8 Reasons you feel so tired after your total knee replacement surgery.

8 Reasons You Get Tired So Fast After My Total Knee Replacement
Difficulty Sleeping
Sleep disturbances is part of the recovery process. I have been a licensed physical therapist since 2006 and over that time I have never met a patient who told me he was sleeping like a baby the day after surgery.
Most patients are struggling to get comfortable and manage the soreness weeks and even months after surgery.
If you can’t sleep you can be sure that you will feel fatigued during the day.
Dietary Changes
After a total knee replacement surgery, you may experience a loss of appetite or nausea. It is common to experience constipation and/or diarrhea. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you are not likely eating as well as you normally would. This lack of nutrition may affect your energy levels.
I also know many patients who are diabetic may be experiencing difficulty managing blood sugar levels after surgery. The stress of surgery, lack of sleep, and pain are all factors that could raise blood sugar levels.
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About the author:
Hi, my name is Anthony (Tony) Maritato, PT. I am a licensed physical therapist and owner of Total Therapy Solutions. I have specialized in helping clients recover from total knee replacement surgery since 2002 and have created this video to help YOU.
Total Therapy Solutions
5900 Long Meadow Dr
Middletown, OH 45005
[phone]

[@michelleoneal9753]

I'm eight weeks out and wondering why I'm so depressed. I had no idea this would be so difficult. I'm glad I found your video. Thank you

[@kaylabrown9222]

I felt the same way. It's hard to go from being self sufficient with no pain, to becoming dependent on others and have knee pain and discomfort.

[@josalltrading1048]

2 weeks post and i feel miserable. Cant sleep, always hungry, frustrated and tired😢😢😢

[@lorriestewart262]

3 weeks post, and I feel miserable.

[@iloveTRUMP]

How are all of y'all now???

[@jessicam.mieles3486]

There are so many things they don't tell you that will affect you mentally. It took about 6 weeks and out of nowhere I couldn't stop crying and feeling anxious of going back to work, feeling that I wasn't doing enough. You finally get told this is normal but you're never told that. So you ARE doing your best, you need to be kind to yourself (that can be super hard), it takes time even if you're feeling rushed. Do the exercises and if you want to sleep, welcome it. Lack of sleep adds to the depression as well. Best wishes and kindness to you.

[@PBC2520]

I am going through everything you have stated. One month out from a total knee and still in pain and waking up every 3 hours. Thank you.

[@user-oe5ko4ds7r]

Lord thank you for helping me wondering why am so tired

[@shanekelly3419]

me too .

[@dianemyer5372]

You are the only therapist who talks about what recovery is Really like after TKR. Thank you.

[@cindythomas4246]

Crying as I write this 2.5 weeks out from left knee arthroplasty. Crying because I thought it was just me feeling so tired, depressed, angry. Others around me who have had this surgery (husband, mom, several good friends) say they were up and around or going back to desk jobs in 2-3 weeks! This made me feel like a failure. I cannot thank you enough for THIS "8 reasons" video! Your encouragement, and that of my very young PT giver, has made me feel so much better about myself. I am gonna do me from here out and stop pushing myself to appease my ego (and well-meaning post surgical friends) so I can kick this depression, eat better, feel better. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

[@lizminor6703]

My feelings exactly so folks around makes u foll crappy if u are not running a race I'm selfish this time around great to know I'm not alone ❤

[@mikethomas4570]

4 weeks post, been struggling bad, just today started watching videos on this. Thanks for sharing it helped

[@Juezma52]

I’m twelve weeks out. Still tired and still not sleeping the whole night. This is my second TKR. I forgot how hard it was going to be since the first was over seven years ago, but I distinctly recall at six month out, I was great again. Take heart. It will get better.

[@patroberts5449]

7 weeks out, just starting to get better (notice I didn’t say GOOD) sleep, but it’s improving. Finally able to lay on my sides for an hour or so that helps relieve my back, but need to keep my legs up to reduce swelling….. Just using Advil and Tylenol and if I need a more solid sleep I’ll take a teaspoon of NyQuil. Oh and a 9th reason for feeling crappy, depressed etc is I just got a hospital bill I didn’t expect…. Fun never ends…….

[@kareyingalls7409]

This video helped me so much by explaining what is normal after surgery. I’m 5 weeks post op, I am a fit , strong 63 year old female but feel like I’m swimming upstream sometimes! I realize now I’m not doing anything wrong it’s just the situation I’m in!! Thank you so much.

[@zp8127]

My husband had a TKR on 11/7 they sent him home same day like 4 hrs after his surgery. Getting into the car for some strange reason his knee buckled and he heard 2 loud pops and he fell screaming with pain. The nurse was heading back when she heard it she came running to see what had happened. She looked at his knee and said oh, it must have just been a tight muscle and sent us on home. We wish we knew better and demanded to go back, but sadly took her word for it. Getting home while trying to go inside the house he literally just needed to pick his leg up one step and he couldn't and again with his walker fell hard. His leg bruised severely black. We went back to the doctor next day, they did an x ray and said he should be fine, but my husband felt something wasn't right as he wasn't able to lift his leg up like he did same day after surgery while still in the hospital. Fast forward almost 1 week after surgery his knee buckled while walking in the house and he fell hard and knee started to bleed through the sealed bandage. We called the doctor and went to the office. He was told he has a huge hematoma from falls and needs emergency surgery next day. During surgery they discovered he had ruptured his quadricep in 2 places and had to have that repaired. So basically when he was initially leaving the hospital and heard the 2 pops his Quad must have ruptured and that's when we should have went back but the nurse sent us on our way back home. Moral of the story, if something doesn't seem right leaving the hospital demand to go back and don't risk it because now what was supposed to be a 3 month recovery we are being told is 6 months to a year. He is in lots of pain, has to wear a leg brace for 2-4 weeks without bending his knee, has a bigger risk of not having normal ROM. But, we can't change what happened and are trying to be positive and just move forward. But we wish we had done more homework about risks and possibilities. The big question is what could have caused his Quad to rupture so easily after his surgery? The doctor seems to think it's because my husband had had a bad knee for many years and that muscle has been very weak to begin with so it just gave out. We think he should have never went home so soon, but who's to know if this wouldn't have happened regardless. We don't know, it's very frustrating, but pray this heals quickly and he can go back to walking normal again. If anyone has any advice or similar stories, suggestions it would be greatly appreciated. He goes in for his first PT appointment this Thursday and we are nervous. What are the changes of a Quad to rupture again? They said that if he does everything right, it's 5% and less so we pray it all goes well. Regarding energy and pain, this video is spot on. If it helps anyone, here are some of the things my husband has been doing to help regain his strength and heal and hope this helps someone else. Eats a green salad daily with a healthy protein. I made homemade bone broth from beef marrow bones and chicken feet and make soups out of this, and froze a lot of it and use it as I run out. I made kidney beans with beef and beef liver which helps increase iron and is full of vitamins for the blood. I give him a liquid iron supplement which is non constipation type. He also takes a good quality collagen powder. I have bought 100% carrot juice which is full of vitamins and also a green juice. You can make your own, but if no time, these work great too. His bruising has greatly improved and he will be 2 wks out since his 2nd surgery and can tell his energy levels have slowly been improving. A good diet is definitely a must to follow if you want to heal faster and most importantly lots of prayers! We have so many family, friends and people at Church praying for him which I wholeheartedly believe in the power of prayer and while all of this has been so frustrating, we know that God is in control and that with patience, time, and prayers Jesus will restore his knee functions! For anyone going through anything similar, I pray you will find this message helpful and pray for you to heal quickly. Do not give up 🙏🏻

[@barbigoschen8692]

Oh my.....are the words I kept saying while reading while tears are ready for your hubby. What a story! WOW! I'm sure Tony will tell you about the FB group "for KIND people"....if not, reach out to me or others who respond to you! My RTKR was in October & I'm finally feeling a bit better BUT still exhausted as Tony described. Where ever you live, God knows & LOVES you both the most!🙏 "Abba Father, You know this man and his wife. You know the troubles he has faced & still facing. I ask that You bring healing to him and Your PEACE to both of them. In Your Son's name, Jesus. AMEN & AMEN"

[@zp8127]

@@barbigoschen8692 Thank you so much! 🙏🏻 I really appreciate your kind uplifting words and prayers! Thank you for sharing your story too! I pray you have a quick recovery too! I will tell my husband to look for the FB group as I'm sure it would help him lift his spirits as its been a rough ride for sure! Thank you again, words of encouragement have been so helpful to us both right now! 💛🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@barbigoschen8692]

@@zp8127 hold on look up the correct name to look for. It is very private that only TKR people can share. You'll see you ask to be invited into the group. This journey IS a ROUGH road for all TKR people! I'll be back😊

[@davidlamborghini9108]

I’ve had a similar incident my tkr was two years ago and still my knee buckles I have to use a cane and a brace all the time I have fallen a few times due to the buckling and the dr has taken X rays and says everything is fine but yea it’s frustrating still with pain

[@zp8127]

@@barbigoschen8692 Thank you so much 🙏🏻

[@brandihorn7841]

I am 8 days out from TKR, and I feel like I’m already depressed. I am used to working 50-60 hours a week and going nonstop, so for me to be dependent on others to HELP me has gotten me truly emotional. I am so grateful I found your videos!! I have been a bit discouraged but I’m trying to keep an positive outlook. ❤

[@fancyfrancy2244]

May I ask how you worked all those hours with bad knees? Both mine are bad and I had to go part time! I do stand on my job the entire time being a hairstylist but I cannot imagine working like I used to. I’m super stiff after standing for a few minutes! I walk like Frankenstein and it’s embarrassing. I need surgery but I’m scared to death!

[@ernestopalestino6310]

“Dear Tony, I would like to express my gratitude for the amazing videos you create. Your videos are my favorite among all the TKR videos out there. I appreciate your straightforward and practical advice and explanations. I am currently on day 18 of my TKR recovery. I am 72 years old, 6.2, 180, and have always been an active person, participating in sports such as Track, Soccer, Tennis, and now, Pickleball. My recovery has been going well, except for the first eight days when my PT was hindered by the fact that the pain medication was not right. Once that was corrected, my recovery started to improve. I am now on my third week of PT and have achieved 95 degrees of flexion. However, I have been experiencing fatigue lately and was wondering why. This video is spot. Thank you so much for your help! You rock!!!”

[@lindawoolbright1960]

All so true!! I live in a neighborhood where if you throw a rock you’ll hit someone that’s had TKR. I trained for 6 months before surgery & expected a quick recovery. Experienced a tear in patella tendon during procedure that required bringing another surgeon in to perform graft repair from my hamstring. Came home in ankle to thigh knee immobilizer restricted to bed or sofa except for PT where I really couldn’t do anything. I’m now 6 MONTHS postop - still biweekly PT, still same pain as first couple days, still only 90 degrees, can’t drive, ride across backseat in car to PT, completely homebound. Diagnosed yesterday with nerve damage & looking at more surgery. I have top surgeon in my area, but that certainly doesn’t insure an easy recovery. This time last year I was running 5 miles 4 times a week. I look and act like a totally different person. THIS channel is the only one that brings me any hope or comfort that despite everything I might someday I get better. Thank you so much!!

[@angelarowson6328]

Hi from New Zealand …. I had a partial knee replacement 8 weeks ago and have felt really low … when I keep thinking I should be feeling better after the surgery…. Great to know it’s normal … Thank you 🙏🏼

[@kerinbunstock]

Thank you! I’m six weeks out and one days after PT (like today) I will still take a two or three hours nap. I’m glad to find this is common. Everything else is going well, but no energy.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Thanks for sharing.

[@lcpinco2783]

I’m six weeks out from surgery tomorrow. I so needed to hear this. This whole procedure was a huge challenge that I certainly didn’t anticipate. Thank you Tony. You’ve been my go to channel for the past 6 weeks.

[@barbigoschen8692]

I'm 6 almost 7 weeks for me! He has for me too! Even in the middle of the night his videos are there to help me, you, and everyone! What a KIND person he is!

[@totaltherapysolutions]

That's great! Thanks so much for the feedback.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Thanks so much Barbi! I wish the best for you.

[@sherrcon]

it's a killer but for some, it was a breeze...go figure...for me, it was tuff...

[@moonluna464]

At 29, I've had a ridiculous amount of diffrent kinds of surgeries. I have a sh*t ton on chronic illnesses. Now I will have two surgeries next month on my knee. My cartilage underneath my kneecap is 70% gone. So not looking forward to that.

[@coringtonbaldwin7629]

I slept on top of my Bed Sheets for 7 months from Surgery...( On my Back)...I didn't sleep on my side ( normal sleep position)...until 7 months position..After 4 months...my Appetite came back to normal..3 months I took pain medication 💊 at least 4 times a week...After that I only took the medicine during physical therapy...At the 6 months point...I completely got off of pain meds....I am currently at 9 months and I am walking normal pain free = I understand that my knee replacement will only achieve 80% efficiency.

[@gracebrown7186]

4 Weeks post TKR. You are the first clinician that gets it ! Thank you.

[@Gregory-sm9pf]

Thank you for pointing out that getting so tired after TKR surgery is normal, I got hit with it the second week I was home from my surgery, it was during the day I just started feeling totally exhausted, I had to go lay down on my bed, I stayed there til the next morning with just having a few bathroom trips in-between, I'm going on 10 weeks post op now and it's happened a few times during this period where I just get so freaking tired I have to lay down but I definitely can feel myself getting better with my knee, I can drive, go up and down the stairs and my knee is so much stronger than it's been in year's, thank you for this video and best wishes to everyone else that's going through this, stay strong!

[@buddhavb3616]

I've had both hips replaced. Had the left done in 2019 and I can attest to the feeling of being tired after the surgery. Just had right hip done 3months ago and learned to "go with" my energy level of the day. Give yourself permission to be tired and follow your physical therapy and surgical plan. I PROMISE IT GETS BETTER.

[@TYGZus777]

Thank you! Your words were such a comfort and so validating. Thank you for making sense and offering some explanations for my chronic tiredness! On top of the pain and exhaustion, I've been feeling so guilty for my lack of energy.

[@marywallace9878]

Thank you so much for this !! 6 weeks from surgery and was wondering where the energy went and also the part about depression, have felt that off and on, no one talks about this stuff at prefab.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Hi Mary, you are right. No one or not enough people are talking about this.

[@barbarasonnier9004]

Thank you for your posts! I am 12 weeks out from TKR - and had negative reactions to any form of prescription pain meds and over the counter that from 3rd day after surgery have been struggling and in pain. I am very senior citizen and have fantastic family support -.great Physical Therapists and a very skilled surgeon…. I know this will take time to heal…and I will be in a better place with my new knee. Peace

[@gloriaspanjers1901]

Thank you so much! I have rocked my PT. My PT team was encouraging. Great, extension but was so disappointed in lack of energy. 6 weeks out! Now very encouraged. Now I know this is normal, figured out why I am so exhausted and doing what I consider to be sooooo little. Thank you!

[@mindydavis9132]

Huge thanks Tony, you touched on EVERY aspect and detail …and most importantly, the total TRUTH. I am 6 weeks post PKR and my mental health was starting to suffer. Now I can rest assured for NOT being able to sleep well and feel I’m finally right where I need to be . I’ve just started to learn to trust this recovery /healing process … one day, and one step forward …I know I’ll get there 👣👣👣👣👣👣👣👣👣

[@ginny736]

Thank you so much. I needed this.

[@jaynegilman2811]

Thank you so much for the pep talk. I’m 3 & 1/2 weeks since TKR and have just been exhausted and mood swings like crazy. Glad to know it’s normal.

[@LahainaLady]

This is SO ON POINT! Thank you!!

[@berthapatterson3746]

Best information I’ve heard yet.

[@djinhoatghan6369]

Thank you Tony

[@sabarjemali6399]

Thank you for the explanation. I'm into the 4th week of a TKR worried why I'm constantly feeling tired and needing that afternoon naps. Your video helps. Thanks much 🌹 Malaysia

[@marytesta3003]

I think with "drive through" major surgery they downplay after surgery fatigue etc. I had a right TKR Wednesday 9/6/23 and all the literature said you will have "some" discomfort. I expected that but I had excruciating pain 48 hours later. Had the home PT not warned me I would have called an ambulance. I have a very high pain tolerance and this was so far past my threshold I was shaking. Pain meds did nothing. Pain is exhausting and maybe more discussion is needed so patients don’t feel weak and deflated failures. Great video addressing this issue!

[@lindaincolorado2646]

I agree. My pain was so bad that I couldn't walk to the bathroom after the third day. My husband had me sit on the roll later and pushed me to the bathroom and I called and asked for a wheelchair . This knee was so much more painful than my first, and they forgot to send my chart to physical therapy so I was floundering alone until 4 week recheck

[@kbbowman8654]

I posted earlier on another comment about medical staff and doctors and nurses being accountable to educating a patient about possible serious issues following surgery… Especially pain and should help you until you find the right formula to get behind the pain… It just seems they want to wash their hands of the job once the knee replacement is inand just let the chips fall where they may… It’s so wrong!

[@marytesta3003]

@kbbowman8654 So, I had surgery on Sept. 6th and just had my 6 month follow-up. Although the post-op pain was way more than I anticipated(the 1st week particularly), the results are excellent. My left knee is heading down that same path as the right and told the surgeon I wasn't sure if I could endure the 1st week again with stairs, etc. Day 3,4,5 were the worst pain I ever experienced. He said when that time comes down the road, we'll talk about options, but for now, focus on continuing to do all of the good things I'm doing. I guess everyone has a different pain tolerance. Mine is very high, but I almost lost it those few days. If I had not been warned by the home PT, I seriously would have called an ambulance. But the end result is excellent, but I remember that pain like it was yesterday. Other people allegedly have minimal pain. I will say my pre-op pain was very bad. I couldn't walk.

[@patricialarsen6460]

Spot on. All of it.

[@vanessaparsley3545]

Great video answer lots of my questions

[@kathyclark3168]

Tony, many thanks; your videos help me and give hope I'll get better. I haven't started PT but I guess at some point I'll do that. Look forward to more of your videos 😊

[@markmitchell4451]

So I’m 2.5 weeks post rtkr…. I had a really good first post op surgeon check up…. Incision , rom and overall state he was happy with…. I have to remind myself how long it’s really been versus how long it FEELS it’s been!…. Patience and persistence is all we can do…. We’re gonna be all right! Keep up the great work !🙌💪🙌

[@catemoon]

Spot on.

[@lynmoon1249]

Thank you so much. I really needed to hear this today.

[@kymberlystevens3380]

Thank you for this video. I’m 8 weeks recovery tomorrow after a TKR. I went back to my teaching job last week and let’s just say I’m still so exhausted. I’ve still having a lot of pain in muscles around knee and my piriformis, so this adds to my exhaustion. .

[@chetboisen1187]

Fantastic content Tony. I had LTKR on 26 SEP, RTKR on 10 NOV. The items you listed are right on point. Your channel and commitment to helping all of us is Greatly appreciated!

[@ku4nz]

I needed this video. So helpful to me, Thank you.

[@debbieheim3694]

Thank you!!!🫣🫣

[@jbrown2905]

This gentleman is the best. I’m into recuperating from my 2nd TKR over a three month time frame. All is going well( again). Every time I raise a question or frustration with my wife this gentleman’s site rolls up with an explanation of my issues. 🤗🤗

[@darlenericotta7550]

Thanks so much Tony, I had surgery over a year ago but there are times other body parts ache, thanks for all your great videos and Total knee web site! It helps so much!

[@richardcadoret6956]

Thanks so much for your info and insights!!! They're helping me recover with a more informed approach to the depression and fatigue that a go go go type guy like me found troubling. Cheers!

[@kathrynletchford5114]

Thank you. I feel that you are the only person that understands what I have just been through. The fatigue was incredible. I could barely cope with general household duties, and doing exercises. I feel that on one else around me understands.

[@colleenheither9532]

Really good info. Helped me know why I felt so crappy 😃 better after this

[@winonalewis9818]

This has been one of the best articles. It helped me so much! Thank you!❤

[@phyllismorgan355]

I could not have gone through both replacements this year without Tony

[@kimdarby6994]

Same here. I’ve learned more and taken great comfort in having him address the myriad issues I’ve had with my knee replacements. Recovery can be very depressing until you hear him discuss the very thing that was getting you down.

[@jangriffin-fi1yx]

Thank you Tony for always giving good advice very helpful & encouraging not to give up.

[@paulnavara7127]

Thank you Tony for all your videos on knee replacement. They have really helped me get through the process of having both knees done. Of all the videos I think this is THE MOST IMPORTANT one and watching it should be highly encouraged by knee replacement surgeons for the benefit of their patients. This is a great resource!

[@craigfurlong1840]

It's reassuring to see this. 6 weeks from my TKR. Scar healing well, good range of motion, my PT is happy, but soooo tired. Am back at my desk working from home and getting out for a walk each day. Mood is not great, tho, but I know it's not just me!! Bless everyone out there who is recovering x

[@ap1ml]

Thank you for this. Despite my daily improvements with my knee postop I have been feeling overly tired.

[@kittygailey5028]

Thank you for this very humanizing, compassionate video. Especially these days with the decline in personalized care and staffing shortages,as a patient, it’s easy to fall between the cracks (TKR as outpatient procedure, done and home in six hours.) Your advice is the best, most reassuring I have heard. Grateful.

[@pattiebrewer5192]

I enjoy crafting. And I’m still so tired. And I’m 10 weeks out. Still doing PT. I can get it over on the bike. I stopped meds after the first 3 weeks. Got so sick. You have been so helpful. Thank you so very much

[@mightyxee3716]

Immensely helpful I’m so grateful to you. I was really feeling self condemnatory because I can’t cope with hardly anything right now - and so, I feel very fortunate to have landed on this video this morning.❤❤❤❤❤

[@juliedavison-white1496]

Spot on everything said i am experiencing. Thank you i thought i was alone

[@lindalambert6554]

I could relate to every word, 10 days in. Thanks for sharing the information. I know more about what to expect going forward.

[@user-xk4uu8ub5f]

It had been awhile since my first knee and hip replacements, so thank you for the reminder! Ism always telling my kids to have patience, now they are reminding me of all the points you touched on, which I also know! Outpatient therapy starts today, let the games begin!

[@77misslinlane]

Tony - how reassuring and timely this information is. You have summarised and validated my three month journey to date. The FB group has raised many of these issues. It’s good to know the reality of my current new normal. Those people who have either been through the operation or cared for someone get the journey! ❤

[@sue-annthandy5387]

Hell yes what a journey ( never again)

[@DeniseRebrovich]

Thank you so much for this!!!

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Glad it was helpful.

[@Diana-007]

Thank you for your knowledge and compassion no one really talks to you about the “true journey” when you book for surgery, friends try to reassure you about people they have known who have sailed through the procedure and are perfectly fit now, I’d love to meet these super heroes 😁, the stories are shared to encourage and reduce fear but for me they actually do the opposite when your postoperative! I am 5 days post TKR surgery here in the UK I find your videos invaluable and the comments shared by your followers very helpful, thank you again. 🥰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧

[@Eric-kv1ip]

Excellent presentation. Gets right to the point. Clear and concise without repeating himself. If only others on any subject would follow this guy's template.

[@stephaniemears9973]

Such a reassuring video! Thank you SO much Tony!

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Glad it was helpful!

[@shanekelly3419]

spot on truth.

[@barbigoschen8692]

Thank you Tony! So true! It sounds like me!

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Very common.

[@cecilewalker6610]

Thank you very much for this information. At 6 weeks post TKR I feel so very tired & ‘down’. Thank you for your encouragement & affirmation!

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Take your time Cecile, give yourself the patience you would give anyone else.

[@thejuniebugs]

Thank you. After one month, and doing well, I had a meltdown yesterday. I appreciate this video so much.

[@user-xm1wu9bw1v]

Week two these are the best videos i have watched

[@jackysmith1763]

I am in England and have found your videos so reassuring.Thank you so much.

[@kross1261]

4 1/2 weeks out. I’m 58 years old played a lot of sports and had a lot of injuries which was the reason my knee went so early I thought no big deal for a tkr I’m tough. Nope it’s one hard sob. Sleep is tough I’m a side sleeper so I bought special pillows you name it. I’ve learned to just sleep on my back. This ordeal has caused me to experience some depression and anger because I’m not getting better quicker. My pt is acting like I’m doing great 125 degrees of motion but my knee feels so tight and weak. I guess for a select few this surgery is easy. Not me. If I ever get my other knee done I think I might go to a specialist or maybe even Mayo.

[@brigittewangberg9223]

Im 4 weeks out from tkr and after watching your videos, I changed my mindset. I felt more motivated, hopeful and my pain has decreased a bit. Sleeping still issue and I live alone so nights are a bit unsettling still...I decided to stop ocycodone yesterday and the pain is less (may just be that 4 weeks out.) Additionally, I slept 4 hours straight last night plus an additional 2 hours straight...Im super fatigued right now but my mind feels more clear and the sadness has left. Thank you so much for all you do for us!

[@Elle-kr8od]

What a reassuring video! Thank you.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

You are so welcome!

[@coleenbecknell6501]

I am so thankful I found your video. I had my left tkr 3 yrs ago. I don't remember that the pain and everything was so bad, but my partner, Bob, remembers it differently! I went back to work 4 weeks later. I had my right tkr Dec 26, 2023. It's been hell. My nerves were damaged, and I have "drop foot". It hasn't come back as of today, 4/10/24. I was so depressed, and didnt realize I was depressed. PT is slow because of my. I havent been able to go back to work because my job is very physical. So watching your video helped me emotionally very much. Thank you. God Bless

[@GIJOE64]

Thanks for the video. I’m 7 week’s post TKS and not able to get more than 2-3 hours of sleep at night due to the sensitivity of my knee and finding a comfortable position. My range of motion is great 108 degrees as of last week’s PT. I’m walking without aid of a walker and crutch, driving (standard car) and looking forward to getting back to normal mobility and strength. Appreciate knowing that others are having the same experiences post surgery.

[@toryberch]

Hi, I have been researching TKR for awhile now and apparently the lack of sleep is normal for the first couple months. Talking With Docs channel here on KZbin is also another great source. They are Orthopedic Surgeon's with a very caring and sense of humor personality.

[@kellytownsend8116]

I got a sleeve to wear on my knee that gets rid of hypersensitivity at night. I got mine on Amazon for $7.99 for a set of 2

[@theajayieffect]

​@kellytownsend8116 what's the name of it?

[@user-pp3qn6eq7h]

So glad I found this video. I’m almost 2weeks out from tkr and experiencing all that you described. Thank you for the permission to feel that I am going to get through this and I am not weak or a sissy. I walked to the mailbox yesterday and felt so good about myself. Then a friend said” your still using your walker.? I really wanted to cry.

[@fancyfrancy2244]

I think that’s phenomenal to be able to walk outside at all, two weeks out from surgery? Why would anyone expect anything less? I don’t think a lot of people even know what a TKR is!! Some of my in laws thought it was like arthroscopic surgery! When I explained what is done and sent one an actual picture of the surgery they were aghast! Don’t let peoples ignorance get you down!!!

[@mossomosso5991]

Thank you for this video ♥️ I had my Knee Replacement surgery on my left Knee April 5, 2023 and I just had my Right Knee done on April 12th 2024. My sleeping is horrible, I take cat naps throughout the day and stay up from 8:00 pm until 4:00am I know things will get better it’s hard on you mentally.

[@margaretchapman6079]

Thank you for this info....you are absolutely right. I had a TKR 6 years ago....not a nice op, but its worth it to have a better knee. The knee replacement is more painful than a hip replacement. I had a total right hip replacement 24 years ago not as painful as the knee op. I had a brilliant surgeon who did my hip & knee.....my hip was ready to collapse and he gave me a new lease of life. The pain does not last forever but the end result is worth it. Xx

[@vivienneblack858]

Thank you this was very valuable information. I’m 3 weeks out from my tkr . Thanks Australia 🇦🇺 😊

[@daynacjones]

I’m 4 weeks out of knee replacement and I get so tired that doing tiny things I used to do effortlessly just wipes me out. I’m glad to know that it helped to hear that this is normal

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Very common. It always gets better.

[@kathleendangelo1610]

Thank you

[@totaltherapysolutions]

You're welcome

[@madamecampsalot6384]

I had both knees done, 4 months apart. It's been 11 months and although I'm taking iron supplements my levels are still low. Glad my doctor thought to check and track it.

[@hilaryhoye8087]

This post is so helpful. Thank you. 🙏 My tiredness after partial knee replacement kicked in after about 2 weeks. I know it takes weeks to get anaesthetic out of your body but I've had surgery before. I thought about this and realised what huge demands I was making on my body, physically, mentally and emotionally. And on top of this of course I wasn't sleeping well - just getting comfortable in bed was and still is an issue. I knew my nutrition was good but my exercises were exhausting me. I started going back to bed in the day and having a nap....... and I started taking an Ashwaghanda supplement. This has made all the difference.

[@juanitahallett1966]

Thank you for sharing this! It explains so much! And it’s nice to hear rest is the answer! Thank YOU!

[@ThePurpleCow]

I'm really glad I found this video, I'm two weeks post op and I'm still exhausted. I''ve been going to bed before 10:00 p.m. - a couple of hours earlier than usual.

[@suesymons4646]

Nearly 6mths after opp and i must say, energy levels are finally back. At the 4 mth timeline I had a breakthrough. Pain lessened. Still a way off of normal but am finally breathing again and getting back to normal.

[@edwinlaverty4020]

I'm at 5 months. This was brutal. I am just starting a breakthrough. Your post is encouraging.

[@elizabeththompson1720]

Thank you Tony, I live in the UK and today I am 7 weeks after TKR I have been following your videos since my operation and find your advice so reassuring. I’ve not slept through the night for 7 weeks due to pain and sensitivity but at last some of the sensitivity has eased and I can bear the bedcovers on my knee. The main issues I have now are at the back of the knee and thigh, I think from what you say it must be the hamstrings which are tight, my physiotherapist says it is because they had shortened prior to surgery. I’ll continue with the exercises you recommend. Thank you again. .

[@Diana-007]

Your post is very reassuring in a way 😔 I’m sorry you’ve had a hard time, I’m 2weeks post TKR also from the UK the knee pain is bad but the back of thigh and knee ( mine goes down the total side of my knee) pain is worse it’s like a constant cramp particularly after exercising but not always. I did have hamstring discomfort a few months before surgery but not like this - can I ask has your settled down? I also find those static leg rises so painful, don’t think my quads have read the instructions yet 😂 I can barely lift my leg off the bed at present. I wish I had found Tony pre- surgery, my physio journey has been pretty naff really compared to all the input my American cousins seem to be provided with. I’m heading for some private sessions shortly on top of the private surgery - waited almost 2years on the NHS list and couldn’t suffer any longer. Sad I’m an NHS employee.

[@poochboof1835]

I agree/like all that you have said here. I’m at 6 weeks after TNR. I want everything to go faster, but I live alone and it’s all so hard. My doctor is not helpful which is adding to my anxiety and stress. I’ve gone backwards recently because of request for more range of motion. It now hurts more and that has to be addressed. Thank you.

[@danvining2186]

#9, chronic inflammation causes increased IL6 which increases hepcidin closing ferroportin which blocks iron from diet and iron from recycling senescent red blood cells from returning to the blood stream. Ferritin levels increase while serum iron decreases which can eventually lead to anemia of chronic disease or anemia of inflammation which sounds better.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Wow! Thanks for sharing.

[@edwinlaverty4020]

I'm 5 months out and wish I had seen this video months ago. At 14weeks was 104 flexion and 23 extension. Got a new P.T. at that point. Now 121 flex and 5 ext. This new P.T. I pay cash and his treatment sometimes last 2 hours. Did High voltage stimulation. Finally going up and down stairs. This surgery is BRUTAL and so many make like it's no big deal. That is not right.

[@yf4012]

I’m six weeks out and everything said on this video was absolutely spot on. Watch out for constipation from opioids and don’t go off your meds abruptly like I did thinking it would fix the problem. I have just had a week from hell from the worst constipation in my life then on top of that withdrawal symptoms from going cold turkey - big mistake! Opioids need to be tapered/reduced slowly over time and it can take weeks/months.

[@lindaincolorado2646]

Thank you so much for this video and I will look for your others. I had my left knee replaced 3 years ago and I didn't remember everything I had to go through for that! I'm 4 weeks out from my right knee tkr, and straightening the knee is just about killing me. But I have to say I am able to walk and I have more energy and I see progress almost every day. The first two and a half weeks were horrendous, but I just want to tell everyone that it gets better and make sure you take the pain meds as ordered so you can exercise and rest, or ask for different pain meds if they're not agreeing with you. Best wishes to all!

[@lindaellis9349]

Oh so helpful! 15 days after right TKR, knee is doing great, healing nicely, not too much pain but I feel nauseous, can't get comfortable in bed, no sleep..have I overdone it or am I stressed on how I'm going to cope?

[@ellenegan8609]

Tony, thank you for this video; I'm almost 6weeks TKR and I never thought about the mood swings and depression I've had related the the knee. I did experience this and it wasn't very nice. Thanks to you, I now understand what the contributing factor are. You saved me!

[@vialycopoosamy2266]

Thank you Tony I am in my 4th week and could not understand that I am feeling tired and depressed and every one telling me to pull myself together.....thanks now I know it's normal thank you to know I am not alone in this

[@wandataylor1019]

I'm 8 weeks out from TKR I have no appetite, very fatigue, can't sleep and have lost about 14lbs. Is there anyone else like that. Thanks in advance.

[@zebaasif1157]

Hi Tony I am from India your videos help me a lot I had TKR on 14 September but I still have thigh muscle pain and fatigue is that ok

[@laramauss1948]

100% correct! Good points! I didn’t see this full picture! 3-4 Th week: depression sets in. Interest of third parties drops. Problems are solved, i can focus on myself and see only little progress. I don’t know, what I should have accomplished by now, noone tells me if i do well or not. Everybody says: „Oh, Everybody is different“. Um, yeah, but there must be an average.

[@claudiawood9020]

Nearly 6 weeks and I am glad I found this video. I thought there was something wrong with me. 😢 i do water arobics and walk with the dog only 200 m then I feel so exhausted 😩 Thank you for this video.

[@lindahughes5781]

You are so right. PT for me has been so painful. I'm one of those people that had a TKR and the swelling was major. Much more than normal. So, I did not reach the range of motion goals . My surgeon did an MUA, and that brought me right back to pain and lots of swelling. PT Bootcamp was absolute heck! 12 days straight except for Sat. and Sun. It's 3 weeks later, and I'm at a painful 110 and not quite straight, but my insurance will not approve any more sessions. My surgeon acts like I've failed to make the most of his talent and is no support. If he says three words, tbats a lot. After two weeks the 3 words were, this is terrible , awful, and not good. Way to give a pep talk. I think going to the practices PT hasn't done me any favors either. Thanks for the video. I'll keep up the excersizes at home. Going back and forth is exhausting too.😂

[@manjulagurumurthy6324]

I am Manjula,from India.Your answers have addressed so many of my problems and I feel reassured.I am 71,diabetic,having undergone TKR 3 months ago ,on my left leg.I am able to walk for 20 mins.at the most, with a moderate pace.Is it O K.Doc.?The slight winter conditions here,make the folding of knees,a little difficult? MAY I know if it is normal?I still keep doing exercises for the knee.

[@debbieheim3694]

Thank you thank you thank you! I’m not lazy or crazy!👏👏👏💜

[@lindamadden7264]

No, you are not! Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

[@bethwillard7795]

Blessings blessings always

[@annaathome2995]

I am 3 wks post op L TKA and had Heart attack ,the next day I has Angioplasty with Stent in LAD .I am always wiped out My Rt TKA was 2 years ago and I was stronger quicker . NO HEART ATTACK with the Right one . I am exercising, going to PT twice a week . I am not as motivated to exercise 3-4 x day because I feel so exhausted. Sleeping 3-4 H at night it’s a miracle if I take some Tylenol PM . My knee flexion is only 100 degree, but I am working on it BREG Ice machine is a life saver. Thanks for shedding some light on why we are so pooped out

[@karengodden3820]

Have had 1 total hip replacement and 2 total knee replacements all in a 7 month span.

[@annaathome2995]

@@karengodden3820 You are a Champ ! I had Bilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty,but now I also have bilateral. Knee arthroplasty . God save me from any ankles problems So let us all continue to exercise so we continue to exercise & regain our mobility with less pain in th3 future

[@RamziahMohdNoor]

Hi Tony its me again done my left knee 2 yrs ago ,today my 6th day after right knee TKR.Using robotic