Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > General Topics > The Lounge
o

Notices

The Lounge A Catch-All Area for NON-GUN topics.
PUT GUN TOPICS in the GUN FORUMS.
Keep it Family Friendly. See The Rules for Banned Topics!


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 10-12-2012, 06:42 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Red face Total knee replacement... in 4 days

The right knee has been chronic for 36 years, ever since I dropped a motorcycle on it doing 75. Recent X rays showed the arthritis to be severe and so next Wednesday I'll be going into the Tucson VA hospital for a full knee replacement. Now I know it will be a wonderful thing about 3 months from now when I have gotten through the rigors, not to mention the pain, of rehab but right now that sure looks to be a long way off.

I tend to heal quickly and do what the medical folks tell me to do but having fun is not on my list after Tuesday night. In anticipation of a couple of weeks doing sponge baths vs showers I went out and got my first GI, Basic Training special buzz job haircut since 1969 at Fort Ord. Tomorrow I'm going to try out the "Head Blade" for a full head shave. My bride says I look good, even younger... then she goes into the other room and laughs like a maniac. What's up with that??? Oh well this too shall pass (like a kidney stone).
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #2  
Old 10-12-2012, 06:47 PM
Damn Yankee Damn Yankee is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Gulf Coast Mississippi
Posts: 1,635
Likes: 147
Liked 1,067 Times in 376 Posts
Default

Good luck to you Capt.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 10-12-2012, 07:03 PM
ordy's Avatar
ordy ordy is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: May 2012
Location: suburban philadelphia
Posts: 738
Likes: 297
Liked 946 Times in 355 Posts
Default

I think you're gonna do better than you think. I've worked in an operating room for more than twenty years and have helped put my fair share of total knees and hips in people. I think you'll be surprised to find that the post operative pain may not be that much worse than the arthritis you are suffering from now. You should be out of bed on post op day two and will probably be home and sleeping on your own pillow in less than a week. Stay away from aspirin and ibuprophin(advil) for a while. The up side to all of this is that you may be able to get more range time in as you recover. Best of luck and let us know how things are progressing.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #4  
Old 10-12-2012, 07:20 PM
Iggy's Avatar
Iggy Iggy is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Wyoming
Posts: 10,419
Likes: 10,417
Liked 28,226 Times in 5,272 Posts
Default

I had a knee replaced last fall. When I woke up, I could tell a difference. There was the pain from the disruption of muscles and tendons, but the dull arthritic pain was gone.
I had the surgery Friday morning and walked out of the hospital Sunday afternoon and started therapy Tues afternoon.

Therapy was unpleasant for about a month, and by the sixth week I could tell a huge change and it got better and better from then on.

It will be easier than you think.

Good luck,

Last edited by Iggy; 10-12-2012 at 07:23 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #5  
Old 10-12-2012, 07:51 PM
jeffsmith's Avatar
jeffsmith jeffsmith is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: Pirate Coast FL
Posts: 1,446
Likes: 4,905
Liked 2,877 Times in 786 Posts
Default

Having had two Hip Replacements
I can vouch for the fact that the Pain of the Surgery & Recovery
is Generally Much Less than the Pre-Op Pain that Required it
__________________
Compact 9mm Just my $0.02
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 10-12-2012, 08:00 PM
charlie sherrill charlie sherrill is offline
SWCA Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Brooklyn,Ms. 39425
Posts: 4,793
Likes: 2,422
Liked 9,440 Times in 2,048 Posts
Default

I had both of them done. It was either that or retire before I wanted to. I just came back from a two mile walk with my dog.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #7  
Old 10-12-2012, 08:30 PM
StatesRightist StatesRightist is offline
Banned
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: South
Posts: 1,810
Likes: 2,026
Liked 1,451 Times in 555 Posts
Default

I know multiple people who've had knee operations. There are two types of people in that group, those that who do the rehab and work hard, they are so much better of than they were before and those who don't do the rehab, they are no better off and in pain. Do the Rehab, next year this time you be in a much better place.

Good luck with your surgery!
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 10-12-2012, 09:04 PM
Oldiron Oldiron is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Heart of Dixie
Posts: 978
Likes: 100
Liked 931 Times in 306 Posts
Default

Capt Steve, Had my left knee replaced May 1. Yes the first two weeks are painful but I will admit that week one I do not remember much. Good meds. Week three, I was able to sleep on my side again. Threw the walker away after three weeks and the cane after 6 weeks. In July, I started bailing hay again and have done about 1200 bails since. I would not put off a replacement for the right one if I needed it. One hint, throw away your old shoes since they will most likely be badly worn from the limp/favoring. I found my old shoes had a 1/2" worn away from the side of the heal and with the new ones my walk was nice and straight.
You have my prayers and empathy, but keep pushing the envelope in PT. Push it to the "hurts some" stage and soon it will not hurt.
Been There Done That,
Larry
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 10-12-2012, 09:09 PM
Buckey08 Buckey08 is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: mid-michigan
Posts: 600
Likes: 322
Liked 415 Times in 179 Posts
Default

Have had both done, done the rehab, walk 3 miles a day and can tell you after 2.5 years latter your life will change, some for the better, some for the worst. Legs will never bend the same as factory direct, If you can get by with what you have now I suggest you go till you have to crawl. If you talk to 10 people that have had it done you will get 10 different responses to how their doing now. Steps, ladders and things like putting on your under shorts, not to mention sitting on the toilet will take a new effort. No such thing AS FREE LUNCH and please believe me when I say nothing beats what the GOOD Lord makes! NOTHING!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #10  
Old 10-12-2012, 10:03 PM
yashua-p yashua-p is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Pensacola FL USA
Posts: 529
Likes: 1,236
Liked 230 Times in 122 Posts
Default

On a monday, I had my left hip done and the right a week later. One hospitalization one rehab. The next year, in 2003 I had the knees done the same way, The only regret is that I didn't
do it much sooner. Good luck and work at the rehab. It's well worth it.

regards

yashua
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #11  
Old 10-12-2012, 10:19 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Red face

Quote:
Originally Posted by Oldiron View Post
Capt Steve, Had my left knee replaced May 1. Yes the first two weeks are painful but I will admit that week one I do not remember much. Good meds. Week three, I was able to sleep on my side again. Threw the walker away after three weeks and the cane after 6 weeks. In July, I started bailing hay again and have done about 1200 bails since. I would not put off a replacement for the right one if I needed it. One hint, throw away your old shoes since they will most likely be badly worn from the limp/favoring. I found my old shoes had a 1/2" worn away from the side of the heal and with the new ones my walk was nice and straight.
You have my prayers and empathy, but keep pushing the envelope in PT. Push it to the "hurts some" stage and soon it will not hurt.
Been There Done That,
Larry
OldIron and everyone else, thanks for all of the encouragement and support. Great tip about replacing the old shoes, makes a lot of sense. Yes, I'll suck it up and do what I have to do and will end up far better for it but oh man it's going to sting for a while.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 10-12-2012, 11:01 PM
longranger longranger is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Buffalo WY
Posts: 423
Likes: 307
Liked 90 Times in 53 Posts
Default

I have had 2 partial knees replaced (Oxford) one in CA 2006, $90,000.00 workers comp paid. Last Dec. had the 2nd. knee done in S.C. insurance paid $49.000. First one(L-K) Dr. was o.k. and expensive,Dr. in S.C. fabulous, I have done paramedicine for 20+ years and have never seen or had as good care as I did at Self Regional Med. Ctr. in Greenwood S.C.I was off crutches 10 days after surgery and walking 2 mi. I had home therapy from the best PT's I have ever had until I could drive,2 weeks.Done with all of my P.T. after 5 weeks. I have had 6 knee surgeries from the incompetent, money sucking health care in CA.That includes UCSF,the worst orthopedic group ever.Elk hunt next week and been walking 7 mi. everyday since April.
If they want you to do 15 reps. of any exercise do 20, I had 125 deg. of flexion within a week(normal is 140+-).you will have a numb knee for several years until the nerves reestablish,Iggy has it, right both knees were much better right away, different pain. ICE,ICE,ICE, much better pain reliever than drugs you will need the drugs for a bit but give them up A.S.A.P.

Last edited by longranger; 10-12-2012 at 11:22 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 10-13-2012, 01:44 AM
MP1983's Avatar
MP1983 MP1983 is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Texas
Posts: 874
Likes: 1,266
Liked 436 Times in 122 Posts
Default

Cpt Steve,

Iggy got his knee done just a few weeks before me last year & was kind enough to offfer info on his surgery that gave me considerable comfort.

I agree with Buckeye 08 that it is never quite the same (how far you can bend the knee and that it doesn't always feel natural). But I'm able to put weight on mine again & have gotten that leg stronger than it has been in years - and it works beautifully for walking & stairs.

The first few weeks are rough, and after that it's still no picnic. But mine has continued to improve - you just have to put in the work.

I'll be prayin' for you buddy. Take care.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 10-13-2012, 01:50 AM
chud333's Avatar
chud333 chud333 is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: Indiana
Posts: 7,897
Likes: 31,497
Liked 22,512 Times in 4,626 Posts
Default

Good luck, and you'll be back among the "mobile"
before you know it. Work hard with the re-hab and
you'll be fine. No worries !!!

Chuck
__________________
They hold no Quarter
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 10-13-2012, 10:22 AM
OFT II's Avatar
OFT II OFT II is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Odessa, Texas
Posts: 3,219
Likes: 4,023
Liked 3,698 Times in 1,466 Posts
Default

Had both knees replaced. Little rough for a week or so afterwards but well worth it. Do the therapy. Try to get a young pretty therapist. She'll make the therapy a lot easier than having some dude that looks like a professional wrestler.

Good Luck.
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 10-13-2012, 10:35 AM
walkin jack's Avatar
walkin jack walkin jack is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Whitesboro, Texas
Posts: 8,513
Likes: 31,864
Liked 23,715 Times in 6,172 Posts
Default

In 1973 I was heavily into Motocross. Got my left leg broken out sideways at the knee. Shattered the tibial plateau. They put it back together as well as they could. Total replacement in '94. Total revision in '98. I have had to learn how to walk 3 more times than most people.

But let me assure you that the procedure for the surgery, the technology for the new knee has come a loooong way. I wish you a successful surgery and a complete, speedy recovery.

One bit of advice though. DO THE THERAPY. It doesn't matter how great the doctors did. If you don't do the therapy you will not walk. Best of luck to you!
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 10-13-2012, 10:44 AM
GaryS's Avatar
GaryS GaryS is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Republic of Texas
Posts: 11,345
Likes: 9,368
Liked 17,264 Times in 6,633 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by OFT II View Post
Had both knees replaced. Little rough for a week or so afterwards but well worth it. Do the therapy. Try to get a young pretty therapist. She'll make the therapy a lot easier than having some dude that looks like a professional wrestler.

Good Luck.
I swear that some schools have a bathing suit contest before a young woman can sign up to become a PT.

As to the knee, I haven't had to do either hips or knees so far, so my experience is from seeing others who have. Some people bounce back quickly, others don't. Attitude seems to have a lot to do with it, and that's reflected in participation in the process.

I think weight has a something to do with it too. Thinner people seem to do better, but that might not be directly related to weight, but to the more sedentary life style that many heavier people seem to have.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 10-13-2012, 12:26 PM
Rangerpat's Avatar
Rangerpat Rangerpat is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: NW FL
Posts: 1,565
Likes: 828
Liked 1,159 Times in 563 Posts
Default

Capt. Steve,
I had total knee replacement surgery on March 3, 2012. I did physical therapy at a rehab center, two-hours a day, four days a week, for 5 months and finally got my right knee to bend 120 degrees.
The only thing I can add to what others said, is that you get out of physical therapy what you put into it. Do all the exercises that they tell you to do. I used a "Stretch Out Strap" made by DKSA every day while sitting on the couch watching TV.
The only things I notice now is it's hard to kneel on my right knee and a pair of cowboy boots that use to fit me, no longer do.
My orthopedic surgeon told me that it takes up to one year for the knee to totally heal after surgery.
I have no problems climbing ladders to get into my treestands while hunting and the arthritc pain is now gone for the knee. The only thing I was told not to do is RUN; I have no problem hiking three miles with a 50 pound pack right now.
Good luck with the surgery!
__________________
"Life is short, hunt hard"
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 10-13-2012, 01:27 PM
flightsimmer's Avatar
flightsimmer flightsimmer is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Indianapolis, SE side
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
Liked 27 Times in 10 Posts
Default

It was the best decision I ever made. I suffered for decades. Now I enjoy life pain free.
You'll do fine.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 10-13-2012, 04:42 PM
Indiana George Indiana George is offline
US Veteran
Absent Comrade
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Central Indiana
Posts: 1,172
Likes: 463
Liked 130 Times in 64 Posts
Thumbs up

Good luck to you, Capt. Steve!

I know that you'll do well by doing the rehab.

Looking forward to your next set of camping/hiking photos
taken in the Arizona desert that I miss so much.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 10-13-2012, 06:02 PM
JJEH's Avatar
JJEH JJEH is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Central Texas
Posts: 7,437
Likes: 13,465
Liked 8,495 Times in 2,835 Posts
Default

Had an m/c accident as well and 4x surgery, but luckily no replacement tho.

Keep your head up and good luck!
__________________
Jorge
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 11-02-2012, 08:08 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Red face I'm baaaack....

I was released from the rehab Ward at the VA hospital today, 17 days after my knee replacement surgery. Everyone says the surgery went very well and I cannot begin to convey how good it felt to shuffle out the door on my walker. I was kept in the post op surgical ward for 6 days and then transferred to the Rehab Ward for 11 more.

I had no freaking clue going in as to the level of pain that lay ahead. I'm hopeful that it will all have been worthwhile at some point down the road but as of today I would never have another knee replacement. I got my knee to bend 90 degrees yesterday and still have a long way to go. I'll be starting a new round of Physical Therapy on Monday and will be working my *** off to get the maximum benefit from that. The PT I got at the VA was hindered by severe under medication over the first 3 days of therapy but once they kicked up the meds it became much more doable.

Wasn't expecting a 17 day stay but did not have much say in the matter. Lots of good things and some not so good things to report on the VA but overall I think it went pretty well. Thanks again to one and all for your support.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 11-02-2012, 08:27 PM
Iggy's Avatar
Iggy Iggy is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Wyoming
Posts: 10,419
Likes: 10,417
Liked 28,226 Times in 5,272 Posts
Default

I'm betting that 6 weeks after the surgery, you will have come along far enough to say it was all worth while. However, my Doc prescribed an appropriate level of medication.. I was uncomfortable but not miserable. I got real well acquainted with an ice pump and that helped immensely with the swelling.
I got out of the hospital in 2 days and was in therapy 2 days later.
The therapist was my age and had a knee replaced too. He was firm but not a dictator. Did therapy for 8 weeks. Went back to the Doc to see how things were going and he said you can quit therapy when you feel like it. He said it will take a year to be fully over it.

I've got until the day after Thanksgiving to make that determination.
I ain't never gonna run a marathon or even a 100 yards, but I haven't used a cane since the surgery and I'm durn sure better off than I was before the surgery.

I will probably have to have the other knee replaced one day, but I'm a long ways from being ready yet.

You hang in there and you will do fine.

Last edited by Iggy; 11-02-2012 at 08:35 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 11-03-2012, 08:00 AM
JJEH's Avatar
JJEH JJEH is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Central Texas
Posts: 7,437
Likes: 13,465
Liked 8,495 Times in 2,835 Posts
Default

What ever you do Capt. Steve, take it easy and don't put too much stress on your knee. Wish you a fast and full recovery!
__________________
Jorge
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 11-03-2012, 09:32 AM
Rangerpat's Avatar
Rangerpat Rangerpat is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: NW FL
Posts: 1,565
Likes: 828
Liked 1,159 Times in 563 Posts
Default

Capt. Steve,
Be patient, and do the therapy as required by your MD. When not at PT use a "Stretrch Out Strap" while watching TV to do knee bending exercises. You will get frustrated at times thinking your recovery is so slow, BUT in 5-6 months you will be doing so much better.
I just returned from a 10 day hunting trip, I did a lot of walking with a light pack and muzzleloader rifle and had help dragging and lifting two wild hogs and one deer into the bed of my pickup truck. I had total knee replacement 9 months ago.
You can do it, be patient.... I was on oxycodone for the first 5 weeks and then switched to Aleve. I always had ice packs ready to put on my knee after PT (2 hrs. a day /4-5 days a week).
Be EXTREMELY CAREFUL when walking with your cain, it took me awhile to get my balance with my new knee.
As others have said, in a few months you will be very glad that you had the surgery. Good luck, Gimpy!
__________________
"Life is short, hunt hard"
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 11-28-2012, 10:33 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Talking Update

It has been 6 weeks and I am still slogging through the rehab. I have made a lot progress, especially over the last weeks here at home. Luckily for me our community has several gorgeous pools (lap, therapy etc), and a couple of the best equipped gyms you ever saw. I do Physical Therapy at the VA clinic 3 times a week and everyday at the local facilities.

It took a little more than a month before I could crank the recumbent bike a full 360 degrees and the first couple of times I made a single revolution my eye balls popped right out of my skull. I'd worked up to about 6 revolutions when today I think some of the scar tissue let loose and I was able to crank off 30 revolutions. I'm paying for it now but it hurts so good. I get to start driving again on Friday and have weened myself down to just 3 or 4 pain pills a day. I think the continued progress will increase over the next few weeks and hope to be pretty close to what passes for "normal" by the middle of January.

Almost time to get out to the mountain for some shooting and who knows maybe even a little golf eventually. I have a birthday coming up and haven't had a beer since October 16th due to all the meds I have been on. My B'day treat is going to a nice tall cold one ("one" being a relative term).

The best news is I've lost 19 pounds. Thanks again for all of your support as it has meant a lot. Cheers!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #27  
Old 11-28-2012, 11:09 PM
Iggy's Avatar
Iggy Iggy is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Wyoming
Posts: 10,419
Likes: 10,417
Liked 28,226 Times in 5,272 Posts
Default

I borrowed a stationary bike from the guy across the street. First time I got on it I was trying to force my way over the top for a full 360 rotation when the seat collapsed.

That smarted a whole bunch

Well, that sure took care of bending my knee as far as needed and left the air purty blue for quite a while.

Talk about jerking a bandage off all at one time instead of doing it slow.

I think you will find that things improve pretty quick now. You're over the hump.

I had to drive to therapy after the first week. That was the easy part. The snow and ice between the parking area and the building was the hard part.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 11-29-2012, 03:32 AM
TACC1 TACC1 is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Wautoma, WI 54982
Posts: 4,118
Likes: 6,564
Liked 799 Times in 499 Posts
Default

Capt. Steve,
Good for you on getting the operation. There are
folks out there that don't get fixed up because they fear
the pain. They're not moving around much, either.
Your world is just starting to open up again.
Hang in there! TACC1
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 03-06-2013, 07:16 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Angry The new knee just isn not working out....

I just reread my last post from November 28th... and I was an incredible optimist. Here I am well into March, four and half months after my surgery and things are not going well. The knee remains severely swollen and extremely painful.

The Radiologist who read my last set of X rays at the end of January noted as follows: Primary Diagnostic Code: "ABNORMALITY, ATTN. NEEDED" and yet I did not even get a phone call from my doc. Three unreturned calls later I finally managed to through and get an appointment.

Today I met with my surgeon and let him have it. He can find nothing wrong but looks at my knee and agrees there is something wrong. When we finished our little chat I left the VA with a full set of X rays (the large hard copies) and all of his patient notes. They are scheduling me with an orthopedic surgeon outside of the VA on the VA's dime. I should hear from them by the weekend.

My pain levels following a workout jump up to around 6 and though I've managed to get down to just one happy pill a day that usually means about 20 hours of miserable out of every 24. I have worked my *** off in rehab hitting the gym 7 days a week and up until a month ago was getting PT at the VA clinic 2 or 3 times a week. My Physical Therapist is afraid to touch me due to the "abnormality" so that source of therapy has disappeared like a virgin on prom night. I ride the bike 3 miles, hit the leg press aggressively and then lift weights for 30 to 45 minutes every day. I follow up every afternoon with a walk with my bride and da pooch. Every other day I swim 40 laps (1,000 meters) in under 30 minutes.

The good news is that other than the knee I'm in the best shape I've been in since basic training. Still down almost 15 pounds and feeling pretty good. Oh well time for a cold one, sigh.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 03-06-2013, 07:24 PM
Old TexMex's Avatar
Old TexMex Old TexMex is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: South of the Nueces
Posts: 9,273
Likes: 23,812
Liked 20,090 Times in 5,871 Posts
Default

Steve, I have a good friend who is a fishing guide, WWII vet(no spring chicken) who has both knees replaced and he's still climbing around on boats! And he's far from the only one here in my home town. You'll do fine, God bless ya, amigo. We just don't heal up as fast as we used to. Hang in there.
__________________
Halfway and one more step

Last edited by Old TexMex; 03-06-2013 at 07:26 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 03-06-2013, 07:45 PM
badguybuster badguybuster is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: WV
Posts: 1,252
Likes: 7
Liked 244 Times in 74 Posts
Default

My ex wife had both done. The recovery is pretty quick. Good luck
__________________
Dyin ain't much of a livin
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 03-06-2013, 07:50 PM
ladder13 ladder13 is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: NC
Posts: 30,692
Likes: 57,549
Liked 52,819 Times in 16,468 Posts
Default

I have a friend who's had both replaced 2x, and he's no better off today than the day before either surgery. Good luck to you.
__________________
Sure you did
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 03-06-2013, 07:57 PM
don5 don5 is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: May 2010
Location: WVA
Posts: 1,495
Likes: 4,288
Liked 1,043 Times in 621 Posts
Default

Steve, Hang in there and wait until the ortho surgeon looks at it. The ortho guy has probably seen this before and knows exactly what is going on. He will tell you what needs done to correct the problem. I am a COTA and it sounds to me like you are doing the right things as far as therapy. I have not seen anyone with complications such as you describe. Hopefully everything gets fixed and you get down the recovery road. My thoughts will be with you and I wish you the best. Oh by the way, sorry, I am no bathing beauty! Actually, most women in the therapy field like to see us guys. We get to deal with the retired, ex gunny that listens to no woman! I usually have no problem with those guys either.
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 03-06-2013, 08:10 PM
jgh4445's Avatar
jgh4445 jgh4445 is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Alabama
Posts: 893
Likes: 351
Liked 433 Times in 215 Posts
Default

Good luck and Gods Speed Capt. Steve!
__________________
War Eagle!!!
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 03-06-2013, 11:56 PM
Oldiron Oldiron is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Heart of Dixie
Posts: 978
Likes: 100
Liked 931 Times in 306 Posts
Default

Steve, I hate to say it but there are some folks around here that have had to have the knee replacement redone because their body was rejecting the joint. The husband of one of the women my wife is in a quilt guild with in particular. Even then they had to put a pump on his new one once for swelling, it is doing well now. The VA told my B-I-L that he didn't need his knees replaced and after one trip to an orthopedic doc after he got on medicare he was told that he needed both knees replaced because he was actually splintering the joints from them rubbing bone on bone.
I am at 10 months with mine and other than some scar tissue I am still fighting I am doing great. Hope the new Doc has some help for you without further pain. Maybe you just need to have a pump on it for a few days.
Will keep you in my prayers,
Larry
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 03-07-2013, 01:30 AM
rwsmith's Avatar
rwsmith rwsmith is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: (outside) Charleston, SC
Posts: 30,918
Likes: 41,503
Liked 29,153 Times in 13,781 Posts
Default Modern medicine

Medicine has come a long, long way. Hope you have little pain and a lot of good luck.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 03-07-2013, 02:15 AM
charlie sherrill charlie sherrill is offline
SWCA Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Brooklyn,Ms. 39425
Posts: 4,793
Likes: 2,422
Liked 9,440 Times in 2,048 Posts
Default

Had one done in 05, the other in 08. Both are doing fine and it's the best thing I've ever done.
Reply With Quote
  #38  
Old 03-07-2013, 09:40 AM
pawncop pawncop is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: TEXAS
Posts: 18,248
Likes: 7,989
Liked 5,675 Times in 2,190 Posts
Default

Best of luck and a prayer for your complete healing. Mrs. Pawncop had both knees replaced (at the same time) and did remarkably well. Followed the rehab instructions and exercised as directed.
__________________
I am a sheep dog!
1601 (ret)
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 04-01-2013, 06:03 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Angry this just gets better and better....

We just got home from the VA where I got a second opinion on my knee from a different surgeon(I am 5.5 months down the road since the surgery). We had been telling my original surgeon for the last three months that I obviously have a serious infection given the swelling, very warm to the touch, high pain levels etc.. He kept saying no, it was not an infection but at the same time claimed he had no idea what could be wrong with my knee all the while acknowledging that "something" was wrong. My new surgeon, took one look at my knee, laid his hand on it and announced that I have a serious infection. He drew some fluid from my knee (oh that was fun), and sent me to the lab for blood work.

The bottom line is I go back to see him next Monday for the lab results.... and to schedule the surgeries (yes, as in more than one), to fix my knee. I asked him to call me this week when he got the lab results but he refused. He said that conversation is going to have to be face to face because "you are going to freak". Can't tell you how much I am looking forward to that little chat. Because the infection has been there for 3 months it will take at least that long to clear it up. Antibiotics just won't do it. I'll find out on Monday just how they go about it but he is anticipating two additional surgeries. First the new knee has to come out (as soon as possible), but they cannot put another new knee in until the infection is gone. So long as the infection is kept out of bloodstream I should be OK but if it gets in there I will be in serious trouble. They will replace the old "new Knee" with a "spacer" which will keep my leg straight and probably stiff as a board for three months while they clear out the infection. Once the infection is gone they can go back in, remove the spacer and do a whole new knee replacement. If I am really lucky it will only take about 6 months give or take a month. The last 6 months of pain and misery have all been for absolutely nothing!

Obviously our dream trip (May thru September across the western US in our travel trailer - which we'd been planning for 5 years), this summer has disappeared like a fart in the wind. With a little luck I may be up and around by October or November. Looks to be a long hot summer as I will be on crutches and or a walker for months. Just hoping for a decent Monsoon to pass the time.

Other than that.... Mrs. Lincoln, how did you like the play?
Reply With Quote
  #40  
Old 04-01-2013, 06:28 PM
doublesharp's Avatar
doublesharp doublesharp is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Derby City
Posts: 4,532
Likes: 4,618
Liked 7,407 Times in 2,221 Posts
Default

tough news. prayers sent for a speedy recovery.
__________________
God spelled backwards is dog.
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 04-01-2013, 06:44 PM
Onomea's Avatar
Onomea Onomea is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Oregon & Japan
Posts: 14,106
Likes: 45,806
Liked 33,045 Times in 9,027 Posts
Default

CaptSteve, I just read through this whole saga.... What an incredibly unfortunate experience. Your first doctor, who couldn't figure out that you had an infection, sounds like an incompetent fool.

I think you should shoot him.

You've had a rough road behind you, and what sounds like an even tougher road ahead of you. Reading how you have handled it to date, though, I am really impressed. You are one tough guy.

Hang in there, bro, and keep up the reporting. Your grit is an inspiration to us all.
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 04-01-2013, 06:56 PM
timn8er's Avatar
timn8er timn8er is offline
Absent Comrade
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: TEXAS!!!
Posts: 8,358
Likes: 13,912
Liked 21,084 Times in 4,913 Posts
Default

Man, I feel your pain, & I mean that literally! Sometime back, my health took a "turn", & I did about six months in the hospital, ninety days of that in Cardiac Intensive Care. My Dad told me after I was out that at one point the docs were basically rolling the dice on my chances. I finally made it out of there & into Rehab, & they decided I needed a pacemaker. So, back to Cardiac. They put the pacemaker in & I went back to Rehab. I was doing good, but one day one of the therapists noticed blood on the chest of my hospital gown. Yep, pacemaker site infected. Back to Cardiac. They removed the infected one & installed a temporary external one to allow me to "heal". Back to Rehab. They put a wonderful machine on my first pacemaker site that drew the infection out. I wish I could remember the name of it, but I have tried to forget a lot of stuff that happened in that time period. So, infection gone? Back to Cardiac. This time, I think there was a lot more supervision, both in person & from above, if you get what I'm saying. I guess the whole point of this long ramble is to say never give up & NEVER doubt the efficacy of prayers. Mine are headed your way!
__________________
Lounge Lizard Extraordinaire

Last edited by timn8er; 04-01-2013 at 08:21 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #43  
Old 04-01-2013, 07:55 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Red face

Quote:
Originally Posted by Onomea View Post
CaptSteve, I just read through this whole saga.... What an incredibly unfortunate experience. Your first doctor, who couldn't figure out that you had an infection, sounds like an incompetent fool.

I think you should shoot him.

You've had a rough road behind you, and what sounds like an even tougher road ahead of you. Reading how you have handled it to date, though, I am really impressed. You are one tough guy.

Hang in there, bro, and keep up the reporting. Your grit is an inspiration to us all.
THANK YOU! Your kind words have done more to salvage a pretty tough day than I can ever express. I will get through this but worry about the toll it takes on my family, especially my bride. I'm a pretty heavy load sometimes.
Reply With Quote
  #44  
Old 04-01-2013, 10:57 PM
don5 don5 is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: May 2010
Location: WVA
Posts: 1,495
Likes: 4,288
Liked 1,043 Times in 621 Posts
Default

Steve, I am sorry to hear about your knee. Concentrate on making the trip next year and how much fun you will have walking around all of the sites pain free. Let that be your long term goal. Take it one day at a time and it will be in the past quickly. Look at everything as a hoop you have to go through. Get through one and focus on the next one. Check each one off of your list as you go. I wish you the best in your journey. I will be thinking of you.
Reply With Quote
  #45  
Old 04-02-2013, 01:47 AM
TACC1 TACC1 is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Wautoma, WI 54982
Posts: 4,118
Likes: 6,564
Liked 799 Times in 499 Posts
Default

Geez, Cap'n Steve, what a kick in the pants. Good thing you're
tough, though; woulda killed a lesser man. At least you've got
someone competent working with you now.
Sounds like you've found a candidate to carry your decoys out
on opening day of Gun/Deer season!
TACC1
Reply With Quote
  #46  
Old 04-23-2013, 12:26 PM
Capt Steve Capt Steve is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 761
Liked 2,879 Times in 417 Posts
Angry Bum knee update

This just keeps getting better and better.... unlike my knee. The new surgeon is great and though he was convinced that I did in fact have an infection he wanted to eliminate one more possible problem. While it is extremely rare an adverse allergic reaction and/or sensitivity to the metal (Chromium), in the new knee will mimic an infection. He sent me to the Dermatology Dept where they conducted a week long "Patch" test. On Monday they applied 80 patches to my back and trussed me up like a Christmas goose. They jokingly referred to the wrap of bandages on my back as "The Straight Jacket" and it felt like one.

On Wednesday they read the results and did a second reading on Friday. Guess what? Yep, I am allergic to Cobalt and Nickel both of which are found in my new knee. The good news is there's an 80% chance that I do not have an infection and that my symptoms were all due to my body rejecting the Chromium knee (that has been in for 6 months). They won't know until surgery and the results of the biopsy come back from Pathology. If no infection (Hooray!), he will remove the old knee and put in a Titanium knee and I should be good to go in a couple of months. I may still have an infection in which case I'm really screwed and the spacer goes in for three months before the new Titanium knee.

The bad news is the VA does not have any Titanium knees laying around and the the only manufacturer is not under contract with the VA. My doc is trying to track one down and or wade through the bureaucracy at the VA to get one ordered (good luck with that doc). In the mean time I am at the top of the waiting list for surgery once they can get their hands on my new knee. Hoping for surgery my mid May but it could be June....ARRRRG!
Reply With Quote
  #47  
Old 04-23-2013, 12:52 PM
Iggy's Avatar
Iggy Iggy is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Wyoming
Posts: 10,419
Likes: 10,417
Liked 28,226 Times in 5,272 Posts
Default

Hang in there.. You'll get it whipped.
Reply With Quote
  #48  
Old 04-23-2013, 01:31 PM
pawncop pawncop is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: TEXAS
Posts: 18,248
Likes: 7,989
Liked 5,675 Times in 2,190 Posts
Default

So sorry to learn of your "adventure". Hope it is resolved soon. Prayer from Texas for your complete healing.
__________________
I am a sheep dog!
1601 (ret)
Reply With Quote
  #49  
Old 04-23-2013, 05:54 PM
Oldiron Oldiron is offline
US Veteran
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Heart of Dixie
Posts: 978
Likes: 100
Liked 931 Times in 306 Posts
Default

Dang Capt Steve, Has been a long road for you to get to this point but there is some light at the end of the tunnel and hopefully this time it isn't a train. One of the questions I asked my doc before he did my knee was what brand and model they used. Luckily mine was titanium and I could find no bad press on the internet with the make or model. Will keep you on my prayer list.
Larry
Reply With Quote
  #50  
Old 04-23-2013, 06:25 PM
snubbyfan's Avatar
snubbyfan snubbyfan is offline
Member
Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days Total knee replacement... in 4 days  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: WVa East Panhandle
Posts: 28,590
Likes: 70,879
Liked 81,379 Times in 18,440 Posts
Default

Sounds like quite the ordeal but at least they're onto a way to help and aren't just sayin' "I don't know."
Looking foward to reading about how you're back on your feet and doin' well.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
possible knee replacement rock n roll kid The Lounge 23 06-24-2014 01:25 PM
Total Knee Replacement........... Thicker The Lounge 27 07-29-2011 08:36 AM
Total Knee Replacement Senior Citizen The Lounge 21 12-12-2010 12:40 PM
"The" VA, Grade IV Chondromalacia and/or Total Knee Replacement Senior Citizen The Lounge 4 10-20-2010 07:53 PM
Total knee replacement surgery 2 weeks ago E Z MUNNY The Lounge 24 03-12-2009 09:39 AM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 06:25 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)