Post liver transplant weakness in legs

[Anna1963]

Just had my liver transplant but unfortunately after a further two surgeries for haemetomas I find I am so weak that find it difficult to get into standing and become independent. After the actual transplant could walk around the ward. Any help please!

[AyrshireK]

It is very early days and you have been through major surgery(ies) which will inevitably take time to get over. As I understand it from hubbies transplant assessment you will have input from the physiotherapists in the transplant team who will work with you over coming days and weeks as you regain your strength and get you gradually up and mobile and on your way to indendence again. Everyone's recovery is a individual journey but trust that your medical team will support you every step of the way. I know that at Edinburgh from speaking with other post transplant patients they like to have you up out of your bed/chair and mobilising as soon as you are able. It'll come ........... don't panic but do remember what you've been through only very recently.

All the very best for a steady recovery.

Katie

[Anna1963 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks. Physio working on it. The most annoying thing is that I was up and about posy transplant. But the further surgeries and an infection have made my legs so swollen and weak.

[grace111]

hoping that you get well again soon anna. keep your chin up. love grace xoxo 🙋🏼

[Katherine1962]

Hope things improve -must be frustrating

[Jahida]

Hello Anna

There will be physios on ward helping you regain your strength and setting you goals. Like yourself, my legs were swollen massively that two nurses would have to lift them up onto the bed for me. I could not even lift them a centimetre upwards. I remember as soon as I regain consciousness they put me out on the chair to sit up. They also made me stand up and motion to left and right with my legs, although I felt like I was going to collapse and I was still so drowsy.

The swelling will go down eventually. My swelling lasted a month sadly. I couldn't eat and they did say the more I eat and drink, it will help the swelling. Eventually I ended up with NG tube again and that actually helped the swelling. One night I woke up and was surprised to see tiny legs!!

They should also give you a walking stick which should be measured to your height etc. I was given one. I would hold the railings on the side of the ward and the walking stick on the other hand and walk like I was on a marathon. I'd set myself goals because it had to be done gradually.

You've had a few big surgeries on top of another so you're body is very weak. Drink plenty of water if you can and if the water tastes horrible add some squash. Try to drink those horrible formulas and hopefully you'll be OK. But give yourself time. Do not pressure yourself too much.

Good luck

[Helenatonge]

I had 2 liver transplant 9 years in 24 hours of each other was very ill in bed for 4 weeks could not walk when I went to get up I never thought I get few but I did with in 2 weeks of hard work I was walking again slow presses but your get there hope all goes well Helena x

[Anna1963 in reply to Helenatonge]

Thank you have been walking with physics and Zimmer frame so feel hopeful now. I can do it!

[Anna1963 in reply to Helenatonge]

Thanks feeling more hopeful now

[Brummi]

Hi, your body has undergone a major operation. It will take time to get used to it. Fatigue and a few aches are inevitable just take it easy and you will get there.

[Anna1963 in reply to Brummi]

Thanks for encouragement

[vpinny]

Hello.

Just take each day at a time and don't be too hard on yourself. You WILL get there.

I had 2 transplants within 5 days in February 2015, was in hospital for almost 6 weeks and really did have to learn to do everything again as had so much muscle wastage. I would look at people walking about and can remember thinking to myself 'I'm never going to be like that again' but very slowly it does all come back.

I am now back at work part time and also volunteer at the John Radcliffe hospital talking to other patients with liver problems.

It just takes time. Stay strong 🙂

[Anna1963 in reply to vpinny]

Thanks