Total Knee Replacement Surgery

[february]

Hi All, Well, I'm going to have Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery for my left knee soon and I'm a bit leary about it due to my ataxia. My neurologist says to have it, as he wants me to keep moving. I haven't really been able to, as I'm in so much pain, especially when I walk with my cane or rollator. He did say to make sure my hips and quads are strong. The orthopedic surgeon who is going to do the surgery sent me to physical therapy two times per week for eight weeks to see if it helped my knee and to strengthen my muscles. I was able to do the exercises with little pain (so surprised), fortunately! I do them at home as I can, also. Knee is pretty much the same, but I am stronger! The OS also watched me walk initially veak down the appliance that is used in the TKR. I saw him again after I finished PT and he said he'd do the surgery now as my walking is better and muscles are stronger (for rehab after the surgery). Does anyone else have an experience with this? if so, how did you fare?

Thank You, February ;o)

[february]

i meant to say: OS watched me walk and said hyperextending my knee would break down the appliance used in the TKR...

[Litty]

Good luck with surgery - and I am sure it will go really well, but be sure the anaesthetist understands that you have ataxia and your throat muscles may be weaker than normal - a long time ago now my Dad who had ataxia had a routine operation but aspirated twice in the recovery room and later died x

[piglet3]

All the best to you. I’m sure the operation will give you a new lease of life. Kay.

[february]

Thanks for your advice Litty and kind words Litty and Kay! ;o)

[Shahidzak]

Good morning all I’m due to have TKR soon advice would be great

[Staggy1]

Good luck with the surgery. I’ve only heard good things about the results afterwards. You’ll be doing pain free cart wheels before long! 😘

[ConfusedAtaxian]

Not had any help at all. Good luck with the op

[Stacpolly]

Hi

I have a hole in my Kneecap. Found in 3013. The Orthopedic surgeon view was not to have a replacement knee as he would have to cut / re attach muscles and this would weaken them permanently and he was unsure whether this was a good idea with my decline. I use bikes at the Gym to slow my leg / heart muscular atrophy (I have found times when they are unused and I can do everything at my own pace). I also do physio at home every day. My knee is now not the limiting factor.