Perhaps because I now had one good knee to stand on, or perhaps because I didn't experience any falls that set my recovery back, this one was a breeze. Well, almost!
My primary care physician had prescribed a medication that disarmed the fibromyalgia; I did not fall two times in the two days following surgery, I was totally off any pain medication in less than 6 weeks, my physical therapy progressed so well that I needed only the in-home therapy.
During my initial visit to the (same) surgeon to discuss and schedule this surgery, I suggested that maybe the second one wouldn't be so bad. He said to me, "No, it will be just as bad." I guess I went into the hospital with an expectation of a lot more discomfort and pain. It just didn't happen. Everything was tolerable. The physical therapist was super, and I was walking without even a cane by the 6-week visit. I did not need to go to the physical therapy clinic to complete the rehabilitation.
I bought sets of "walking poles" for my husband and myself (clinics can usually be found through local YMCAs). We walk the local walking trails - haven't tried the beach yet. When he's not available, I walk 48 laps (1 mile) around our swimming pool. (The physical therapist measured that off for me.)
"If I can do it, you can do it" is such a trite old phrase, but I truly believe it this time. I was the most unlikely candidate ever for even one knee replacement. Instead, I have had two, and I am so ever grateful for all the medical personal who have "put me back together, better than ever."
My primary care physician had prescribed a medication that disarmed the fibromyalgia; I did not fall two times in the two days following surgery, I was totally off any pain medication in less than 6 weeks, my physical therapy progressed so well that I needed only the in-home therapy.
During my initial visit to the (same) surgeon to discuss and schedule this surgery, I suggested that maybe the second one wouldn't be so bad. He said to me, "No, it will be just as bad." I guess I went into the hospital with an expectation of a lot more discomfort and pain. It just didn't happen. Everything was tolerable. The physical therapist was super, and I was walking without even a cane by the 6-week visit. I did not need to go to the physical therapy clinic to complete the rehabilitation.
I bought sets of "walking poles" for my husband and myself (clinics can usually be found through local YMCAs). We walk the local walking trails - haven't tried the beach yet. When he's not available, I walk 48 laps (1 mile) around our swimming pool. (The physical therapist measured that off for me.)
"If I can do it, you can do it" is such a trite old phrase, but I truly believe it this time. I was the most unlikely candidate ever for even one knee replacement. Instead, I have had two, and I am so ever grateful for all the medical personal who have "put me back together, better than ever."
Comments
Meno51948
Thank you , you are very inspiring .
Beckymc
this is so encouraging. I had my left knee done in early July. I returned to work full time at five weeks, but that was pushing it. I still get so much pain and tightness by the end of the work day. I am encouraged by your story because I plan to have my right one done right after Thanksgiving. I appreciate you sharing your story.
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