. I am going to try sleeping on my side with pillows tonight. Thank you!
From reading these comments it seems sleeplessness is a problem after a knee surgery. I will be having a TKR in two weeks . I’m a side sleeper and I hope this will help me . Can I sleep on my side on day one ?
I’m 14 years old and I completely tore my ACL and partly tore my meniscus then I got surgery and a week counting today I haven’t been able to sleep at all each night. I’ve been to the doctors and physical therapy but their tips for sleeping didn’t work but then I found this and went to take a nap and slept through the whole day and night! Thank you so much for this video! I appreciate it!
I’m so glad I could help you get some much needed rest! 🙌🏻
How are you feeling? I’m going through the same thing right now and it’s been a week. I just wonder if it gets better after a month or two
I hope you’re doing well. I had the same surgery a few months ago but I’m 66. You’re so young and I’m so sorry! These videos are so helpful and it’s insane that no doctor tells us even though they know we can’t sleep.
@@clind6682 encouraging words! I am finally out of the brace and I’m starting to jog and strengthen up again! It’s been 4 months since the surgery! I hope you’re doing good too!
When I had a knee replacement surgery I was just able to sleep on my back and I had to rent the hospital bed,I had to keep my head up and pillow under my knee.
Thank you so much for this video! I was discharged from total knee replacement today. Nobody in the hospital even discussed how to sleep after surgery. I came home sleep deprived and found your video ❤👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤
So true! Other than "don't put a pillow under your knee" nothing was said to address this difficult problem!
I’m hooked up to an ice machine 24/7 to elevate the swelling it gets in the way when I’m trying to sleep.. so I end up removing it until the morning…
@@NancyHowlett you’re not supposed to wear the ice machine at night time it’s only meant for the daytime use.
Thanks
@@NancyHowlettIce machine 24/7 is a definite no no. You’d better read up on it on You Tube.
Just got home tonight from husband’s TKR at age 35 due to steroid and chemo side effects from his 5 leukemia diagnosis’s in 5 years. To be honest I was just opening up TH-cam to mindlessly watch something before falling asleep. Your video was on the screen when I first opened the app. Talk about PERFECT TIMING. We did not know my husband had options! We were told on his back and pillow under the calf. After watching this video he turned on his side and IMMEDIATELY passed out. He was so uncomfortable on his back. Thank you for this incredible, informative video!
This should be used as a standard of care post TKR. Sleep is critical to recovery and poor sleep has many effects beyond slow healing. Simple, easy to learn. Think there are many patients who will be grateful you've taken the time to show the options.
Wow! I had surgery in late October and experienced horrific muscle spasms in my calf and hamstring and where they put the tournaquet. Never had so much pain. Not one person taught me about the pillows. I have had so many problems sleeping afraid to use pillows because I was told not to use pillows. I had alot of swelling in my foot and lower leg and noone told me how to get rid of it. They said it would go down on it's own. Thank You for sharing this. I am going to use it for sure.
Mine is the same as soon as you get a spasm it wakes you up with excruciating pain!
Exactly!!! Sent me home with things to apparently help me get dressed, but did not show me how to use it. Also I have had and was told not to use pillows but I have so much swelling in my operated knee and foot. Feels like my knee is gonna bust open. And also not getting any thing for pain that helps. And I am suffering
I am a side sleeper 80 percent on my left..
6 months will have my left knee done . Then 5 months later my right..Very educational..Gonna save this video..Thank you
I am doing my homework beforehand and your video is excellent! Thank you!!!
😅
Total knee last Tuesday. THIS was more informative than ortho, hosp, PT put together!
Glad to help!
I had ACL replacement & meniscal repair ~30 years ago (in my early 40's). In the first few weeks, lying down/sleeping was the worst - such incredible discomfort - & I wish that I had had some instruction about this then! Thanks to Lindsay for all of those who will benefit from watching this video.
I'm 41 and have an upcoming acl/meniscus repair. I'm doing all my research now to get ready for the big event!
Is the recovery a little harder in these middle years than for those teens and 20's kids?
Thank you! I have knee surgery coming up!
How did your surgery go?
I slept in a recliner after both of my replacements…for about a month….pillows under the knee, iced even during the night…I am allergic to Percocet so only used Tylenol 3 first few days…my husband “ forced “ 😂 me to do the exercises….i was up and about in about 5 weeks with no walker or cane….and no real pain, just stiffness …I now ride the stationary bike for an hour a day …it’s been 5 years and still going strong
That feeling when knee surgery is tomorrow
@@Jerbt …the worst is the first few days….after that the pain is actually less than before the replacement….just follow the instructions from your dr and then your therapist….keep your leg up and iced as much as possible, you’ll do fine….i put it off for years before I worked up the courage , so glad I finally did it….
In short, your videos are the best I've found. Thank you!
My total knee replacement triggered sciatica in the operated leg. I found being propped up using 3 pillows helped relieve the pain. Presently, I cannot lie on my side of lie flat in bed. I’m now 3 weeks post op and finally managing to sleep better at night.
Yikes, hope you are feeling better now. I'm getting mine done later in the year.
Same for me I had total knee replacement and alterations to femur and tibia due to Rickets as a child.. July 22/24 was surgery … the surgery also triggered my sciatic nerve in my lower back. I think it was more painful than the knee replacement to be honest.
Same with me.
@@DoDar I hope you’re doing okay if you’ve had you knee replacement.
@@patriciadunn5015 I’d agree. Hope you’re doing okay now
I’m 4 weeks post-surgery, and after an excruciating night thanks to inadvertently flipping on my side (without pillow support) 🤦🏻♀️I found this video!!!! Thank you so much for looking out for us!!! 🙇🏻♀️It never occurred to me that turning to the operated side might be a viable option, much less the best idea. I’m in bed now - and since I’ve already achieved zero degrees extension thanks to early diligence, you won’t find me attempting another night without a full array of leg pillows!
I’m frustrated I didn’t find you sooner! For nearly 3 weeks following my knee replacement I have been averaging 3 hrs sleep a night as I was told to only sleep on my back. Thank you for this.
Same here! Also 3 weeks and the only time I got 3 hrs of sleep in a row after sheer exhaustion. And that is like every other night! Also told to sleep on my back which gives me a lot of pain in my lower back. Stumbled on her video today and will be trying her way tonight!
Sad I pay thousands of dollars to PHYSICIANS and PT and then have to search internet for help.Thankful for this video
I’m so glad you found it! I’m sorry this information isn’t taught right up front 😔
@@EquipMeOT So very true! SAD
I'm justlearning this. Thank for the explanation through the video.
Hope you are feeling much better now
Exactly. Ineptness, willful ignorance, too busy, what is it?
Thank you for posting this video. I’m five days post op and following your recommendations is the closest I’ve come to comfortable.
Had a LKR 7 weeks ag. I wish I had seen this before my surgery. Very good advice.
Great video...wish I had seen this 6 weeks ago after TKA, but I discovered most of these strategies through trial and error, and they worked for me.
I liked laying on a wedge pillow in bed and I laid flat for the first week or so. I was uncomfortable on my side. But after a week or so, definitely went to my side with a pillow between my legs. However, I didn't like laying on the surgical leg. I preferred putting the surgical leg over the pillow. That's what worked for me! So don't give up if something doesn't work for you - keep trying til you find what does!!
Thank you so much for this video. 4 weeks post TKR and I now hope to get at least 4 hours of sleep tonight!!❤❤❤❤
To those who are about to undergo a knee replacement: educate yourselves about getting good sleep. Of all the pre-op instruction I was given, I wasn't told anything about how impossible it can be to sleep comfortably. Every case is different but my biggest battle has been sleeping, now also a month to the day after surgery. I've gone many nights with poor sleep. Although I've had almost no pain during the day, my knee becomes very restless and active at night. Taking Acetaminophen and Oxycodone didn't help. Then my nurse said that the pain medication may have caused my sleep disruption so she suggested Benadryl as a sleep aid but it didn't help. My point is: address the issue of sleep with your doctor or nurse or whomever. It has been a major problem for me and, according to the other comments, many other patients also.
I have the same issue but I’ve never been a good sleeper to begin with.
The knee injury and then surgery has really done a number on me.
I wish you all a good recovery and believe me when I say I know your pain. Stay strong everyone.
i have the similar issue: sleeping at nights are so bad and it hurts so much that i am afraid to sleep at night. The Oxy only lasted 2 hrs, then i am awake from the pain. i usually stayed up from 1's to 5's then, i headed to bed. i did all the positioning and making myself as comfortable as much as possible, but still..... this is my 3 weeks of TKR.
I really believe a multi-prong approach has to be considered when dealing with the complex pain associated with major orthopedic surgery. I’ve been prescribed Tizanadine 4mg - a non-addictive muscle relaxer which helps my spasms. It has an ancillary benefit of knocking me out. The sleep-aid effect only lasts 3-4 hours - but that’s half a night of sleep. Best wishes, fellow pain battlers!
My doctor gave me gapapentin for sleep..really helped,especially w the restlessness.
Pregabalina (lyrica) has helped me sleep and lessen the pain - it's used for nerve pain, restless leg syndrome, fybromyalgia
Nice video. Well explained. I’m 10 weeks into a TKR. A little behind the curve with recovery. (72 years old). I have good flexibility but still dealing with weakness, pain and stiffness. I’m using an exercise bike 2 or 3 times a day and also just got a Tens unit to help with the pain. Progress is slow but I’m finally seeing small improvements. You just have to keep at it. Positive attitude and perseverance is just as important as doing the PT.
This video helped me get the first decent nights sleep in two weeks! Thanks so much!
5 weeks out and so glad I came across this video. Can’t wait to try this!!!!
Everything post-op seems better when I got some sleep. Initially, I was anxious near bedtime because I feared the discomfort and pain. Thank you for making this video because it was the most important video to help me through the immediate recovery period. It is practical and easy to understand with the demonstrations. You can't do the stretches unless you are mentally prepared and some sleep helps everything look and feel a little better.
I’m so glad it helped your recovery!
I am with you on that front. Hopefully they help me as much as I believe they helped you.
I am home from TNR by 6 hours; it is 4am now! I found your video and I want to give you a BIG
THANK YOU!😇
GOD's riches BLESSINGS upon you.
AMEN & AMEN
That side sleep info was everything. 1 month post op on patellar tendon.
Day 2 Post-op ACL-R and meniscus repair/removal
Glad I found this video... Appreciate it soo much
Thnx for this video,i had my knees placement last week Tuesday and no body told me about how to sleep and get out of bed,now that saw this video iam relieved
I had me knee replacement done almost 10 years ago. I remember sleeping was difficult. Getting in and out of bed too. Getting ready to do my left knee soon.
2:45
One night bed, next night recliner…anything for a good night’s sleep and haven’t had one 3 weeks in from TKR. Thank you for being here. It’s a big help w your side sleeping techniques and recliner tips. I’m finding that a firmer memory foam under my calf works best at least it does tonite. Thanks again for your help
You’re welcome. I hope the sleep improves!
Great video, I just had my Left Knee Replacement today July 26th, 2023, thank you!
I am nearly 2 months post-op from total knee replacement and sleeping on my side is my favorite position. Unfortunately, it's also uncomfortable. Nobody told me what to expect after the surgery period. Like that, my upper thigh would hurt nearly as much as my knee. When I'm sitting or laying the natural gravity pull causes my thigh to hurt like a SOB. I've cried so many times. When I try and lay on my side, having it flat causes pain. I've tried pillows under, and then my hip hurts. I just can't win. So sleeping for me is currently a thing of the past. I've tried pillows, stuffed animals, pain creams nothing seems to help. I've ordered a sleep knee pillow, yeah that was a waste of money. Most times I need a reminder why I had this surgery.
Worst decision I’ve ever made!
My hip hurts too, all the time!
How are u now?
@@ImThePronounPolice 5 months now. Sleep and I are friends again, tho some times when I roll over my knee will protest but not harshly. I was getting around without any assistance, till I returned to work and that set me back so bad I had to go back on leave. So that's where I am at now. Doing PT 3x's a week again to get my leg stronger.
@@bdasswarrior I had a partial knee replacement two years ago. On May 18, 2022. I told my doctor I was going to Hawaii two months later in July. He said I would be fine by then. But I wasn’t. I had taken my grandson for a graduation present. So I let him go off and do all the pineapple plantation walks and all the other things and kind of just stayed back at the hotel and did my own thing because my leg was swollen still. When I returned home, I told my doctor how much it hurt and he asked me if I was still in Physical Therapy and I said yes. He said today is your last day. You are going to Physical Therapy too long and every time you go, you’re inflaming it. He was right! As soon as I got out of physical therapy after two months, it healed fast . Now I am recovering from my second partial knee replacement on my other leg and I’m five weeks out. Still have a lot of pain and I cry almost every day and feel like an idiot! these knee replacements are no joke! They are extremely painful. I do have two friends one is elderly and another younger who just recovered very quick! So I thought there was something wrong with me. But I think most people are like us. It takes months if not a year to totally heal from a surgery like this.
I'm one month post-op, and didn't start to get decent, mostly uninterrupted sleep until about a week ago. It hasn't been a pain issue, as such, but more like my leg/knee couldn't get comfortable. I've used a full length body pillow for some time before surgery, so I was accustomed to that already; glad to see it is a recommended position, and I think it's helped me sleep better as the discomfort diminishes. One thing I didn't know was where to position a pillow while on my back. Given my chronic knee issues before TKR, I'd be in pain if I let my leg go straight out so I'd typically keep a pillow under the knee when laying on my back. Post surgery I continued doing this, and it did feel comfortable, but after watching this video I'm going to move that pillow down to under my calf and see how that feels. Also, a Tylenol PM at bedtime is a good start, but I'm supplementing this with a Benadryl as well.
I had right knee replacement a week ago and have been struggling to find a way to stay asleep past an hour I will definitely be trying your suggestions. Thanks 🙏👍
Recovering from ACL and Mensiscus surgery. Really love sleeping in the side position.
Thankyou for sharing. I'm 3 weeks post op Unicompartmentel Replacement of the right knee. Getting a good night's sleep is very difficult at the moment and will try this tonight.
I’m doing good after 8 weeks but a warning about the first 3 weeks or so. On the second or third night after surgery I was in tremendous pain- I had shivers from pain for about 2 nights , no sleep but when I passed out for an hour or so - I couldn’t eat and lost about 24 lbs. in first 4 weeks, I survived on emergency shakes for seniors like Ensure, eventually taking in soups -so be aware what a monster pain can be! Yes I was on the phone with my doctor’s office and emergency nurses for a couple of weeks. I’m doing fine now, I think pain delayed my recovery . Just be aware - everyone has a different experience. FYI I sleep on my back now- I used to be a side sleeper but pain still come when I try this .
I'm glad I found this. I'm having a total knee replacement next Friday, December 16th.
Let me know how it went or how it's going I'm gonna do my tkr next month but cause my fear I'm not sure if I want to do it let me know plz how it was and how you are
@@miacoria501 hi! I was terrified to to be honest with you. It went fine. I had them put me completely out no epidural. I also had them put me out for the nerve block. I hate needles. Mine was out patient. I was the 1st surgery of the day about 6:45 and I think my son took me home at 1. I had 50% mobility my first day of PT on Dec 19. I had it again today. They have me doing more stuff now. I'm sleeping on my side finally :) last night is the best night sleep I've had in almost 2 weeks. The surgery is worth it in the long run. Little tip Tylenol is going to work better than pain pills trust me. Best of luck, much love! If you have any questions please let me know :)
Had my second tkr 4 hours ago, best thing ever. Attack the therapy as early as possible. Flexibility take priority over strengthening exercises. Good Luck
was a week before I got any real sleep after tkr, my surgeon would not give me any painkillers that would help. but three weeks after surgery things got much better.
I wish I had seen this before my surgery. Am now 4 weeks post-op TKA and by far my biggest challenge has been sleep deprivation. Since I am short discovered a lumbar pillow the perfect size between my legs. I just had to get onto my side.
I am one week post-op right full knee replacement. I have relied heavily on the Ice/Cryo technology and it works. My Rehab therapist is really one of the best in this space. I have to "Thank" all the people who have made videos and published them to help others recover better. If you're not totally sore after your rehab session... then you're doing something wrong. My PT pushes me to the limit... then I use the ice to drop the swelling.
I’m glad to have found this video. I am Not a back sleeper.Thank you SO much! I’m scheduled to have my surgery in the morning.
Invaluable, thank you. TKR tomorrow, and I am freaked about this whole thing, so thanks for the tips!
You’ll do great! Thanks for watching!
@@EquipMeOT It went well, 90 degree bend on day 5. This sleeping tip was invaluable!
🙌🏻 So glad to hear that!
I'm in my fifth day after total knee replacement and I've been tossing and turning every night. Thanks for the info!
You’re welcome!
Great Info. I’m 18 days post surgery for my left knee replacement . ( I had a right knee replacement last year, and it’s been very helpful to watch your videos for ongoing needs/changes and exercises etc. The Home Health agency I’ve used has been great, however, “mini-refreshers”, through your clear descriptions and physical examples reinforces and substantiates the benefits and importance of continued and repeated exercise. Thanks very much!!👍🌈🤗Sally H.
THANK YOU, I just recently had an mpfl reconstruction and I’ve been sleeping on my back for almost 2 weeks, it was getting uncomfortable, and then when I found this video I was immediately able to relax on a side position 👍
You’re welcome! So glad to help!
Much help, thank u!
Really really useful. My TKR is in @2 months so this will be sending me off to my local pillow supplier (in England John Lewis!) for ore supplies. Forewarned is forearmed. Great advice that I will follow. Thank you for taking the time to produce this must see video.
This is extremely helpful. I will definitely follow your recommendations for my second TKR. I wish I had seen this earlier.
I need to personally thank you for a good night’s sleep. Last night was night 6 of trying yo figure out how the heck to get comfy. Finally came across your video, committed to the side position (my usual one) and was amazing. Thanks for changing my life!,🎉
Glad I could help! 😴♥️
Excellent guidance. I had a TKR almost three weeks ago now. This info has been so helpful to me!
Thank you! I’m so glad to help!
Thank you... It helps alot 🙏 good luck to all other people recovering from knee replacement like me.. 🤗
I will say I just had Acl surgery and I slept horrible for the first few days and now I just found this thanks
Hope it helps!
@@EquipMeOT it did last night I slept awesome
Awesome!
I was finding very difficult to sleep on back last one week after my both knee operation. And Today I found this video of yours. Thanks very much. It's going to help me a lot as I am used to sleeping on sides and didn't know the correct way.
I hope this brings some comfortable sleep!
@@EquipMeOT .?
My surgery will be in 4 days. Thank you for this sleep position video. It will help a lot.
Buying more soft pillows.
Thank you for your clarity & understanding
Thanks for advice most appreciated two weeks into TKR pain in bed is a killer try what you said out last night slept longer and more comfortable. Many Thanks 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧✅
Thank you for your demonstration. I am a right side sleeper & my right knee is the first one being done next week. Also so blessed to bring back home my father’s wedge when he passed. I had a feeling I would use it.
I dislocated my knee and was really scared because I didn't know how to care for it but this video gave me one less thing to stress about tonight. Thank you for making this video 😊
Thank you so much for sharing this video. Having left knee replacement next week and I sleep on my left side. This was very helpful.
So glad to help!
THANK YOU! I'm 4 weeks after medial meniscus root repair. Wish I'd seen this sooner! Agree with everyone in comments that the PT and docs don't offer this kind of information or even suggest your channel. Wouldn't that be easy enough for them to at least let us know where we might find good info? Anyway, I have found lying on my side with operative leg on TOP with pillows exactly as you show does work pretty well. I was told to sleep with brace on in full extension but just couldn't sleep at all that way. I hope I haven't damaged the repair sleeping w/o brace. Thanks again ~ Marian
No I just had knee replacement in sept told to sleep with knee straight. Do not put under pillow. Had a great recovery did PT and excersises three times a day. Back to work after seven weeks
Great video I just had my total knee replacement today. I'll be using your advice tonight thank you
I spent Sunday morning reading about what to expect after TKR. Invaluable information I wish I had then. A few internet searches will serve you well. I'm pretty sure your surgery doc won't tell you.
@@jackcox22 . TEN / FOUR on the "medicine man" . Don't think you should be allowed to perform one unless you've HAD ONE ! !
What you'll BE USING is PAIN MEDS ! !
I had my TKR 6 days ago. I am so thankful I saw this video before I had it done. I am getting good rest, thanks to you!
That’s wonderful to hear! Best of luck for continued comfort and healing!
Invaluable Advise. Very Clearly Articulated.
Thank you very much!
You’re welcome!
This is the very best instructional video about sleeping following TKR I have ever seen. I had my right knee replaced about 5 years ago and will have a left TKR next month. Could you please help me to find the wedge that you demonstrated in the video. The Amazon link you included goes to a product that is very different. Thank you so very much!!
I’m sorry about that! This is the wedge I use:
amzn.to/3ti4RQZ
I'm having a total knee replacement on Friday. Thank you for your information and channel..
You're welcome! Best wishes on a speedy recovery!
Thank you so much for this video. I've just spent 10 weeks sleeping on my back after a knee replacement which resulted in a fractured Tibia so it's taken all this time for weight bearing. I had to set up a bed downstairs which was not as comfortable as my bed upstairs. Although I slept ok on my back, at times I really wanted to sleep how I usually sleep, on my side like you just demonstrated. I am going upstairs for the first time today so I'm looking forward to getting back to some normality. Thanks again for the tips.
Thanks for this video! I'm having my first knee done in a week and I've always slept on that side with a pillow between my knees. I didn't know I could lay on the surgical side at all. I've bought extra pillows and now I know how to place them. Hopefully I will be able to get some sleep off and on after surgery now.
Thank you! My mom is getting knee replacement in feb. you eased some of my nerves!
Wishing you and your mom the best!
The first two weeks are hell. No matter what you do .pain killers will help a little
I found your video very helpful I wish I would have found it earlier I'm 90 days out and I still can't sleep no more than 3 hours at a time no one told me it was going to be like this 👍
I’m sorry you’re struggling to sleep. 😕
I know what you mean. No one really explained to me how drawn out this could be.
I was told 6-8 weeks! Had I been told 6 months to 1 year I probably would have kept up with the injections and enjoyed life. I'm 6 weeks out and can't sleep more than 2-3 hours at a time. Hoping these tips help.
Really excellent. I utilize all of this info and am 2nd post op day! My husband,who is a well seasoned PT, loved it too!
That’s great! So glad to help!
Thank you very much this will really be helpful to me. I had a knee surgery two weeks ago.
You're welcome!
I wish I had seen this video last week after my surgery. I have had the worst time trying to sleep at night, which impeeds my husband's sleep as well. I have longed to sleep in the bed and tried to but could not get comfy. This video gives some great information as to "how" to do that. Thank you!
You’re welcome!
my father suffering with lack of sleep after knee replacement surgery. pls give me any suggestions to cure this prblm
Hello, thank you for the video - Once you get set, I'm assuming you cover up with sheets or blankets? Or should you sleep on top of the sheets?
Thank you. Good advice for sleeping aids and positions.
You’re welcome!
Thank you so much!!!! 2 weeks post op I finally got a decent stretch of sleep because of your great, easy to follow, tutorial on how to sleep comfortably!!!
I’m so glad it helped!
Thank you. My up coming surgery is nearly here and it's good to know how I'll be able to sleep in a twin bed (temp) then move onto my King size bed with my hubby. Yes, physical therapy is coming to my home to teach me things. Great video.
Thank you for the video. I did not receive any of this information prior to being released to go home from my surgery. I am three weeks post op ad will thy the side sleeping technique tonight.
You’re welcome! Hope it brings some comfort and quality rest 🤞🏻
Thank you so much for talking about side sleeping. I don’t sleep on my back at all.
You’re welcome! I’m a side sleeper too.
I recently had my right knee done I appreciate this an appreciate you Thank you ❤
I need one of those wedge supports for my swollen foot!
Great tips!! My knee replacement is 2/22/22 ...this video will for sure be helpful ...thank you !!
You’re welcome!
I hope your surgery went well... good luck in your recovery. I had mine done 2/2/22
I'm ok ...im on day 5 and it seems like this is the 1st night that I don't have ice on my leg and now I just can't sleep. I thought I'd be able to get out of bed by myself by now but no such luck ...but I know better days are coming 🤗
How's your progress ...are you doing OK?
@@AmazeVictoria it was hard while I was in the hospital, due to pain management. Advice stay on your pain medication around the clock. Set your alarm on your phone or whatever.... using ice helps, if you don't have ice packs fill baggies with ice and use.. freeze empty bottles or use anything in the freezer. I'm able to bend 110 on my own and I'm 5' degrees from completely straight.... do the pt at home. It helps... even if it is 1 set of 10reps. This is my 3rd surgery on my rt knee. Total knee 7/19 failed. Due to covid I had to wait til 4/21 for total knee replacement revision, everything going well then I fell down stairs which caused a random bone to form on my knee cap so 2/2/22 went in took bone out and replaced plastic devices... I've achieved my best results so far than any other surgeries in the past... I'm very 😊 😃 😀 happy
@@wendygonzales4287 the hospital gave me an electrical ice therapy machine that I use. I just plugged it back in and now I feel so much better. I haven't had any pain at all. Maybe a little discomfort & yes, I am taking ALL my meds as instructed ...my mom moved in the day I came home from the hospital and she has been a stickler when it comes to my meds & me doing all my exercises. I'm so happy that you sound like you're doing better this go round!
Great practical advice on a topic I haven't seen explained in such helpful detail. Thanks!
You’re welcome!!!
Thank you so much for creating this video ❤️ I just came home this evening and I'm having a hard time sleeping in my bed. I've been sleeping in the single mattress bed at the hospital and the couch at my mom's and I've done well with those. I have queen size mattress and I couldn't get comfortable so here I am on my couch. I decided to search for videos about sleeping after TKR and luckily found you! I will experiment with your pillow examples tomorrow and fingers crossed they work! Thank you again ❤️
Thank you so much, I have had excellent care thus far I am 1 wk out of surgury, BUT after finding your video this am this information is invaluable! Thank you!Thank you!!! I will be sharing this information with my PT ladies today!!!❤
Starting to prepare for surgery. Thank you.
Hope your surgery went well
It is approximately a week and a half since my knee replacement surgery as of this writing. It was my left knee. Your legs look symmetrical. My left right now is almost twice the size as my right .one. At the hospital I was informed that I should avoid putting any pillow or cushioning under my knee when I sleep on my back. Instead I should have my ankle elevated with pillows or towel or other cushioning . The leg should be kept as straight as possible . But I was also told by different Physical Therapists that progressively I will have to work on bending my leg even though it will be very painful pushing against the swelling and resistance. I was even told by one PT that at outpatient PT sessions the therapists would even force bend my leg to make it go into a 90 degree angle even if it hurts.
I will not let anyone do that to me. I have to do it with progression and as I am best able to manage the pain.
I have done this for a few years but specific positioning is good to know.
Outstanding information. I am preparing for this very event. Thank you for producing this information and demonstration on the correct way to re-position for comfort and rest.
Excellent! Thank you for watching!
Excellent video....I will try this next week when I have my left knee replaced. Thanks for such a good demonstration!
You hit it on the money... just got my partial knee replacement and been doing just that to get some sleep... Island Orthapeadics Hawaii..
Excellent! Wishing you successful healing!
@@EquipMeOT Thank You Very Much...
❤️🙏🏻Thank you for this🙏🏻❤️ I had my Right TKR last Thurs. Having Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Sclerosis etc it’s difficult getting comfortable but this video has really helped. 🙏🏻Blessings from Wales, UK 🙏🏻 x x
So glad to help!
Great advice. Having surgery next week so saving this for my recovery.
Best of luck with surgery!
Thank you. However, almost every other site says to avoid sleeping on the operated side. It is a very comfortable way to sleep, but I have been avoiding. I am 19 days post surgery now, but have been trying to sleep only on my back and keeping my leg as straight as possible. Sleeping is difficult. My worst problem, I would say.
I am going to try sleeping on my side with pillows tonight. Thank you!
Very good video with excellent information. Just had TKR 4 weeks ago.
Glad it was helpful!
Great ....That's my normally favorite sleeping position...You just made my day!
Five solid weeks, I had to sleep in my recliner. I’m just now 6 weeks post op able to lay down…. Not comfortably, but excited to get in bed anyway.
Thank you for amazing demonstration and information. It helps me rest at night and sleep better!
You’re welcome!!
From reading these comments it seems sleeplessness is a problem after a knee surgery. I will be having a TKR in two weeks . I’m a side sleeper and I hope this will help me . Can I sleep on my side on day one ?