What to Expect After a Total Knee Replacement: Week 1 to One Year Post-op

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What to expect after a total knee replacement surgery. Realistic expectations 1 week to 1 year post surgery.
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[@Stephen-ix2ny]

Great, honest and straight forward presentation! I wish my doctor had given me more information of what to expect from this surgery. After 25 years carrying mail, my right knee was just worn out. 3 weeks ago I had the knee replaced and I must say out of all the surgeries I've had over the years, this was and still is absolutely the most painful one. I had the surgery performed in Japan(where I live) and stayed in the hospital for 2 weeks while going through PT. I found the pain management here is different than the US. Pain meds are not as strong and not as much of it. Because I've had almost "0" pain relief for 3 weeks now, I've been researching resources for anything to help with the pain. Doing my stretches, short walks and icing everyday and only need a cane. As you said, I wake up every 3 hours from pain so sleep very difficult. I am making progress little by little and I know that I will eventually get better but the constant pain 24/7 is really wearing on me mentally. I found some comfort in your professional real life experience with knee replacement patients. No regrets for having the surgery as it was needed and 1 year from now I'm sure I will be glad I had it done. Sorry for the long comment, just needed to vent a little. Thank you so much!

[@suddenlysolo2170]

Thank you for the informative video. I am 12 days post op with a total right knee replacement. I am recently widowed, so I am having to manage everything on my own which is difficult.

[@wagwag630]

Good luck, hope you're doing well!

[@rachelphelps6347]

Oh bless your heart. I hope you are doing so much better by now.

[@westwasbest]

How are you doing and how do you feel now that you had your knee replacement, hope all is well!

[@kurtk.4532]

Your amazing. On your own! I'm post op 10 day and can't imagine being on your own.

[@martinbailly573]

A totally honest and realistic time line ! I had both knees done and this video expose the reality the procedure. Excellent ! Should be recommended by doctors during consultation !

[@altondubose3415]

I love your no nonsense explanation. Going to see my surgeon 9/3/2024 for TKR. As soon as he’s ready I’m ready 😅

[@ask4tech]

Day two post op... no walker or assistance walking, no narcotics and a 1 mile slow stationary bike ride this morning to supplement my at home pt regimen. Your fitness level and preparation determine outcome (as well as a master surgeon). I'm 56.

[@baydweller8241]

Similar age, three weeks post op and still can't do a full rotation of the bike pedals. On a cane, can't sleep, still taking pain meds at night and before PT. I feel like I'll never get better.

[@sherrillhorridge1809]

i wish my doctor hadsaid this--i would have been exercising before my surgery.

[@kenwooh1]

I had my left partial knee replacement two weeks ago and no one explained to me that I feel sharp, throbbing pain of my knee at night. Now I can understand fully why this night time pain is happening. Thank you Dr. S.Smith. Ken Wooh, M.D., retired

[@sadielaurentiwhitley3762]

Hello Dr Samantha, I’m 6 weeks post op and I absolutely appreciate your videos. I found your channel a few weeks ago, and grateful. After day two, I stopped all pain meds, and only took Tylenol and advil for the first three weeks. I now take turmeric and watch my food intake not to eat inflammatory foods. No pain, just a lot of discomfort and I still can’t sleep at night more than 3 hours at one go. So far PT has been great and I reached 130 degrees last week as I hit 6 week post op. I’m 58, and motivated to improve daily.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Wow amazing progress! The sleep part is really tough. I have a couple articles about sleep: www.succeedcourses.com/blog/how-to-sleep-after-knee-replacement This one too: www.succeedcourses.com/blog/Trouble-sleeping-after-knee-replacement

[@andreaanderson4846]

My uncle is 70 years old and he had knee replacement in both knees he is a farmer, he dry farms grapes and harvests walnut trees, among other vegetables and fruits, ….. he is on 80 acres, he eats extremely healthy - no process food and no sugar ….. and is very physically fit….. he hikes up and down mountains, hills…….. he recovered very fast from his knee replacement surgery……. I wish people or doctors would talk about how important it is to reduce inflammation in the body to take turmeric along with black pepper, and to stay away from alcohol and sugar, which causes inflammation. Also process foods causes inflammation in the body……. Super important to eat, extremely healthy and take vitamins, especially while healing from surgeries……. super important to make sure to do the physical therapy exercises…… a lot of people wonder why they don’t heal well, but they’re not really doing the exercises they are supposed to be doing…. My uncle said it was painful, but he pushed through the pain and went back to work He had to be working back out in the fields two weeks after surgery…… people don’t realize how hard farmers work… farmers are up working at 5 o’clock in the morning and work all day long……

[@SheXyShellyMarie]

Everybody is different. I just had TKR on Nov 8th. Didn’t get out of the hospital until Sunday Nov 13th. He realistically wanted me to stay but I couldn’t take another moment in there. No one told me anything. I didn’t watch videos or ask that many questions. My knee was a wreck. I had a torn meniscus, advanced arthritis in all 3 compartments, broken cartilage, bone spur, and bone on bone. Since this would have marked my 20th surgery, I figured it would be a piece of cake. It wasn’t and isn’t. The pain has been really hard to control and the swelling is really bad as well. This is day 11 and I can only bend my knee 80%. I cannot get into a car (which made getting home a tricky nightmare) and I run my ice machine all day long. I’m angry that my doctor didn’t explain how hard it would be for me since I have CRPS. I didn’t have much choice about getting it repaired, but I regret it completely. You will need help and assistance with lots of things. Home health and PT has been so important.

[@karst41]

Wow I checked in at 6am was home at 1:30 pm Total time asleep 90 minutes something like that. The OR looked like a an automotive body shop Frame Alignment bay. I started talking and they said enough of that!

[@SheXyShellyMarie]

@@karst41 Lucky you. Things have dramatically changed for me. Now the PT says I’m 6 weeks ahead of others and can bend to 116 degrees already at my 6 week mark. I’m good with that.

[@karst41]

I had major swelling issues too. I thought was becoming Lymphedema. I went to my Reg Doc. reviewed my Rxs and one of the PA's had put me on Amolipodine for Blood Pressure,, George asked why I switched from Losartin, Heck I dont know one of the PAs wrote that last year. It turns out that Hoint Pain Muscle cramps SWELLING All common side effects of Amolipodine. Within 4 days on the losartan this 'Ish! started going away and after 3 weeks Was back to normal. Please look into this. But I am at 7 months and still tons of pain.

[@SheXyShellyMarie]

@@karst41 Look into what? I don’t take those type of drugs.

[@rachelphelps6347]

I have one coming up very soon. I have watched everything I can about it, and appreciate what info you shared!!

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Thank you! Join my fb group for knee replacements. Lots of good info on there facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@maggiemay97]

I'm having my right knee replacement in January. Like you, I've done so much research I feel like I could perform the surgery. I had a meniscus removed 47 years ago, long before they developed arthroscopic surgery. I have a scar almost as long as the one from a TKR and woke up in the recovery room praying I was going to die! I had no idea the human body was capable of producing such pain. But I survived. There wasn't PT like we know it today. I had to hang a bucket on my ankle and fill it with weights and lift it about a thousand times a day. My surgeon told me I had to continue until I could lift 50 pounds! I never got to 50, but I think I got to 30. Back then they sent you home with the knee immobilized in a brace which stayed on for several weeks. When the brace came off I had to sit in the bathtub 5 times a day in warm water and work on getting the knee to bend for 20 minutes each time. Somehow I got through the pain and the rudimentary PT and was normal for more than 50 years. But that missing meniscus guaranteed me arthritis and now at 71 I have what my surgeon described as extremely severe bone on bone arthritis. I'm not relishing a year of suffering to recover from my TKR, but I have to do it for whatever percentage of normalcy I'll end up with for the 10 or 15 years I have left to live. Spending those years with the pain and disability I have now is not an option.

[@rachelphelps6347]

@@maggiemay97 Oh my goodness!! That was rough what you went through back then! Things have come a long way since, thankfully! This Tuesday I go back to see my ortho doctor and that will be 6 weeks since I had my TKR. I was truly blessed because after 4 days I could walk on my own without the walker or a cane. My other knee needs replaced as well, but I want to wait until this one is good and well before I do the other one. Perhaps in the summer I may get the other one done. I pray that all goes well for you with your upcoming surgery!! I pray that 2023 will be a great year with less pain!! ❤

[@hmac2476]

Going in soon. Not looking forward to the pain.

[@lindaelston4728]

I go in tomorrow. Not looking forward to it either. I’m 72

[@sparklander]

I am at 8 weeks after TKR. I have finished up my PT, but during the last two sessions my therapist was trying hard to get 100% straightness, ending up with needing 5 more degrees. Now I have pain on the outside of my knee from her pushing down on the knee extremely hard. I am hoping it is not injured now. I am glad I got the surgery.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Give your knee some time to rest and it should improve. I have a video on my KZbin about knee straight stretching!

[@tomcollins1441]

Doc Samantha is right on the nail head with this information and well presented visually and orally

[@richardthomas1566]

Great Video I wish I saw this before my surgery I’m 90 days out but getting ready for my left knee . I never knew the pain would be so long but it’s going great .

[@dr.samanthasmith]

It’s tough. And it’s a long journey. Are you apart of the Facebook group? Https://facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@JoAnneCortese-jm9oq]

Thank you - in the hospital now and two-days post surgery. This was helpful!

[@stanwhite2579]

Wow! Perfect concise and realistic presentation. I was thinking about having both knees done, but I guess I have some more thinking to do.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

It’s a big decision! Join my Facebook support group! Lots of people in there with real stories. It’s so helpful if you are interested in doing the surgery soon facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@karst41]

My Big Big Big regret. My knee was really bad everybody was like. Oh yeah Get the TKR. What I wish I had done was to try the Blood Platelet therapy. something like that. My Pain Doc said in Bassic(layman's terms) he takes som blood from you and through the centrifuge they separate Platlets and Inject that into your knee.. to promote healing. And Bone does regenerate By the time I found out about this I already had the TKR. I tried the Hyaline in the Rt knee, but I urge you to try this platelet therapy. My question What IF I had done this and immobilized the leg for 6 months and then took another xRay? This will be my plan for the Right knee. It is not in bad condition yet. Cheers.

[@BlueDoginRedSoLa-PT_Chic]

I have all the immediate post surgery "discomfort" and I haven't had the surgery yet. The more of these videos I watch, the more I realize that I should have had the surgery months, if not years ago.

[@BlueDoginRedSoLa-PT_Chic]

Update, a series of injections to revive (temporarily) the cartilage seems to work well enough to postpone the surgery. There's a complication. Spondylolisthesis at L5 - S1 has confused me about the source of the pain. I'm now consulting other medical professionals for this matter. 🙁

[@Peacheslaroo]

The more you waddle around on your knee and or sit around the house because your knee hurts the worse your back is going to feel as well.

[@BlueDoginRedSoLa-PT_Chic]

And, the more stress is put on my other body parts - shoulder problems now. There might be an underlying medical issue. Seeing my GP in a few days.

[@raymondpearson6850]

1 month out....still can't sleep, still can't straighten my knee...still using a walker for long distance, a cane for short distances....

[@HeyYall398]

You are the best 🎉

[@Wendy-yg8yu]

I’m waiting to be called for surgery. I’m hoping to get second knee done about 6 months after. Thanks for the information. I’ve put this off for three years but after talking to others I figure it can’t be any worse than the pain and discomfort I’m in now. Family doctor said don’t expect full recovery for a year.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Glad you are here leaning about the surgery! Please check out my site too to get prepared. I have a lot of preparation course and guides on my site. www.Succeedcourses.com

[@lonnettegeorge3629]

Thanks for the advice gives better expectations for my mom's surgery

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Have her follow the Facebook group! Https://facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@anthonyrettaliata7311]

Getting mine done November 30th 😊

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Check out my website for more info! www.SUCCEEDCOURSES.com And join the fb group! Https://facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@runin1wild]

Thank you for your information! I will start watching your video for more information and hopefully everything goes smooth before and after surgery since I haven’t had surgery yet not date has been set, still working on test. I have a deformity in my leg for a accident many years ago with a broken femur. Bone was never set correctly being in traction and over years it finally catch up the way I’ve been walking(leaning more to the right wearing the inter side of the knee down) . I also have arthritis in the back both hips as well as the left knee so I haven’t really decided if it’s going to be a TKR or partial yet. That’s only the half of it after that heals I’ll have a hip replacement. My Dr already ask if I wanted the hip or knee done first! I guess the knee sounds more practical for now, as that’s seem to be more of my pain and problem walking. I’m also alone with no help so I hope I can manage by myself.

[@sharicohen274]

Good advice but I think it needs to be stressed that elderly patients with other joint problems should not rush to come off a walker - it will only cause antalgic gait patterns and asymmetrical stresses on other joints. Very important to maintain full range of motion from day one, but strength and stamina need to be built up more slowly.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

I absolutely agree! Great advice.

[@lizlemon9632]

Realistic info. Thank you.

[@carolbrannock5146]

I am into the 6 th month little pain but still lots swelling and inflammation, still hard to walk and I have a limp

[@barbarasonnier9004]

I am at that same place….am struggling

[@evanskopp8477]

Really great and informative video. I wonder if the timeline changes significantly for partial knee replacement.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Yes it does! Partial recovery is 3-6 months.

[@anitadhir2062]

Yes I am four months if I stand for 2 hours it the bone under the knee starts aching

[@janerogers5717]

I'm 6 months post op and my knee hurts like hell, i feel I'm going backwards rather than progressing. I made good progress initially, but not now. 😢

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Join my exercise class to get on track. www.succeedcourses.com/Exercise-class

[@ariepstein3914]

I’ve seen a fair amount of people say that it does feel like their original knee. When you say 8/10, what’s responsible for the two points? Is it basically that kneeling and running could affect it, but other than that it’s like your real knee?

[@coringtonbaldwin7629]

Great Intel...I am at 9 months...no pain, and I can't run at all...The 2 things that stands out is I still can't sit on low couches , cars without hand assistance and/or stabilization and I can't walk comfortably in point toe boots or dress shoes.. I can't wait for my 12 month point and I have 2 questions for you?...1) I have heard in other videos that full knee recovery could take from 1 to 3 years...is that true? and 2)..I have heard that running is out after full knee replacement...does it depend on the individual?

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Yes 1-3 years is correct. Depends on how your body reacts and if you’ve had any set backs. Running is not recommended but if you NEED to run, you can. But if you want to do running as an exercise, I’m not sure anyone would recommend that

[@tibaross4461]

That is a good information video, thanks 😇

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gopinathr2574]

Knee replaced patients climbing stairs normally mam

[@daviddowns8068]

I'm at 4 and a half months still sore when I get up

[@harryfong9829]

I am one year post-op after right TKR, still struggling with on and off stiffness, mine PT person, said to move and walk, sometimes remain stiff, frustrating. Is there anything advise, you can offer? Thank you

[@dr.samanthasmith]

I agree with your PT. Do you notice more pain and stiffness when you do too much? You might need to start a walking program to improve your knee endurance and tolerance to long duration activities. Are you in the Facebook group? Https://facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@walterpasciak63]

I had my total knee replacement this past thursday (today it's sunday). The swelling goes from my feet to almost the top of my thighs. So should I expect for the swelling to go away quickly except for immediately around the knee? I'm very active. I expect of be scull rowing in 6 weeks, on the pickleball court in 8 weeks, and skiing in December. Doctor seems to think that would be reasonable for me.

[@davidteolis1919]

Just had knee replacement surgery 4 weeks ago. Kinda fell backwards and may have torn my quad. Can't left my right leg at all. Have serious swelling. Any suggestions?

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Please see the surgeon!!

[@carolynfreeman184]

How long before you can get on the floor and back up

[@kurtk.4532]

Can anyone answer why I cannot go to sleep after 10 days without taking a pain pill? I don't want to get addicted to them ! Any comments are appreciated. Thank you.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

www.succeedcourses.com/blog/Trouble-sleeping-after-knee-replacement

[@pamelahuley3055]

Is there anything other than ice and elevation for swelling and stiffness? I’m 20 days post op TKR and not feeling I’m progressing as much as I can due to swelling and stiffness. Surgeon recommended focus on ROM and limited walking. Help, please!

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Yes! Please see my video title Stiffness. You’ll get more detailed information there

[@sharicohen274]

Elastic pressure bandage from your toes to your groin

[@dradamrosen]

Thanks for sharing. Great information. This is information I share with my patients at 1 month ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6G6XntmormdmZY ) and 3 months ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJfVnX6pqZJ6m5o )

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

Pain….

[@Novak000]

How long after surgery should u start pt

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Day 1! If you don’t have PT or want extra guidance, I have a Post Surgery Course with my full protocol in it. Www.Succeedcourses.Com/post-surgery-course

[@SachindwivediDwivedi-zw3gl]

Mam, may you tell me averagw age of knee implant .

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Of the person? 65 years old.

[@SachindwivediDwivedi-zw3gl]

@@dr.samanthasmith for adult male mam

[@williamlloyd854]

What about nerve pain in the lateral, CO lateral area. It's super hard to overcome the pain. In my lower, outer section from knee to ankle. There is always a tingling in my foot. Been 30 days

[@martinrowland67]

Same here. I think it is referred from my back/hip. I have been trying to release tension in my glute with a massage ball against a wall. I think it is helping some but that nerve ache down my calf and into my ankle and foot is keeping me from sleeping longer than about 90 mins. 4 weeks post op, TKR