Managing Fatigue After Knee Replacement Surgery

[@lindamadden7264]

Thanks. I needed to hear this. I’m six weeks post TKR and unexpectedly have had HBP issues and post tibial tendinitis to deal with and I’m trying not to give in to depression, but I’m drained because of the sedentary lifestyle, the loneliness, and it’s just difficult to go from busy to trying to deal with this. Usually Im the one cheering people on but this is really getting me down and lack of info from professionals doesn’t help.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Sorry to hear about your difficulties following surgery. This is definitely an aspect of the rehab and recovery that is not talked about as much as it should be. Just understand that in the vast majority of cases it does get better and as you continue to recover and build strength and mobility you will feel better and better. How you feel now is not for forever. Best wishes to you in your continued recovery.

[@jangriffin-fi1yx]

Sorry to hear this. I am very lucky have 4 kids & 7 Grandkids they are good to me either phone text or come around although I love being by myself going at my pace. I've only been home after TKR 12th day today so early days kept busy nby all exercises elevating icing & reading/listening to KZbin love all these good knee videos most helpful. Believe that all will work out soon alround for you. I love being independent can't wait to be able to drive again don't like relying on anyone all the kids too busy feel nuisance 😊 Wishing you a speedy recovery think you have done well atc6cweeks as it is a journey & a half 🍀🌻🌻🌻

[@M.M435]

Most beneficial advice from anything else. Thank you for talking through this challenge that I have not heard/seen from any other therapist including my own.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

You are very welcome, glad you found the video helpful. Best wishes with your continued recovery!

[@blairwillis9199]

I did have fatigue after my tkr 6 weeks ago! I feel better now but I've had to dial back my enthusiasm about feeling well because I did over-do things. I needed to elevate and ice the knee to get the swelling down to be able to do the exercises and participate well at PT. Thanks for your information.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Thank you for watching, glad you found it helpful!

[@toryberch]

What helps my mental health when struggling with chronic pain or fatigue post surgery is my favorite things like scented candles blankets heating pads cold packs fav movies and foods.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

That’s great, and thanks for sharing this helpful tip for others!

[@jangriffin-fi1yx]

That is very good advice thanks I like as all natural. I also find going for 20/30 min walk most days or when feel overwhel.ed/down helps a lot too especially on cold overcast days. Go walk around beach as very uplifting being there. I also think reading affirmations that are positive helpful ❤

[@hoppinessandinnerpeace2647]

Thanks for talking about this. Compared to many previous surgeries, TKR has given me much more fatigue. And it has persisted for weeks. It's very helpful to hear that it's normal and understand the likely causes.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

You are very welcome, thanks for watching! I hope you start to see improvements soon and best wishes with your continued recovery from surgery.

[@cynthiahawkins2389]

Yes, hubby Ric used to park the car away from our house. (The French Quarter in New Orleans, where parking can be a nightmare). So, he'd keep a bike in the car and pedal home...But after the his VA Hospital (successful BTW)...knee surgery, walking was encouraged, but biking would have to wait until specific Out Patient VA therapies began, for that set of muscles. Anyway, he likes to walk the bike home, and during a grocery shopping trip, he overdid it. I think this is pretty common as you heal, since you are sometimes TOO fast in resuming normal activities. "Don't give in to it", another elder friend used to say. Hubby is 78, and we live in a four flight walk up with no elevator; that may explain his 'zeal'. Cheers from New Orleans!!

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Thank you for watching and sharing your husband's story! It is common to have times where you just do a little too much and your knee and body lets you know. I tell people there will be ups and downs as you recovery but it is important to focus on the overall trajectory. Best wishes to you and your hubby!

[@kimby1826]

I'm 8 weeks out and am SO tired, even though night sleep has improved. Fatigue also impacts my lack of motivation to do routine tasks. It is summer as I write this, so I want to get it together to enjoy this season.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

All very common, unfortunately. It does get better with time, and improving sleep will help. Try to maintain a good sleep routine and stay active but rest when you need to, it's a balancing act, best wishes with your continued rehab.

[@LeadershipLadyLive]

This was SO EXCELLENT! I am an extremely high energy person who typically does not get a lot of sleep. At 7 1/2 weeks post surgery I’m feeling so very tired now but I guess I just really do need to take it a bit more easy.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Thank you... yes, the healing process truly takes a lot out of you. Rest and recovery is just as important during the rehab process.

[@christineb653]

Terrific summary and advice after surgery …..helpful

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Thank you and thanks for watching! Glad you found the video helpful!

[@tandajohnson8617]

Great information

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Glad it’s helpful, thanks for watching!

[@jodihd5702]

Fatigue and depression were rough the first 2 to 3 weeks. At week 3 things turned around dramatically pain and progress wise. I gave into taking naps which I fought in the beginning. I am getting the other knee done three months after the first. I know what to expect and have a different mindset.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Thank you for sharing your personal story and glad you are doing better. Best wishes with your continued recovery and upcoming surgery for the other knee.

[@etharmohamed6270]

Is it same for a benign tumor removal surgery from distal femur and filling the gap by autograft ?

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Many of the techniques and tips I share in this video can be used for any post-surgical fatigue.

[@richardkeeton9926]

Can you say when fatigue eases

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

It is going to vary a lot so hard to give a specific time. Often, the first few weeks after surgery are the hardest and then slowly over time as your body heals and your symptoms improve, the fatigue starts to improve as well. Some folks this is a few weeks, others maybe a few months.