How long does the pain last after a knee replacement?

[@0616diane]

I am 10 days out having total knee replacement and if my other knee gets so bad that it has to be done, i will get me a wheelchair. I have never been in so much pain and felt so useless in my life. Maybe on down the road i may feel better about it being fixed,but my feelings now is i will never do this again.

[@hailiejade349]

How are you feeling now?

[@mikeshank3879]

I am on day 7....right knee was done over 3 years ago. I had no choice but to get it done. I have been moaning and crying out in severe pain so much that my 7 year old Grandson, who lives next door, won't come over anymore because he can't stand to see his Papa crying due to the pain......it is overwhelming

[@taminunley7923]

I will NEVER do it again, I'm 4 months out and still suffer, still not walking as before, still hard to get in and out of vehicle. I did 3 months physical therapy and got a recumbant bike for home which I ride 20 min minimum 2/3 days a week. I walk my German shepherd 6/7 times a day. I had lumbar spinal fusion in 2010 and never had this much pain or mobility issues.

[@dmevilebeard3235]

I’m 2 weeks out from my replacement and I cannot agree more. Most pain ever coupled with the mental struggle. 1 star. This sucks… BUT, I had no choice.

[@susanrobinson408]

I agree! This has been grueling. I am 6 weeks out.

[@billstrube3425]

I was good after five weeks. I'm now five months post op, and l never felt better. I have to add that l an seventy years old, and had both knees replaced at the same time. Good luck to all of you out there.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Thanks for the comment and advice.

[@borbelisciousrdchanel8625]

I have a Partial knee replacement & 7 weeks post-op. I’m able to walk without any assistive device but my incision site is tender & I still have pain depending my activities for that day especially after Therapy & swimming or long walk. This is the most traumatizing Surgery given I had major 3 abdominal & hand surgeries. But it’s all Worthy. 🙏

[@kmm291]

I’m on week 5 now and I’m 74. I am glad I did this despite the pain. At let’s up as you go onward.

[@beckygibson6843]

I can not imagine having both knees done at the same time!

[@sandimoo]

I had both knees done 4 weeks ago tomorrow. I also have MS which has flared up, causing clamping and clawing in my legs and feet. I’m doing ok with my movement and I’m walking well, but it is still SO painful, particularly if I twist the joint. Trying to stay positive, it helps seeing how everyone else is doing.

[@marytesta3003]

Thank you. I thought I was a wimp. I'm just 8 weeks post-op and took a gentle water exercise class. The next night, my knee hurt so bad I got up atv3am and took a pain pill. It subsided after a day but I'm glad to know it takes a bit. I hadn't needed any pain reducing meds in weeks so wasn't expecting this. I'm at 125 degrees of flexion.

[@GIJOE64]

I’m 9 weeks post TKR. My pain level is about a 5, but I try and do a little more daily to stretch, exercise and move to get my range of motion back. Keep a positive attitude and patience are key to letting your body heal and return to health. Thanks Tony for your videos that address many questions about the recovery process.

[@darthdennis6681]

7 months post-op and still inventing new curse words!!!

[@patroberts5449]

True! Got to keep your sense of humor! Thank God they don’t cut through that during the surgery😝 Are your new cuss words in alphabetical order like mine? I’m up to the letter T😂

[@marjoriecadanilla7546]

@@patroberts5449😂😂😂similar situation,never again will I have a TKR surgery.

[@ImThePronounPolice]

@@marjoriecadanilla7546 i’m five months postop on my second knee replacement did the other leg two years ago. It really sucks but it’s worth it in the long run. My other leg is fine and this one is almost healed. Just a little trouble walking downstairs, but I know that goes away. Thigh high compression stockings, work wonders!

[@sherrcon]

thanks for telling me the truth instead of saying "it will go away within 3 to 4 months...

[@Sandyman406]

Oh my goodness! I’m in the south of the UK, it’s Sunday morning and my first right TKR was carried out successfully on Thursday. The surgeon and anaesthetist were amazing. I was due to be in hospital for 2 nights and go home yesterday. Unfortunately I nearly fell during the coming down the stairs test. I was in so much pain afterwards that the physio wouldn’t let me have a second attempt so I will try again today. I want to be positive and get home to start the full recovery process. I know it’s a long journey. Hate to be negative, but the pain is brutal. Right now I’ve just been woken up by it. Not just the knee area, but the entire length of my right thigh and, as a male, can I say the pain is also in my right ‘groin’ if you know what I mean. God bless all of you that have been through this! I will prevail! A positive mental attitude, I’m sure, will get us all through.

[@rachie_sherlock]

❤❤ 7days I am in

[@user-si5lo3ew1z]

My knee replacement is 2 weeks old. Yes, there is pain. Wish I had opted for Norco the first night. That was bad. Still feeling pain with the physical therapy but not unbearable. Glad I did it. Healing is ongoing.

[@GRC205]

I was up & walking one week after total knee replacement...with very little surgical pain..it was just the stiffness I felt. The question of pain is relative. Several friends told me it would be painful, I had robotic surgery at HSS/West Palm Beach..and suffered very little. It is now 5 months later, I swim play golf, and walk easily.

[@BeatriceSmith-qk1ip]

Really

[@gregpeterburs4155]

My knees were so bad before surgery that it only took about 6 weeks to feel less pain post surgery , much , much better 👌👍

[@totaltherapysolutions]

That is amazing! Thanks for sharing.

[@stacyA65]

Finally an honest answer.Thank you!

[@alises.5986]

Thanks, Tony. I really needed to hear that today. I am now 4 weeks pos-op from my second total knee, and just eager to start building strength. Being careful for now, and working with my good PT.

[@CJada304]

I am 6 weeks post op from a bilateral TKR. The pain that I had from the surgery was nowhere near as bad as the pain that I had for years before the surgery. Now, it’s not pain so much as getting used to the prosthetic in both knees, and that gets better each day. I even have full ROM per my physical therapist. I still have stiffness, but stretching helps a lot with that.

[@TheMovementSystem]

Great video! Looks like your quality keeps getting better over time.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Our channels are creeping along. Neck and neck. Let's get to 10K then 100K sooner rather than later.

[@richardgurtner7955]

25 weeks on the left knee no pain can go all day. My right knee is 15 weeks. My right leg and knee after about 3500 steps and that is it. have to ice no more that is it my leg swells up. Thanks for the video it really helps. Because each knee is different, and we need reassurance this is a hard thing. to go through both legs were bowed., and know they are straight. Way worse than hip replacement. Thank You Sir******

[@totaltherapysolutions]

You are right. Each knee is different. Thanks for the comment. I wish you the best.

[@edwinedwards6796]

When he said at the very end,..that it could be as much as a year with pain and swelling! That resonated with me. After 14 mos. I have no more swelling. But still have discomfort with knee bending. The maximum inflection compared to the other knee is about one inch and 1/2 difference. All this difficulty from a 25 min scope!

[@inthecrosshairs4480]

Scopes are what ended me. DO NOT CONTINUE WITH SCOPES ! PLEASE!

[@robertburwood7299]

6 months post op and I have no pain and my leg is stronger than it has been for years I am lovin it. First 2 weeks were very tough but give it time and keep doing the rehab and you will be amazed.

[@BeatriceSmith-qk1ip]

👍

[@SusanWiggins-x2f]

I am one week out today from my second TKR. I had no choice but tondo the second one. I gritted my teeth so bad in the last couple of days that I lost one filling and broke another tooth. A TKR is the most painful thing I’ve ever experienced. I was scared the first time. The second time is was terrified because I knew what to expect 😞

[@paulmimms9400]

I was good after 2 weeks had a great Dr

[@jeldkl]

5 months and still dealing with some pain, stiffness and swelling. Had MUA last week and was pain free for a week but swelling and stiff again. 20 weeks of physical therapy and 6 more ordered. So frustrating, I want to get on with my life. Not an athlete, but active 71 year old.

[@bt9124]

Poor luv

[@totaltherapysolutions]

What was your range initially after the MUA and what is it now? Thanks for posting.

[@deepanaik8112]

What is MUA?

[@stephaniec.2520]

i am trying to learn from as many videos as possible prior to TKR surgery and find more empowered after each video. Thank you for this. Sorry if name icon comes up 2x. Some sort of computer glitch we don't know how to fix.

[@johnfraser8116]

Thanks. I'm six weeks out and was wondering about the little bit of pain that's still there. I'm basically OK and mobile. Cheers!

[@vickicornerstone3020]

Thanks so much 6 weeks out still having pain but tolerable

[@viccigoddard6981]

I'm 18 days after surgery...I guess I thought I would bounce back fast...so I will just be patient..

[@jimkuhn3500]

Thanks / great video / I am 5 weeks and have great return of motion. Pain at about 4-5... But have a lot of popping and some crunching feeling / my PT TELLS this will go away ??? See my surgeon in 2 weeks...time will tell

[@hailiejade349]

How are you now?

[@lindajones8594]

Thanks Tony

[@denisehutchins6799]

After reading some of the comments I must say I didn't have any serious pain after my TKR. Before surgery my orthopedic doctor suggested I take water therapy to strengthen my quad muscles and I can honestly say my surgery went well and I didn't suffer with a lot of pain afterwards

[@kathyclark3168]

Boy, you hit the nail on the head! And whoever said using a walker doesn't give you exercise, is very wrong 😂😂

[@BeatriceSmith-qk1ip]

Yes they was in I'm 45 of age

[@heatherjowett5382]

Tx for the info I gotta say I wasn’t prepared for the level of pain I had. It’s a little better 2 weeks into it I’m glad I had the double there’s no way I’d go back again.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Thanks for subscribing and sharing your experience. I am glad it is getting better. You should continue to get better into the 6 and 12 week marks.

[@heatherjowett5382]

@@totaltherapysolutions thanks your vids r helpful good to know I’m normal

[@cordelia7313]

I completely understand your feelings. I wasn’t prepared for the pain I had the first 3 days but there after wasn’t so bad. I was prepared for PT to be horribly painful and was so thankful that for me it wasn’t . Some of the stretching actually felt good.!!!! I had one knee done 16 week’s ago. I am loving my new knee!! I did have a fall two weeks ago (just because I am a klutz!!😆) and that has made my swelling worse but getting better. I am actually looking forward to the beginning of next year to have the other done!!!! Your doing Great!!!! Keep on working those muscles !!!!😊

[@cordelia7313]

@@totaltherapysolutions I love my new knee and it is better and better every week!!!!! 16 weeks post op!!!

[@heatherjowett5382]

@@cordelia7313 thank you for the positive comments v appreciated. Still in quite a bit of pain but it is getting better so heading in right direction. I do think I’m going to need a couple more weeks off work I tried sitting at a desk n was in pain after an hr.

[@shirleyjeremiah5572]

I'm into my second week post op and also my second knee replacement, my first week was agony but it gets better each day. Looking forward to walk freely again.

[@SN-hp2dz]

Today is about 6 weeks after my both knees replacement After 7 days was able to walk with assistance After 2 weeks without assistance Still pain and soiling but reduce to minimum When u sit on chair move your legs I.e bend to the extend possible slowly and gradually My knee bend is 125

[@gsmith5523]

My knee replacement is best thing I have ever done.one month and very little pain.

[@stacyA65]

I cannot wait until I'm where you're at. I just had my total knee surgery a week ago. I start physical therapy in 2 days. And I'm still having a lot of pain.it was a leg I had a spiral fracture in 4 years ago. So 3 months prior to the total knee surgery a titanium rod had to be removed.that was brutal. But I had no choice. it was bone on bone. It had gotten so bad it looked deformed. But it's nice and straight now. This leg has given me such a hard time for a year now. And I'm only in my 50s. I'm really hoping the surgery will fix it. Sleepless in Oklahoma.😂 I wish you all the best 💖🙏🏻 many blessings to you!

[@debbierennox931]

I hope I am like you go in on Wednesday 11th sept

[@vickiyounkin1057]

Thanks so much for the video I’m at 2 weeks still stiff and sore

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Sounds very normal! Wishing you the best.

[@agates9383]

I'm at week 6 after a tkr and the pain is gone, stopped all pain meds at end of week 5, I hit PT hard starting at week 2 for 8 days straight then did a 2 week trip to Europe - wasnt easy but doable, I would say i'm at 80-85% I have about 125 degrees flex and am almost walking totally normal. Still have that tight band feeling around the kneecap and still doing PT 2x weekly now. My advice, start PT as soon as you can and dont skimp on the pain meds early on, I was down to 1-2 pills a day after 4 wks but did use them all through the trip. 58 yrs old.

[@annjannace6957]

thx Tony' you are a blessing, watching these video's is like sharing with someone who has had a TKR every quesrion I'm thinking about is right their!! so glad your their, with much appreciation Thank's again....XOX

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Thanks so much Ann! If you think of questions I haven't answered please post them in the comments.

[@jomc20]

I would like to know if it is normal for my knee to still feel warm, swollen and painful after more than 3 weeks since surgery? A different video by a surgeon says that this could be a sign of low grade infection. My ankle is also very painful and stops me from sleeping. Should I see a doctor?

[@rickycurry574]

Thank you.

[@sparkliesparkle4626]

I am 5 weeks post-op today, and was wondering when the heck this pain would stop! This video popped up (have to love target marketing), and I am grateful 🙏 Sounds like I am still within the "pain zone".

[@knuckle47]

Well, I am at 7 weeks on Monday and it appears I am right on time with your schedule… I am not happy with any of this I’m 70 and did not need to dedicate this much time to this. I would have happily lived with a bottle of Tylenol here and there on bad days…much appreciated for your details

[@Snoogable]

I'm in my 70s and not overweight. I only needed pain meds for almost the first 3 weeks and only used extra strength Tylenol PM at night after that. I iced almost continuously with ice therapy machine the first 3 weeks and several times daily after that. Also I kept my *straight leg* elevated at all times (toes above my head). My swelling went down pretty fast. If you're complaining of pain, might you need to contact your doctors office to work on pain management? You need to take pain meds BEFORE the pain kicks in.

[@CharlesOhligschlager]

Faithfully did my post surgery exercises and was back to work 3 1/2 weeks later on both knees. I drive a bus as well.

[@janiceritchot9505]

Well it’s good to get some idea of the pain that will be happening . I am now at 5 weeks since my operation and it’s better but it still hurts because you must be persistent with exercises . I do feel better though ! Carry on it will get better .❤👍🙏✝😊

[@marian.jablonski54]

My knee replacement will be three weeks tomorrow. I am still in constant pain. I stopped taking narcotic pain meds a week ago expecting it to subside, but so far that hasn't happened. I'm getting frustrated. Unable to sleep. The whole point of this surgery was to reduce pain and right now the pain is hundreds of times worse. I'm regretting ever doing this. Maybe I'll get over the hump soon and feel differently. I hope so

[@garioma1344]

I didn't turn the corner until I was 5 weeks out. But PT is like the daily bread of rehab, a little every day. I'm 7 mos post op TKR & doing well. I still have days that my knee feels stiff but not painful. I get on my peddler, as per Tony's recommended tool & it loosens the knee. Good luck with your healing, it will come. 👍

[@ruthiekarlinsky2973]

No! Don't regret!! It will get better!! I was at three weeks two weeks ago and was saying the same thing, but two weeks down the road I'm feeling a lot better. Still not anywhere near pain free but can see the light approaching the end of the tunnel. We're going to hang in there! No giving up now!

[@phylmar1]

Hang in I had my right knee done one year ago. I still have stiffness especially in the morning but better than it was I need my left knee done and possibly a hip replacement. I will be putting that off.

[@toryberch]

Marian, I'd love to hear an update from you. Did you ever get over that hump?

[@marian.jablonski54]

@@toryberch Yes I did - about two months out everything fell into place. Two years later now and I am very glad I had it done. Four months ago I had a shoulder replacement and went through the same thing. But it really has resolved my arthritis pain, so well worth it in the long run.

[@miltlarson]

My tkr must be unusual.had hardly any pain after 2nd day.went home the same day as surgery after walking and doing stairs at hospital. I was driving myself in less than 2 weeks.what little pain i had Tylenol took care of it.i feel really blessed after reading some of these replies

[@ruthirwin8222]

Im 5 weeks post op bilateral total knee replacements and this is great to hear ..im a bit over 90 degree bend and 0 straight im increasing walking outside and on static bike but im so glad ill continue to improve after 6 weekd

[@Slagstripes]

When I had my Rh partial replacement I felt like a truck had gone over my knee for about a fortnight. It did slowly get easier afterwards, but the swelling was the worst problem. I did find out that the anti - coagulation therapy I was taking as safety measures was actually keeping the knee swollen. When I stopped the meds the swelling went down and stayed down within a week! I've just had my LH knee done (partial) and that is a completely different story. The night I came home I forgot to take my painkillers and I regretted it! I woke up in agony, after taking 2 co-codamol and 1 nefopam I was eventually able to get to sleep. The amazing thing is, I woke up with absolutely no pain and I have had virtually no pain since! Ibuprofen and turmeric taken together twice a day has reduced my swelling back down almost to my bony knees. 17 days on my heel is 2" from my butt when I bend my leg. I'm wondering if my antibodies see the 2nd implant as friendly as my 1st implant has been in nearly 12yrs

[@SoaringSpirit1111]

Iam 48 hours out, after the nerve block wore off 😱 Giving birth was less painful. Will get there . Thanks for the video.

[@davidpaniagua6835]

Great video,I had a revision full knee replacement on November 13th I still have some pain and can only bend 90deg.

[@pearlenethomas9057]

Same here. Mine was November 3rd of 2020, and I'm still experiencing some swelling, not so much pain. I've just reached the 110 range of motion. I'm also getting a second one done soon.

[@ler3968]

I'm in the group after surgery of one year plus with moderate to high pain constantly. The first 3 months were very difficult for me. My Phy Therapist said knee replacements are a lot tougher to rehab than shoulders or hips in her experience. After about 18 months I was able to bend the knee to about 90-100 degrees but still to this day significant discomfort sets in pretty quickly and I have to straighten it. I ride a motorcycle frequently with the knee about 120 degrees bent so I think I'll just have to deal with this forever. 😒😒.

[@ruthirwin8222]

Aw thats so hard for u..take care

[@vickicornerstone3020]

6 week out pain in middle pt of knee and on the side of knee still on pain medicine. Aleve and tyneol not helping?

[@carmensantiago5727]

Agree

[@steverogers6921]

I am going through it right now at 4 weeks post op, I cant wait to get walking again.

[@psfgtech]

Liquor ok for pain?

[@marshavoight659]

I appreciate your help.I had a rough one albeit did PT X 3-days a week ok about one month PO I woke up with horrific heel and arch pain mostly heel and I have done everything but shots still major pain. It’s been weeks now suffering and my knee is painful too I didn’t sign up for a trade from a good foot to a painful one! Having other knee done December-God I pray this doesn’t happen to that foot too! I cannot walk right Please help! Thank you Marsha

[@meerutpat]

My surgeon who was going to do my Knee replacement told me that the pain was agonizing. He said it was extremely painful, the worst pain you could have and could lasts for many months up to a year. I cancelled my surgery and am losing weight and doing gentle movements. The pain is less and I am glad I did not put myself through all that pain.

[@villasoka884]

Mine did the same, said I’d not had a cortisone injection, or strong painkillers, etc. Well I did have the needle, painkillers did not ease the pain, they didn’t work! Drs seem to have a quota, they want to do the worst. I was sick of being fobbed off and not being able to do anything, walk, stand, etc. I told the dr I couldn’t live like this any more, my life was too limiting, it had to be done. He had a talk to someone, he came back with a yes. The surgeon who operated on me said it needed doing! So it was BS! I am so happy to be able to walk and stand, I think clearer, not having pain and planing trips to avoid walking, YIPPEE, best thing I ever did.

[@SelfLoveJourney56]

I wish my surgeon would have told me just how painful surgery was going to be. I’m at nine weeks and can’t wait until the day when I don’t have to think about my knee. It is a constant annoying tight knee. I wish I never had surgery.

[@patriciavillareal6334]

I’m 5 months from my initial knee replacement and I can say I’m still in pain and stiffness still walking with cane 😢

[@ruthirwin8222]

Im now 9 weeks and very sore and a bit stff....im still om strong painlillers

[@rajaabarazi9087]

وأنا مثلك ايضا لقد مر 5 اشهر على عملية تثبيت الرضفة ومازلت لااستطيع المشي جيدا لاأعرف ماهو الحل لقد فقدت الأمل

[@kimpalumbo2264]

I appreciate this video. Im going in 8/25 for a TKR. Will report back soon

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Good luck!

[@gregpeterburs4155]

This is going to sound weird, but pain is not your enemy, it’s your friend, it’s part of being human . Your body’s way of warning you , not something to be afraid of but something to work with . I’ve had a halux fusion of my right big toe , fractured right femur close to the hip joint, broken fingers , fractured L1 & L2 vertebrae and knees so worn that the surgeon said he could have put it in upside down and backwards and it would have better than what I had. To make sure I don’t forget what pains all about I’m full of tats . I still hike , train with weights , and put in 19k - 20k steps a day and I’m 75 soooo 🤔

[@totaltherapysolutions]

I agree 100%. We couldn't survive without pain. I heard a quote, "Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional." Sounds like you are doing amazing. Keep up the great work.

[@gregpeterburs4155]

@@totaltherapysolutions I had a younger athletic surgeon who knew I was still athletic so the prosthetic was adjusted for that somehow, and he told me I probably wouldn’t be doing 3-4 hundred lb squats any more which is fine , my other joints will appreciate it . My PT person did not make it easy , remember being on verge of tears trying to get the 125* , but it worked and went back a few months later to thank him for his work on me 👌

[@TheKennynix]

It still hurt so bad I don't want to stand or sit. I'm talking about almost a year and a half of pain after the surgery . I feel like crying half the time because the pain is so bad.

[@thegreypath1777]

How are you now?

[@rachie_sherlock]

ICE packs for the knee are so amazing 😍 I am 7 days into my TKR it sucks, but ive not gone into it blindfolded. It may take time. Ages. But ill get there. Because there is where i need to be. Good luck to you all 🤞

[@SandraLopez-nq4xn]

I am 14 weeks post bilateral knee replacement, walking way better, the arthritic pain that use to killed me is gone but i have pain an stiffness on the lateral side of both knees.

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Yep, a lot of people trade one kind of pain for another. But the hope would be that this pain will continue to improve where you know the previous pain was just getting worse. 14-weeks is still early in the game so great job!

[@SandraLopez-nq4xn]

@@totaltherapysolutions thanks Tony i watch your videos all the time from Canada. I also forgot to mention that I fell 3 days post op and my incision on my left knee opened and i broke my patella. Ouch!!

[@bt9124]

@@SandraLopez-nq4xn Whoah. Poor luv. I was so doped up that i fell too, not as much damage tho as i just forgot abt knee and wrenched it slightly. Good luck with mending.

[@SandraLopez-nq4xn]

@@bt9124 thanks so much for your kind words

[@billd.5892]

@@SandraLopez-nq4xn Ouch, Sandra ! Just reading your sad tale made me wince. The lateral side of my incision is still numb and I've managed to smack it into some furniture a few times, but nothing like your tale. Best wishes for continued progress For me, so far, so good; now am 13 wks post-op and am riding my bikes again. ;^) (age 79) I'm sure you'll improve - but pls do keep it on 2 wheels !!

[@nlazaron6058]

I am nearly 8 months post surgery I still have swelling and pain - but I had no strength to hold my knee together so I was on a crutch up until 5 months 😔 the leg was collapsing on me but I'm finally walking unaided and have good days and not so good days

[@jamesandes644]

I am almost 1 year out from my total knee replacement. I still have pain in the back of my knee. Dr subscribed a Tens Machine and said it could take up to two years. I can at least cut grass again and things around the house, I’m 66 years old and I am considering getting my other knee done next year

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I am 2 months in. Using only Tylenol. My knee feels tight every morning and if weather is cool and humid (Florida)……I am in trouble. I will be happy when that tight band leaves. Other than that, my extension and bend of the knee is great. Just the throbbing and the occasional jabs…probably remembers what that mean surgeon did to it……

[@kathleensmith9660]

Oh at last honest comment thank god

[@martebergman4669]

I’m 5 YEARS out and it still sucks! I need to have the other knee done, but I’m too fricking scared 😱

[@thegreypath1777]

@martebergman4669 - You may need more therapy in your first knee. Please consider that. Go back and discuss this with your knee doctor.

[@thegreypath1777]

A year. It takes a year to fully recover from a Total Knee Replacement. I had my first one done ten years ago. I made up my mind that I was never going to do the other knee. I finally broke down and had my second knee done two months ago. It was just as bad as I remembered. But, it’s going better this time because I knew what to expect. The secret? Therapy, therapy, therapy. You may not believe this. But, therapy is the secret to a good recovery. Based on my first knee that I had done ten years ago, my pain was at a Nine (9). Today, the pain in my first knee is at a Zero (0). So, I keep reminding myself regarding my second knee. Warning: This is NOT something you can do by yourself. You will need help. Plan on it.

[@TheKatwoman0852]

I did the walking in the pool at the Y a lot before and went back to it 4 weeks after....had 12 week appointment yesterday and pain all the time still! He told me it still could be a month or two. I had to go to a specialist surgeon cause of my issues. I have barely any knee caps left and tons of arthritis he had to scrape on left one, have the right to do yet...'MAYBE' next year.

[@inthecrosshairs4480]

It lasts as long as it lasts. Of course not everyone is the same. And there is no normal or average. It takes time. Sometimes a long damn time. I had 3 catheters, resulting from the block. I had constipation for two weeks on and off after then. Massive swelling of my entire leg down to my ankle. My pain levels were off the charts for weeks.

[@annamariearnold2626]

Oh gosh after reading the comments I’m afraid. I’m getting my left knee in a little over two weeks from now Dec 7. Now I’m really scared I don’t do well with pain. In fact I’m on pain meds now cause of how bad it is plus I fell that made the knee worse. Help I’m scared the comments freaked me out but I can hardly walk I walk with a cane go up steps like a dog. I need to do this I think

[@BeatriceSmith-qk1ip]

😢😢Me to but it gets better I'm 45 walk with a cane I love icepack helps...

[@maureenrawley5883]

It’s been 10 months since my knee replacement surgery still pain……

[@assharamphul7997]

Me 16 weeks still having pain

[@dburd58]

Just had my 7th knee surgery, a TKR of a hinged unit along with shortening of the quad tendon so I was in a brace for 2 months. At the end of the 2 months I began doing PT at home since I'm well versed in it and I got my movement/flexion back with time. At about 2 1/2 months the shin pain started pretty severe went back to doctor he x-rayed, moved it all around told me it was radiating pain from patella. I'm extremely frustrated, so much pain with no pain relief from doctor and now struggling to walk at all but he tells me to keep walking. Anyone in my family can tell you I'm overwhelmed with pain, I haven't slept more than 2 hrs a night in 3 weeks so I'm ready to give up. I know what it takes to recover from knee surgery and I know when something doesn't feel right, I'm at the point that I don't trust ANY Orthopedic doctors. I've had 4 now but I thought the last one could be trusted.

[@annebarnett1885]

Funny you should comment on yr knee. I live in Spain a d fell down the Palatine Hill in Rome. I went private for my op because the hospitals were full here. You know I'm thinking I can't say I had a tremendous amount of pain but 12 months down the line it's not too bad. I think mine was where I lived we had to get from the house step to private road, up a little hill and then a sharp hill down. My pRtner was v patient. Now I can't walk half as much as I could before the op. And that's why we live in Spain. I suppose if it doesn't get better in another year then I will go back. At the moment I'm using a revitive machine and my friend gives me a leg massage once a week. However I had a plastic knee and this might be my problem.

[@AshaBhumkar-u7h]

5 months back I did KTR surgery after 4 months pain reduced but not stopped . Still there is swelling n

[@eldena61]

A year and a half out and still having pain but only when I bend my knee. Ugh.

[@thegreypath1777]

@eldena61 - It sounds like you need more therapy. Sometimes you need to change therapists.

[@phylmar1]

The pain goes away but the stiffness is still there. I had knee replacement two years ago still have a problem getting up off a chair. I need the other knee done and possibly a hip. I am terrified to have it done, the pain of the first knee lasted for months, in spite of months of physical therapy the pain finally went away😢

[@dannymanny6917]

Holy cow, now I'm wondering why I had it done!

[@sashabelle9355]

Wow...just had a total knee yesterday...

[@christinarobinson1808]

Me too🙄

[@EvelineNow]

I agree. And I am allergic to opiods

[@christinarobinson1808]

Last time l wrote l was 3 wks in with tkr, it's now 7 weeks I'm completely off painkillers now walking up stairs, still struggling with coming down and walking every day on treadmill.l promise things do get better,there is a light at the end of a very long tunnel ☺️hope this helps someone,hi from the UK x

[@cgoody9913]

45 yrs old, ex police sergeant had mine done, 3 months out and yes it is tough....

[@susananunez5801]

Hi Tony it's been 16 weeks now after my TKR surgery but i still have pain and stiffness and walk limping. Can you do some exercises for the 4-5 months TKR please🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@shirleyandreas7480]

Since I don't have help I would spend couple days in the hospital and then to rehab, because I have a few health problems

[@thegreypath1777]

@shirleyandreas7480 - That sounds normal. Good luck.

[@coolhandluke2310]

Had one done in 2005 and it always hurt like hell. Still does. 😢

[@michaelreed9652]

72yo 5 weeks post-opt...........this sucks and hurts......why did I do this......

[@creepyuncle542]

Seeing things like this scares me. I'm 2 weeks away from getting and let's just say I'm terrified

[@a.w.thompson4001]

After 7 various surgeries with no pain issues, I had terrible pain management, likely due to another prescription preventing it from working properly and possibly a genetic issue--some pain meds don't work well for me. So consider this the worst case: a month of agony, despite the prescription, a month of misery tapering off the prescription, but better after. Great function from the first days--i could tell things were vastly better mechanically. PT was a breeze in terms of pain because it was already bad. 13 months later pain is rare, and I can do almost everything I want to do with no pain and little difficulty (can't bend my knee all the way, but worked at it and it's better than the normal result.) Before surgery my leg would crumple from stabbing pains, so I couldn't work. Would I do it again? Now I can say "Yes." Chuan, hang in there. It will get better!! You might find it helpful to know that the physical therapists, who are the ones treating patients *after* surgery, said pain generally lasted longer than my surgeon thought it should, and that it was not "in my head," which was very helpful. Belly, you can do this! Most likely you will have a much better experience. I was terrified, too, and because Covid-19 hospital limits had just started, had to go through it with no hand-holding, but the hospital folks were wonderful, and I am so happy with the knee now that I'm planning a thru hike.

[@creepyuncle542]

@@a.w.thompson4001 Thanks for the reply. I had my surgery and my surgeon said it went great. I'm day 11 PO. The swelling is still severe. I can only bend about 45° but after my first physio 3 days ago after stretching and such, I was able to get to 65°. Hopefully next week is better. The pain is bad. When I bend my knee or try to I should say, the muscle and fluid gather in my thigh above my knee cap and it makes a hard lump so it won't bend. I'm icing and elevating multiple times per day. I'm on tramadol and lyrica although I've stopped lyrica. I don't feel great with it. Surprisingly I'm able to sleep okay with my leg propped up, but when I wake it feels like my leg is on fire even though its not warm to touch. This feeling goes away quickly once I'm awake and active. I hope week 3 I start to see some improvement because I'm skeptical now. I had a sharp pain on the inside of my knee that would suddenly come even while resting before surgery and I get that same exact pain now. The feeling like I was standing bone on bone is gone at least.

[@AgentBarb99]

It gets better..

[@TheKatwoman0852]

Nobody will tell you the truth about the pain!!! Or we wouldn't do it right!?! This has been awful....I had 3 tares on shoulder and it was 8 months PT....nothing like this knee and I have one more to do yet! I am 4 weeks out and it is NOT FUN!

[@dianaelsby2688]

I'm at 12 weeks and still have a deep aching pain in my knee and down the front of my leg. Swelling is still daily.

[@thegreypath1777]

@dianaelsby2688 - It’s only 3 months. Hang in there. It will get better. It will be worth it.

[@hailiejade349]

Is it normal to feel pain in the knee when you walk after 4 weeks with TKR?

[@thegreypath1777]

@hailiejade349 - Yes. Give yourself a year.

[@toddandangelbrowning2920]

I had mine March 11 2021. I am just now this week, getting to where I can stand it. I am getting along better but it hurts at night. I sleep in the bed now with a pillow between my legs which helps but does not alleviate it totally. I had one two years ago on the other knee, it still hurts. The knee cap isn’t riding right on that one.

[@laura1705111]

Why does my heal hurt

[@class87srule]

Hi, Tony! UK patient, 4 months post right-TKR. Still a lot of pain - 4-5 - trying to climb stairs foot over foot and descending is around 2-3. Stiffness and spasms early morning on rising but get better as the day progresses. I'm not able to sit too long because of stiffness on re-starting and although I'm driving again - cautiiously - it's hard getting in and out; need the driver's door wide open. I'm not sorry I had it done - except for the first two weeks - and my walking is improving although I need more confidence with the operated leg. Is this common in a post-op 70yr old or should I be seeing my consultant for different meds than codeine 30mg and paracetamol 1g every 4 hours? Enjoy your page immensely.

[@wandzettadarey9024]

I have constant nerve pain

[@lilyg4998]

Have to have both knees done this year , I'm terrified now after looking at some of the videos. 😒

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Everyone's experience is so different. Choose a surgeon you trust and pick a therapy team you enjoy. They will take good care of you.

[@melanieeberlin9210]

I had bilateral knee replacement done nearly 4 weeks ago. The pain was not excruciating but I have definitely been uncomfortable especially at night. I am walking around the house unaided and using stairs everyday. I do my physio exercises multiple times a day but I don’t overdo it. Bilateral is the way to go if you need to have both done! I wouldn’t want to do it again in 4-6 months for a second knee. My physiotherapist says I’m crushing it! Ice everyday multiple times a day!

[@CJada304]

It is normal to be apprehensive. I was. But one of the things I did was to practice the exercises that they have you do after surgery. Your doctor (which is where I got my list from) can give you a list of what will help.

[@Clarkson350]

Doctor says it can go on forever

[@totaltherapysolutions]

Sadly this is true for some.

[@ammmmur6511]

8 days out from tkr - pain is better than- by better I don’t mean great but it’s just a bit more intense than it was before my surgery ( I had a torn ACL plus bone on bone ) . It’s not great but I can now manage without crying and without taking oxy ( oxy was very hard on my stomach). Do I haven’t had an oxy since yesterday am. Hoping to continue. I’m doing about 4K steps a day - don’t want to overdue tho I’d like to get back to 10k steps - I know I have to hold back.

[@brendahatcher8944]

I'm 9 weeks out from a revision TKR on the Left. I had a revision on the R in 2018; cried once during recovery, but bounced back. I am in pain every waking moment, with it getting as high as 6/10 to 7/10. I've done everything as instructed, but baffled as to why I hurt so much. The pain spikes when sitting in a chair. I get up often, move around, do stretches, but the pain lingers. I can't sit at the dinner table without pain. I'm wondering if there's nerve damage. Something just seems 'off'. ???

[@nadinefroderman157]

It'll be 5 yrs this August since my first and I can finally say, that knee feels fine. Had 2nd knee done almost 2 yrs ago and it still bothers me.

[@bubba1473]

I have shin pain while on my feet all day at work, 10 weeks after knee replacement

[@thegreypath1777]

@bubba1473 - How are you doing now?

[@bubba1473]

@thegreypath1777 it's alot better shin pain went away months ago seems like

[@akrocuba]

Having had both knees replaced I can tell you in my experience is that every knee is different. My right knee, 3 yrs ago, went very well and fast. I just had my left done anout a month ago and it is, from what I understand. "Typical ". It's going much slower recovering than my rt knee. P.s. Some advise from someone who is currently going through it. DON'T OVER TRAIN! I did after two weeks and i am paying for it.

[@sylviaahensley]

I am 6 months from surgery still having nerve pain Insurance won't cover nerve block what do I do?

[@AIRMANBEAR]

I ADD A TOPICAL PAIN CREAM ALSO ..

[@angesanotv5927]

Me it has been 2months and a half they did a total knee replacement but in side of my knee they come out moree dirty water and sometimes blood so I really don't know what to do now!can you guys explain to me well why am still bleeding and dirty water come out of my knee?? Briefly my knees was blocked so after my doctor pulled a total knee replacement in my knee and I still have these circumstances.guys if they are someone who knows why I have that problem plsss explain to me well🙏🙏

[@JohnPetalas]

I need TKR but you people have scared me completely. I knew it would hurt but I certainly didn't expect it to hurt for weeks or even months. Maybe I need to reconsider.

[@Sandyman406]

I don’t want to scare anyone but we need to be realistic and honest. Day 3 post TKR op and, yes it hurts like hell, but it will get better and be worth it in the end!

[@thegreypath1777]

It WILL be worth it!

[@deepanaik8112]

If single leg is operated, does the other leg gets shorter in length

[@thegreypath1777]

No.

[@petersandersonco]

Up and àb out after doubt knee replacement in three weeks slight pain

[@lindaelston4728]

5 weeks out and the main problem I’ve had is the painful sensitivity all up and down the calf. It hurts to touch it, and I’ve been trying to desensitize by runnning various cloths along it, not helping much. It keeps me from sleeping much.

[@cmmercante]

Find a good DO doctor. He will manipulate the muscles and fascia to release the pain and stiffness. I was having lower back pain and it all disappeared after one treatment. Your body needs a release!