KNEE +5 WEEKS

Week 5, 35 days since surgery. In a way, this has been a long journey. But in another way, the time seems very short. The PT says that I am where most TKR patients are in 12 weeks. I have 123 degrees ROM, and I can use the stationary bike. The PT has added exercises that address my back problems, and they seemed to have helped a little. She is no adding exercises that are designed to build strength around the knee itself. She will be adding exercises that I can use in the swimming pool that will be very helpful.

The OS is pleased with the progress, and is no longer concerned with the sore in the incision. I will see him next week for the last visit.

I have read that some people are not happy or satisfied with the TKR until 6 months to a year. I have been very happy since the first day. Yes, it was difficult to move my leg. Yes, it hurt like the devil. Yes, I had to work at it. But, it was all worth the effort and pain. Today I am walking without any pain in that joint. It is still a little tight, and the muscles are still sore, but there is no pain from the joint itself. I am happy!

KNEE +4 WEEKS

During week four I had a bit of an issue with a small place in the incision. At first there was just a red place about the size of a pencil eraser. Then a small place opened and began to drain just a little. I was concerned that it might be infected. I could squeeze it and a bit of bloody pus ran out. I went to see the OS. He said he thought it was just a stitch that might be working its way out. He put antibiotic ointment and a bandage on it, and prescribed a 7-day round of oral antibiotics. At the end of the 7 days the place had pretty much cleared up. There is just a very small scab left. The OS still thinks it was a stitch. I am feeling really good, and I am getting around very well.