Recovery Timeline After Total Knee Replacement

In this video I share my experience as a licensed physical therapist who specializes in treating patients after total knee replacement surgery. The timeline I provide is a rough idea of what most people experience. This information applies to a large population, not an individual.
Your recovery from total knee replacement surgery is uniquely your own. Don't let what other people do or say influence how you feel about your recovery process.
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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
(513) 539-2886

Пікірлер: 156

  • @michaelheffernan446
    @michaelheffernan4466 ай бұрын

    One thing I have learned 8 weeks after a TKR is that everyones journey is completely different. You will drive yourself crazy making comparisons, and will just end up depressed. In recovery, unlike fitness training, more is not always best. I was doing too much and causing a vicious circle of swelling afterwards, this was actually reversing my gains. My surgeon told me I was taking the long way round. It may be counterintuitive but feel free to be lazy, elevate the limb and use lots of ice, this is hard if you have been very involved in hard fitness training, but that's just me.

  • @barrysmith8193

    @barrysmith8193

    3 ай бұрын

    Good comment. I’m 76 and been in a full life of physical fitness all my life so being “lazy” isn’t in my vocabulary. Looks like we have to give ourselves permission to slow to recovery speed and have full positive brain occupation. Thanks for sharing.

  • @no1but24
    @no1but242 ай бұрын

    I just wanna point out. My wife was 54 when she had a total knee replacement of her right knee she got off the Walker in a few days and got off the cane within two weeks and was able to drive etc. took her a good 3 to 4 weeks to be able to sleep in her own bed but can only get one or two hours of sleep because of all the pain. she’s at three months now. I don’t know the exact medical term but the scar on her knee is raised causing a lot of tightness. She had to go to the surgeon and get some kind of injection to loosen that scar so I could roll the incision to get it. They don’t think it will ever go down to normal something in her DNA I don’t know, this is week 13 and she is back to work part time. She is in the food service industry and is on her feet eight hours a day. She comes home in so much pain after her shift. She has to take a day off of work and then go back so she’s only working two days a week taking a break in between. I’m trying to say is anybody who has to stand on their feet eight hours a day in a fast paced environment I would really consider not getting this unless you have a good short term or long-term disability where you can be out of work for a while everyone told my wife oh you’ll be back in three months with no problems that’s not the case she’s only going back because she feels bad sitting all day, it was driving her insane

  • @asharp6591
    @asharp65917 ай бұрын

    11 weeks out and still in pain and have swelling. I wish surgeons and PT’s would be more realistic about recovery from TKR. There are very few people that breeze through this recovery and surgery.

  • @davidmcc8727

    @davidmcc8727

    4 ай бұрын

    I had a knee revision 8 weeks ago and was warned about how painful it would be. I had mild pain for 5 days, seriously, and that was all. Everyone is different

  • @hodgsonish
    @hodgsonish8 ай бұрын

    My knee replacement pain ran into the tenth week both times. Nights were very bad. When I was taken off T3s and put on extra strength Tylenol and Advil (and I was glad to say goodbye to T3s for many reasons: side effects), the pain continued. I tried icing the knee but the pain started moving deep into my hip and ankle and all over my calf and thigh. I had no choice but to suffer through and continuously shift my position in bed, on the couch and so on to try to get comfortable. The pain started to lessen at the end of the 10th week-like a miracle. This is the most painful post operative experience I’ve ever endured and I’ve been unlucky enough to have also had many other extensive surgeries including neurosurgery. A TKR is surely the most painful of them all. I’m banking on the hope that by Christmas, when both TKRs are well behind me I’ll be glad I had them done because living with osteoarthritis was almost unbearable.

  • @hodgsonish

    @hodgsonish

    6 ай бұрын

    An update. Post Christmas and I’m without pain in either knee-mild ache but fading. I’m now working on getting my gait normalized (not limping). I’m on a recumbent bike every day for 40 mins. Best physio ever. But I walk too and focus on heel-toe long strides in the rubberized track at the gym. Onward! I’m getting there.

  • @ghc26

    @ghc26

    5 ай бұрын

    @@hodgsonishthank you for sharing. I’m glad you’re doing so well. I’m 8 weeks post op. I guess I’m hitting the milestones but it is still overwhelming at times, am I doing too much, not enough, ugh. It’s still tender and numb and it feels like I have a belt tightly holding my knee together. Trying to take things as they come, but what a process this is!

  • @emperorofcuntstittiesprink155

    @emperorofcuntstittiesprink155

    2 ай бұрын

    Heya and congrats!! You're where I'm headed so if ya don't mind Ive got some questions for ya, with respect and administration. I'm approved, to get both of my knees replaced so sometime between now and middle of June I should have one new knee joint. What do you wish you had been prepared for, or would you recommend anything different than the standard, to your old self?

  • @cindycooper7933
    @cindycooper793310 ай бұрын

    I have watched your video's since my TKR in September 2022. Not enough support with PT so ended up going private which saved me. I am very active so slowly gaining back things but it still swells where implant goes into bone if I push it. Slowly getting stronger but honestly a year is realistically a fair time line. I still think it takes longer and still dont feel normal it does not bend somedays very stiff. Just thank you for your video's they lifted me up on my dark days and made me appreciate I was normal everone heals differently. Stay positive. This is a hard club to be a member of.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    10 ай бұрын

    I am so glad the videos helped. Stay the course and I am sure you will get to where you want to be.

  • @cathyspeed5301

    @cathyspeed5301

    10 ай бұрын

    I’m so pleased to read all these testimonies as iv got my op due next year depending on waiting list and I feel apprehensive.. I have family but they all have stairs so probably stay in my sheltered housing flat ( I think) but it is scary for me

  • @dixiebrantnerdereus3416
    @dixiebrantnerdereus34162 ай бұрын

    I'm seven weeks post-op this Thursday. A friend remarked that she was surprised that I was still using my cane! Hopefully, I will feel confident in my walking real soon. Thank you for sharing!

  • @melindatillie1163

    @melindatillie1163

    2 ай бұрын

    I still use my cane when leaving the house.Cement won't bend!

  • @user-yg9bv6po2l

    @user-yg9bv6po2l

    23 күн бұрын

    My PT said until my quad was stronger, keep the vane. Can I walk without it? Yes, but I notice I don’t bend, I stiff leg when I use my cane I bend. My quad had a hard time waking up. I couldn’t lift until about 3-4 weeks. My heel would not come off the bed. I’m frustrated when I see others but I’m doing PT 3 times a week still and doing all the things but the stiffness and soreness is still there and getting out of bed in the morning takes me a while to get going. I’m 7 weeks now and still struggle. Confident? No way. I still don’t go anywhere alone. I do all the things and struggle. So just trying to be patient with myself because right now I hate my knee

  • @barrysmith8193
    @barrysmith81933 ай бұрын

    Finally!!!!! A point by point timeline/guideline of step by step expectations and result oriented. This I can understand, prepare for, and target. Dietary guidelines to enhance the minimization of inflammation along with pre-surgery physical fitness-preparedness would be in good order here also. Many thanks.

  • @brigittewangberg9223
    @brigittewangberg92237 ай бұрын

    I love these videos and group, thank you!

  • @tracywalton4496
    @tracywalton44969 ай бұрын

    Found your channel and think your advice is clear and very helpful to follow. Especially your video on walking correctly. I’m finding your videos more helpful than the advice I receive from my PT. I’m in the UK. Thank you for doing the videos. I’m 6 weeks post op and due to having had painful sciatica I have focused on the rest, ice, PT exercises and walking around at home. I have just started walking along our road a short distance today pain free. I’ll follow your videos and gradually increase the distance I walk. I’m using a walking aid but I will stop this when I feel stronger and fitter and more confident. I’m a horse rider so keen to get back to take over the care and riding of them. I ll probably not be able or attemp to ride until 6 plus months so plan on continuing walking and doing my PT daily.

  • @vtxdaryl
    @vtxdaryl5 ай бұрын

    Great explanation of what I can expect down the road.

  • @soniarodriguez8377
    @soniarodriguez83776 ай бұрын

    I love all of your feedback and information. I wish you were my therapist. Bless you

  • @jondstewart
    @jondstewart6 ай бұрын

    I’m 9 months out as of today and still have a little swelling, numbness, tenderness, and thigh a little gimpy. It’s supposed to take almost a year to completely heal.

  • @brendanoel2318
    @brendanoel231811 ай бұрын

    Thankyou so much, the 5th month and all of what you said is true...I miss therapy because I know it definitely helped me. At 249 weight now, used to be almost 280. Therapy made me get back to good 👍 I feel so much better. Left knee bone on bone. New knee is still stiff but after I wake. 12 step ups I'm good. Horrible Varicose veins too. They even subsided. All is I can say is Therapy rocks! Even though it hurt so bad. Only cause I gave up on excercise. Prior with bone on bone. I feel ready to hopefully dance at my son's wedding carefully in September. Thank you for all your videos they kept me moving. And I'm gonna keep moving too! Amen! You guy's are the best in all you do to help people get back to good. God bless you all! ❤

  • @gruber1650
    @gruber165011 ай бұрын

    I'm in the UK and had a right knee replacement in Dec 21. At the 12 month appointment with my surgeon I said I was surprised it hadn't healed fully and he said it takes 2 years to recover, he said the numbness and pain would get better in the next 6 months and he was right, now 20 months after the op it's not far off being healed.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Wonderful! Thanks for sharing your experience. It helps others who don't feel healed after only a couple weeks or a couple months.

  • @yardrail3432
    @yardrail34325 ай бұрын

    I came upon your podcast quite by chance and I'm very glad I did. I found your info very reassuring and I thank you for sharing your valuable time with us. I'm 9 weeks into recovery from tkr and I'm still working to get to the other side of pain but it is manageable. My family live with me and during the day when they are away at work or at school I have two dogs to look after. In a way this has motivated me to be positive and keep 'my eye on the prize'. I'm determined to keep my role as CEO of my household. I was driving at 6 weeks and it was so good to get out and about again. I go to physio therapy twice a week which enables me to interact with others on the same journey. I am a little slower at doing everyday household chores and gardening but I can live with that. As the months go by I'm just glad the surgery was a success and the rest is up to me. I wish the very best outcome for others who are recovering. Thankyou again for your helpful advice Doctor. You are much appreciated.

  • @tempest957
    @tempest9578 ай бұрын

    Excellent infomation. I've had my left knee partial replacement which recoveringwas excellent. It took 18 months to 2 years to get back to complete normality. Im now about to have a full right knee replacement this month, so your info really helps and its very similar on the recovery of a partial replacement , Thank you! P.S Love from the UK and our NHS health service is excellent, dont belive what you hear on the news !!

  • @tomthompson22
    @tomthompson224 ай бұрын

    Good video Tony. I am 60 and have two tears in my right meniscus and my knee swells up and is sore the next day or two after pushing the exercise, especially playing pickleball (which I love). My research about meniscus surgery tells me its a short term fix. I have also consulted with three different surgeons, had multiple X-rays and an MRI and done much PT for it. Two of the surgeons, who do replacements many times week, felt it would be premature to have my knee replaced because it was not bone on bone. I have talked to several people that have had very positive experiences with total knee replacements. Yes the pain is bad the first few weeks but all of the people I have talked to are now very active and happy they went through with the surgery. There are a lot of negative experiences as I read through these comments and I suspect most people fall within the 20% that have less than positive outcomes. Anyway, I wish I could get back to pickleball but without a knee replacement its not in the cards for me right now.

  • @tg0186
    @tg018611 ай бұрын

    Love your channel! I had bi-lateral joint knee replacement 3 1/2 weeks ago, and your videos have been extremely beneficial and encouraging! Thank you very much Tony! You are a gem! 🙏

  • @lencavallaro6781
    @lencavallaro6781Ай бұрын

    I agree. I had my knees replaced 4 weeks apart and each knee was a different journey. Luckily the first knee was “easier”. The milestones came quickly enough to keep me encouraged. The second knee took its own sweet time in hitting those same milestones and wound up needing MUA. But the end result was ultimately excellent for both.

  • @debraschepers9381

    @debraschepers9381

    4 күн бұрын

    What is that?

  • @lencavallaro6781

    @lencavallaro6781

    4 күн бұрын

    @@debraschepers9381 Manipulation Under Anesthesia. They put you out and the put your leg through flexion and extension to break the adhesions limiting the knee’s range of motion.

  • @jennifersoto07
    @jennifersoto075 ай бұрын

    I am 7 weeks out and in no meds or devices. I still have swelling, burning and a range of 100. Also I have a hard time sleeping. I am still walking off balance. I feel my surgery leg is longer than the other so it makes me walk of balance. And I had a hard time with the meds.

  • @catherinebeaudry5661
    @catherinebeaudry566111 ай бұрын

    Thank you for sharing this. I am 4 months in recovery from tkr and I regret it almost every day. I have had post surgery complication from femoral nerve damage. Things are improving however, I still can’t go down stairs easily.

  • @paulgibby6932
    @paulgibby693211 ай бұрын

    I was 67, active walker and cyclist, former soccer player until 59. I missed one day walking my dogs after surgery. But the pain at night, the sleeplessness, the sudden excruciating pains, continued for weeks and sporadically months, though I was getting stronger and working on the stretching and PT. I really didn't feel "good" until 1 year. I was surprised that the knee was numb, though my doctor told me that at the last minute that that was common (kind of a bummer). I am now 2+ years out and just beginning to feel "normal". I can jog (very slowly, e.g. 12 min/mile -- my rationale being that it's not much more than a walk, so I can't be stressing the joint that much), I ride a bike and play tennis. So, basically, other than the numbness and the fact I can't kneel down on my haunches (?) I would say I'm ok/healed/recovered after 2+ years. But I am going to try like h*ll to make sure I don't have to get a TKR on the other knee! Thanks for your channel. I wish I had checked it out before my surgery (I didn't do enough pre-work probably).

  • @bw162

    @bw162

    11 ай бұрын

    Nice work! And that’s what it takes.

  • @patriciacrocker9481

    @patriciacrocker9481

    10 ай бұрын

    I had a partial on left knee. 10 yrs later had total. Still had swelling yrs later, not sure the time length but 2 yrs ago had replacement again due to loose components still in pain. I try every day to exercise. 1 day squats and step work. Next day I have to work with machines due to pain from day before. I am fighting to be stronger with God's help but feeling disappointment

  • @bw162

    @bw162

    10 ай бұрын

    @@CardLucas-oi2cz It is amazing. When I looked in the mirror 10 weeks post op, the visible size difference was amazing.

  • @bw162

    @bw162

    10 ай бұрын

    @@patriciacrocker9481 It sounds like you need to see a new doc. Not-withstanding other health issues, that isn’t normal.

  • @patriciacrocker9481

    @patriciacrocker9481

    10 ай бұрын

    @@bw162 glad to know I am not the only person thinking some thing isn't right

  • @davep9172
    @davep917211 ай бұрын

    Thank you for your fantastic videos. I am in UK and struggle to get the kind of general guides that you provide. It is reassuring to have these kind of guideline because everyone you know and talk to is an expert who tells you what you should be doing as if it is an absolute. I greatly appreciate your pragmatic approach to providing the information. Many thanks. Dave in UK

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the feedback and I am glad that it helps.

  • @LisaZboray
    @LisaZborayКүн бұрын

    Thank you so much for this. I couldn’t find any such information prior to my 1st one. And it’s spot on for my personal experience.

  • @user-ok4ec3ud6c
    @user-ok4ec3ud6c3 күн бұрын

    The best info 😊

  • @nealvaught8176
    @nealvaught81763 ай бұрын

    Terrific video, thank you so much. I wish I had watched this before my procedure three weeks ago. I am still dealing with pain and swelling and thought I was way behind the recovery curve, but it sounds like that is not necessarily the case. Thanks again for a very helpful video full of great information!

  • @kirkjohnson4226
    @kirkjohnson422611 ай бұрын

    I’m 16 months post op with bilateral TKR . Worked hard with therapy have good range of motion can do stairs most day ride a bike and generally spend normal amount on my feet. I still have soreness at the end of the day with a tight swollen feeling and some nights trouble sleeping. Dr says all is well but I’m still looking for the day when things feel normal again.

  • @griffithfamily5702
    @griffithfamily57027 ай бұрын

    This is the MOST informative, accurate channel and information that I have found USEFUL. Thank you Tony....

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    7 ай бұрын

    Wow!!! Thanks so much.

  • @robertstotts8868
    @robertstotts886811 ай бұрын

    Going for my 1 year check-up on 8-15. Been watching your vids and using a lot of the info to speed/aid my recovery. MUCH thanks for your efforts! I am doing very well with my right TKR.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Glad to hear you are doing well! Thanks for sharing.

  • @user-bz3on1hz2c
    @user-bz3on1hz2c7 ай бұрын

    I am just shy of three months post op. I have been extremely frustrated and have searched everywhere trying to get some answers. Listening to this was very soothing. Thank you for you kindness and advice. I was at 118 ROM prior to surgery and they were able to force 116 during PT, by being very aggressive. I wanted to continue therapy but the therapist didn’t feel I needed it. I still have a lot of pain and am petrified that I am not where I should be. This was a very difficult and painful experience. They encouraged me to do heel slides and lay on my stomach and use a band to pull my leg to force the bend. Somehow my mind won’t force my hand to cause me pain beyond what I can handle. I still have swelling and prefer not to take anti-inflammatories, but can really feel a difference when I don’t. Any further advice would be so very much appreciated.

  • @juliamonaghan1506
    @juliamonaghan15062 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the great advice. Has made me feel that I’m on track after all.

  • @RoseBudFC

    @RoseBudFC

    Ай бұрын

    Keep going! I'm at 5 weeks today and while night pains in particular have been excruciating at times and I kept waking up and having to move, ice, massage my leg, take another acetaminophen, sometimes with perscriged codeine prior to last week, etc, it's starting to get a little less achy pain this week. So give it time and keep moving during the day, (I've found 3 short walks a day, even in rain, with last one as late as possible, 8-8:30 so I dont stiffen up again too much before bed at 10-11, and you will get there too! Stay strong.

  • @user-ok4ec3ud6c
    @user-ok4ec3ud6c3 күн бұрын

    Thanks for that

  • @emanalsiniy5844
    @emanalsiniy584410 ай бұрын

    Thanks for your valuable information

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    10 ай бұрын

    You are welcome.

  • @bw162
    @bw16211 ай бұрын

    I am 9 weeks post op. No issues with ROM (0/130) although it was painful to achieve. Sleeping in bed is not pleasant. Quality sleep is very elusive. Do not be confused with what you are able to do, and the doc allows, with being pain free. I can cycle and walk 2 miles but it is frequently not without discomfort during or after along with stiffness and occasionally swelling. Regaining the strength in your leg and hip is a tuff task requiring work and discomfort (also known as pain). This is not like any other surgery where you go home, lie on the sofa for a week or two and then gradually resume your life. Your leg virtually refuses to function for at least 2 weeks. You can’t lift it off the bed. You can’t bring your heel up towards your butt. Forget pulling on your socks. Getting up from a chair requires your arms to do nearly all the work. It wasn’t until the 6th week, even with good ROM, I began to think the pain was diminishing and function was returning. Working in the shop on my feet for longer than an hour will create discomfort. I am confident now it will work out ok but I no longer think I will be totally through it for likely months to come. You can anticipate periods of frustration, wanting to stop working at it and even full blown depression at times. It ain’t for sissies. IMO, you need to be a disciplined and goal oriented person to get the best results. I am learning patience is a must. I am 74, and was very physically fit and active cycling and mountain hiking before the surgery. I intend to be so again, Lord willing. I couldn’t have gotten this far without Him.

  • @brigittewangberg9223
    @brigittewangberg92237 ай бұрын

    Looking forward to almost forgetting I had tkr done! Thank you, I feel encouraged!

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    7 ай бұрын

    You got this!

  • @michelesullivan359
    @michelesullivan35911 ай бұрын

    Three years on my right knee still struggling going downstairs, 2.5 months on left side..same.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Sorry to hear that but thanks for sharing.

  • @stephaniegreisen9176
    @stephaniegreisen91765 ай бұрын

    This!❤ thank you

  • @kimmy2011
    @kimmy201111 ай бұрын

    I truly rely on you and your knowledge. Just had RTKR today. Thank you for sharing your valuable information.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much for the kind words and I wish you the best.

  • @marysteven3004
    @marysteven30047 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for this time guideline, your video made me feel that perhaps I will recover. I am 69 years old; a retired nurse practitioner, and 3 months out from TKR. I feel I am not doing too well. I have hip pain (piriformis syndrome) that I did not have before surgery and still have significant pain in the knee. I am trying to go back to my usual activities, and activity is improving, but I am far from back to where I was prior to surgery. Before surgery, I swam several miles per week and did an elliptical trainer. Now, I still cannot walk up and down stairs as well as I did before surgery. When I am sitting around I feel ok, but walking is still very painful. When I call my surgeon's office to request a visit, his front desk staff refuses to make an appointment, as I am too far 'past the post-op healing time'. I will give it until 6 months out, then I will seek a second opinion, if there is not improvement. I would NEVER have another knee replacement.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    7 ай бұрын

    I am glad that this might help. The hip and piriformis pain is relatively common. If you were doing that much before surgery I am sure you will get back to where you were. It may just take more time than we would like. Hopefully you have a great PT team and they are helping you stay positive.

  • @russellbray7615
    @russellbray76154 ай бұрын

    Had left knee TKR 10 weeks ago. Doing good with it. Still off work for 2 more weeks. (Plumber on new construction mainly). Doing all my rehab as instructed. Twice a week out and once a day now at home. Was off pain meds like in 5-7 days. Had 123 degrees by the 7th day. Hurts bad to get it but thats what it is. Still not to zero on flexion. Can use heat and can get it. U HAVE TO DO ALL THE EXERCISES EVERY DAY.Mine was 3 times a day to start. The day i got home. Mine was outpatient surgery. Walked to the car. Use 5# weights on ankles doing a lot of exercises. Leg lifts ,marching type exercises. Laying on stomach on bed with knee hanging off, stretching it straight for minimum 15 minutes. Hurts yep but I've got things i want to keep on doing. Had my right knee done 3 yearsxago this May. Can do anything i want on it. Takes a full year to be comfortable with it. Still play competitive softball in Senior leagues. Travel and play some. Played probably at least 40 games on it plus construction work, hunting ,fishing etc. Still feels tight. No pain ever. Never sit and watch TV. No clue whats on. Lift some weights and exercise as needed. Looking forward to get back in a groove again playing. Be 69 this August. To stop is to go backwards. Rathercwear out than rust out. By the way, both my knee replacements are Comformus knee replacements. Check them out. Good luck to all.

  • @julesingham8029
    @julesingham802910 ай бұрын

    S big thank you Tony from the UK as your advice since having had my TKR 14 weeks ago has been fantastic & you have helped me with numerous exercises to make great improvements, especially with extension as it just wouldn’t seem to improve until I did the correct exercises, relaxed a bit more & understood I needed to have more patience!! Thanks again

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    10 ай бұрын

    Wow! Congratulations. Thanks for the kind words and sharing your progress.

  • @bradleyhannah8713
    @bradleyhannah871310 ай бұрын

    I have had two replacements on the right I still have pain . I had the last surgery 5 years ago.The first replacement broke in half after five years. If I was gonna do it again I wouldnt, this last one was the most pain I ever had. Out of surgery I had to beg for pain relief it was miserable!

  • @johnburke-yu9pt
    @johnburke-yu9pt10 ай бұрын

    Hi Tony, excellent video, I am at 2 weeks, making progress but still having sleep an hour here and hour there, e.g. up 6 times last night. But I just have a shower (hydrotherapy) and sponge bath which my wife co-administered. Felt great at the time, then I got out and felt almost like a “new person”. I only had Level 1 pain (before the shower close to 3). So, what changed? The gentle spray of warm to very warm water on my skin and the touch of human hands on my back and neck relaxed all of the muscles in my body. And simultaneously, the pain receded to very low levels in all muscles. So, muscle tension clearly influenced experienced pain levels. And unfortunately, flexing and extending leg muscles increases whole body tension with a resultant increase in experienced pain. Somehow, a ficused PT exercise program needs to incorporate relaxation techniques (hydrotherapy is one) to at least improve temporay subjective outcome (and probably also improve objective outcome).

  • @georgiosbitados4296
    @georgiosbitados429626 күн бұрын

    It's exactly like you said. Tomorrow is my fifth month. I love it. It wasn't that bad. You need someone to look after you for 4 months

  • @emilymanhart368
    @emilymanhart36811 ай бұрын

    I am two years post op on my first knee, one year on the second. Knee number one would feel terrific, but I still have some lingering patellar tendonitis (self inflicted due to going too hard at the gym about 4 months post op). The knee done about 14 months ago still has a bit of stiffness, but ROM is just fine. Bottom line, while I don't feel quite like "normal" after even 2 years, BUT I have been able to return to my normal activities and feel WAY better than I did pre surgery.

  • @AKUSUXs
    @AKUSUXs8 ай бұрын

    My first knee replacement at 38 years old, took over 6 months, I also had to have 2 manipulations. After about a year it felt pretty good but it would always look swollen. The swelling would seem to always be there but no answers as to why. I just lived with it wasn't really that bad. However, about a year ago I started having a lot of pain issues, especially at night where it was the worst. I saw an ortho surgeon (original surgeon retired) had xrays and everything still looked good. We decided to go through a course of PT. The first session I discovered the reason for all of my issues. The freaking knee HAD BEEN RECALLED IN 2018! I have a Smith & Nephew Journey BCS I, UGH! I was never notified about this, hospitals and doctors were! AKA... SCREW THE PATIENT!!! So NOW I'm struggling TO, get any decent SLEEPalong with continuous swelling and pain. I notified Smith & Nephew, they started a "case" earlier this year but I've heard nothing sense.

  • @lindacobb9781
    @lindacobb978110 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for your videos they are helpful. Question, is it ok to wear compression hose during the day? I am almost 5 weeks post tkr and on my feet a lot and feel they give me some support.

  • @Ww2warbirds
    @Ww2warbirds6 ай бұрын

    I got lucky I'm 49 and I had my left knee replaced Aug 2023 and my right knee replaced Dec 7th When I started therapy I was able to bend my leg to 132 degrees and when started therapy for my right knee I was measured at 125 degrees. I but I still have a tremendous amounts of pain

  • @torpeich2
    @torpeich210 ай бұрын

    Hello Tony from Spain. 4 months from LTKR. 50 years. Almost full extension limited by knee inflammation. Flexion 130 . I would like to know if the inflammation is due to the operation rather than the activity and how long can it last? Thank you very much

  • @kathyclark3168
    @kathyclark316811 ай бұрын

    No, you're not off base; 4 more weeks of PT and that maybe it. I'm going to go back to my chair aerobics soon at my rec center (I'll be careful). I never really walked down stairs the way you describe but we're working on that in PT. Thank you for getting me started in the right direction, you've helped me a whole bunch 👍🙂

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much for the kind words. Sounds like you will get there!!!

  • @laurelsybrandt9530

    @laurelsybrandt9530

    9 ай бұрын

    I’m 😅😅

  • @verahoupt4048
    @verahoupt404811 ай бұрын

    Aug 22, 2023 conversion to full left knee. Not my first rodeo. 2010 partial left, 2017 full right, 2019 replaced spacer in right. We leave to go to Florida for winter at 9 week's post op. Will I need therapy after that? I was off work 4 week's with partial, 6 with full knee. I am 68 year's old now.

  • @amishmuscle2536
    @amishmuscle25362 ай бұрын

    This is the absolute slowest recovery I've ever heard! I'm a PT and all I can say is this is worse case scenario!

  • @nothannsmum
    @nothannsmum8 ай бұрын

    You’re video is positive for the 3month to 6 months and onwards. Yet most comments here say the experience they’ve had is negative, hard and on going pain and a truckload of hard work. 30 years with this injury and my surgery is in 4 weeks. After reading the comments I am depleted of any kind of hope.

  • @seaofghosts

    @seaofghosts

    7 ай бұрын

    As someone who is having a TKR in six weeks the comments in these videos aren't exactly encouraging. BUT those who are most likely to watch these videos are also those who have had problems with it. I'm hoping it doesn't represent the majority. My husband, btw, has had a TKR. No problems.

  • @kistaa1

    @kistaa1

    5 ай бұрын

    I am 19 months post RTKR and 7 1/2 months post LTKR. My experience has been positive with both. RTKR I was pain-free after 10 days with occasional ache. LTKR totally pain-free after day 4. Flexion 132 for RTKR and so far 125 on LTKR. I am walking, climbing stairs, taking care of everything better than I was prior to the surgeries. I still have some numbness that my surgeon says at this point may not go away but it is only superficial, and occasional tightness. 100% better than before. I wish I had done this sooner. Just make sure you are walking and doing your exercises at least 2-3 times a day. Follow Tony's videos if you are not in PT now. It will get better. I promise.

  • @Misshissproductions
    @Misshissproductions11 ай бұрын

    I’m at 3 months and still in the regret mode. Not a ton of pain…. But a terrible tight band feeling around the knee which impedes walking without a cane. The left side of my calf is numb as well as the right side of my knee. ( right TKR ) - I can drive now but it took over two months and my husband still drives me to PT because after PT my leg still makes me nervous to drive myself home. My bend is around 117 and straight is -1 last measure. So I keep praying the tight band goes away as it stops me from doing so many things I want to do. I vlogged my journey so far if anyone is curious. Thank you.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Sounds like you are facing the same challenges as a lot of others. Thanks so much for sharing. Also, congrats on your KZread channel, you have over 1K subs. That is awesome.

  • @Misshissproductions

    @Misshissproductions

    11 ай бұрын

    @@totaltherapysolutions thank you… those subs were from our original show years ago when we did game reviews. We stopped doing that, but then I decided to blog my knee replacement as I didn’t see a whole lot of people doing that when they’re having issues. There certainly are a lot of people who show their knee replacement, and how wonderful they’re doing. I was hoping to be one of them, and I still am. Thank you for the reply I appreciate it.

  • @toryberch
    @toryberch10 ай бұрын

    Anthony, can you do a video on TKR and Parkinson's. I'm 59 with Parkinson's and i have mostly slowness stiffness. I'm going in Nov for my surgery. I would love some tips and info from you

  • @superadaytwars3592
    @superadaytwars359211 ай бұрын

    Nearly 11months post,most pain has gone,at four months distcharged from physio rom 90 surgeon said he was happy with that,iam still the same rom,managed to get back to see a physio at my gp but he said the chances of of getting any more range now is probaly a no.😢

  • @liamgeary7467
    @liamgeary74675 ай бұрын

    Tony, pity I didn’t see your channel before today, 4 months post TKR/ right. First therapist who spoke ‘normal relevant’ language. No BS.On 5 occasions I have had seizure/ 8.50 for 24/36 hours, my surgeon team think it’s imagination, not to me. Am I alone.? I believe I’m not, just Surgical personnel just hasn’t got all the answers ( as you Tony, correctly, admit.- you are alone, sadly). Could you discuss’stiffness’, when to use medication/ what level, going ‘downstairs’, getting back on bike( difficulty with rotation). I’m Male, late 70’s. Many, many thanks. Tralee Ireland

  • @marynancy1187
    @marynancy118711 күн бұрын

    I live in a home surrounded by gravel roads and farm yard. No nice paved areas to walk, wondering when I can get out there safely. 20 days post op still walker dependent.

  • @Mimzie-Arizona
    @Mimzie-Arizona7 күн бұрын

    I had total knee replacement surgery 11 days ago. I shower by myself. I do housework for 2 to 3 hours a day including floors. Then I ice in my recliner. I can go without my walker 5 ft at a time before I get wobbly. Nights are the worst. It hurts.

  • @emanalsiniy5844
    @emanalsiniy584410 ай бұрын

    I had 8 weeks ago TKR I have good stability while standing and walking and I had 120 degree of flexion passive range of motion on CPM Machine but till now had problem with functional flexion, i can bend my knees to 105 I have pain, swelling and tightness on the sides of the knee that is reduced with cold pack.I can go up on the stairs and come down with out problems

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    10 ай бұрын

    What does your physical therapist think it is?

  • @aaliyah154
    @aaliyah15410 ай бұрын

    Im only 28 but my doctors said I need a TK Replacement due to my loss of cartilage and bone on bone following my 8th surgery from an ACL surgery last year im so scared to go thelugh it all again and still not be able to walk I have not walked in a year almost. Been on crutches since January 2023

  • @toniaturnbill5624
    @toniaturnbill562410 ай бұрын

    I am 13 weeks out and still have some scar tissue at the quadriceps and top of knee. Will this go away? I have stretched, rolled and massaged it. At one time I had quite a bit. This area the scar tissue is lingering. Can you recommend something else that i should be found? Thank you Jimmy.

  • @brianlebrun2382
    @brianlebrun2382Ай бұрын

    I have 2 replacements coming. My doc says he's kicking the can down the road to buy more time by doing gel injections in about 3 weeks but he said eventually the knees will have to go. My question is how often are both done at the same time. I don't think that'll be an option but I'm just curious. I have friends who've had a knee done and the comments range from "it's the best thing I've ever done" to "I should have lived with the pain". I've dealt with this for 40 years and after 5 surgeries which included cement for fractures in one of the knee joints, unable to walk from the parking lot to the front door of a store without having to take baby steps....I think I might be ready. Thanks for the insight.

  • @MM-bs6jv
    @MM-bs6jv9 ай бұрын

    I’m at 9 weeks TKR and I still can’t get full extension or flexibility past 100. I’m seeing PT twice per week and going to gym two times per week with a personal trainer. Also, I 7:25 started using a flexinator in the past week, 7:25 6 times per day in 10 minute increments. I don’t understand why I can’t get past the hurdles.

  • @martaortiz7214
    @martaortiz72149 ай бұрын

    I found your channel 3 wks ago, what a blessing! Im 73 yrs.old, had my surgery 3 months ago and doing good so far, my concern is falling as my balance isn’t the best, fell last year twice on my left knee (which needed TKR for years) So now I can’t seem to shake off the fear of falling again without using my cane, I don’t use it inside the house, but I have friends that had the surgery in less time than me and walk without any assistance of devices! I feel frustrated! Will I be able to walk normal again? Replies are welcome, thank you ❤

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    9 ай бұрын

    Sorry to hear this but the good news is with time and practice you will always be able to improve. Just be patient with yourself. Give yourself the time you need to overcome the fear and get comfortable again.

  • @martaortiz7214

    @martaortiz7214

    9 ай бұрын

    Thank you ❤

  • @lydianichols0326
    @lydianichols03269 ай бұрын

    I am going on 4 months PO of LTKR I am still in a lot of pain from hip to ankle i ho to PT 2xs a wk do my exercises at home and just started to go to senior center to ride bike for 20 to 30 mins jopefully to strengthen leg. I am unable to do stairs just doing 1 at a time. I would think after doing pt brfore surgery and doing after that the leg would be getti g stronger. Pain in hip groin, knee (when bending) calf and ankle. Knee dr says everythi g looks ok. I went o my hip dr as i have 2 hip replacements l and right. Since tje knee surgery the hip hurts. What more can i do to help myself. I need to get back to work. Thank you in advance. Lydia

  • @dianeseverino5590
    @dianeseverino559011 ай бұрын

    I had my surgery 5/24 and praying I could go back to work with no restrictions.

  • @dianeseverino5590

    @dianeseverino5590

    11 ай бұрын

    My appointment with my surgeon in this Monday. Crossing fingers.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    What do you do for work?

  • @bw162

    @bw162

    11 ай бұрын

    You will but it won’t be without pain. Find a way to ice it frequently during the day and do not sit for longer than 30-45 minutes without moving around.

  • @dianeseverino5590

    @dianeseverino5590

    6 ай бұрын

    Sorry, I just saw this. I'm a teacher in an elementary school. This is started back on December 7, 2021. Long story short, I was on the ground and a student ran out of the classroom. When I got up I twisted my knee.

  • @dennismartin2882
    @dennismartin28822 ай бұрын

    I'm 72 and 12 weeks post up and have numbness along the outside of my shin down to the underside of my toes, however when I touch my toes they feel ok, is this normal?

  • @user-pv9tp3yz7i
    @user-pv9tp3yz7i8 ай бұрын

    I am now 8 months after total knee replacement and recently I feel like the knee has shifted. Is that possible.

  • @soniarodriguez8377
    @soniarodriguez83776 ай бұрын

    On my 7th months

  • @harryfong9829
    @harryfong982911 ай бұрын

    Hi Tony, its been year and half with mine right TKR, struggling with arthrofibrosis, ortho surgeon said continue with PT. Mine ROM is good 0 with extension and 120 for flexions. Struggle with stiff walking, any suggestions?

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    0 and 120 is really not bad. How damaged was your knee before surgery?

  • @harryfong9829

    @harryfong9829

    11 ай бұрын

    it was bone on bone right knee, medial side. Ortho surgeon said mine ROM is good, no need for invasive procedure. He said in the old days, if patient , has stiff knee caused by scar tissue, surgeon would do surgery to remove scar tissue and closed the wound. Few months later, scar tissue returns, patient gets frustrated. Surgeon said continue PT, he estimates 2 to years to resolve. I am doing PT, I am frustrated and discouraged. I have reactive depression, surgeon said this is common among joint replacements patients. Tony, can you do a video on arthrofibrosis, and how PT can help patients with stiff knee caused by scar tissue. Thank you.

  • @nearaeac1
    @nearaeac110 ай бұрын

    Great videos. I am 66 yrs old and TKR on my left knee. I’m in my 3rd month of recovery. Pain is pretty much gone. I have stiffness at times. I’m walking normally and been out of PT since the 7 wk marker. Range off motion was good at that point (131 degrees ). Im doing leg presses twice a week and still stretching and doing leg lifts. My left leg was quite a bit weaker than my right before surgery from years of pain because of loss of cartilage in my knee. The only thing I notice is the new Knee does buckle forward sometimes when I’m walking. I’m hoping that will improve as my leg gets stronger. It is nice not having the pain I used too.

  • @rhondellbennett1550

    @rhondellbennett1550

    9 ай бұрын

    You seem to be one of the more blessed that was spoken of after TKR. I'm scheduled in a week. Praying for better results 🙏.

  • @barrysmith8193
    @barrysmith81933 ай бұрын

    Watched and taken notes and realized that my non surgery leg will get no physical muscle support. I’ve ridden my mountain bike on a stationary frame for 30 minutes 6 days a week. From surgery day on my non surgery leg will get no work out. How do I stop my muscle fitness in the good leg from declining. I’m 76 and in top level fitness. My base line BP is 115/70 and my blood glucose base line is 96. I am very critical about any processed foods and consume zero sugar in any form. I have no arthritis or brain fog. I do not want to loose what I have gained for the last 25 years. Please comment.

  • @tonyatorres8491
    @tonyatorres84919 ай бұрын

    I am at 5 weeks out and just got on the cane. I have severe reactions to pain killers so the only medication I take is blood thinner ( baby aspirin) which upsets my stomach every afternoon. No other meds after day 3 and no opioids at all. My PT keeps getting angry because I am not on her schedule, still swelling (wearing compression socks), and only at 97 degrees. My biggest issue now is sitting in a chair or car for more than 35 minutes is really painful. Is there anything I can do to help with that?

  • @kevinkiss3340

    @kevinkiss3340

    6 ай бұрын

    Keep icing. I m at 5 weeks and still ice every day.

  • @annapoornipb7977
    @annapoornipb797711 ай бұрын

    I had 4 months after my bilateral knee replacement. I have numbness in my left knee and in leg. I am doing up and down stairs, but it is very difficult for me to do the stairs without the railings support. How much time will need to achieve the strength to climb the stairs independently and what are the excercises?

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Honestly, gaining strength takes time. Lots of time.

  • @annapoornipb7977

    @annapoornipb7977

    11 ай бұрын

    @@totaltherapysolutionsThank u Dr, 🙏I am doing walking and the excercises. But let me know which excercises should I do to get strength for stairs climbing?

  • @patricialynnmoore
    @patricialynnmoore11 ай бұрын

    3 1/2 months after TKR right knee - swelling since the first day, lost any range of motion gained due to severe injury to top of right foot that includes major swelling, massive bruising etc. Can’t go to Physical Therapy anymore because I can’t walk and can’t drive. Stuck in bed without help. I live alone.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Sorry to hear that. What happened to your foot? Is it still injured? When it heals you could ask your surgeon about an arthroscopic lysis and manipulation for your knee.

  • @patricialynnmoore

    @patricialynnmoore

    11 ай бұрын

    @@totaltherapysolutions Thank you for your reply. I value your insights regarding Total Knee Replacement and the free online exercise tutorials you have created. My foot was unfortunately in the wrong place at the wrong time. A standard American walker was nearby and tipped to falling on top of my foot. They seem to be light weighted devices but this took my foot out. I’m not certain why it caused such a severe injury but the medics came out to look at it to determine if it was broken. Since I must care for myself with ice and elevation, it will take a bit longer to relieve the swelling and bruising. Living by yourself with no assistance has its disadvantages. I will take your suggestion to speak to my surgeon. Thank you for your genuine concern. Take care.

  • @juwu9956

    @juwu9956

    11 ай бұрын

    My thoughts are with you Patricia my lovely.From Julie in England.

  • @frankreynolds4547

    @frankreynolds4547

    11 ай бұрын

    Yes I'm 3.5 months and on my own. It's really tough, and it was like that for me but week 12 was the gradual turning point in my recovery and the positivity starts to return. It's very reassuring to read others experiences because it lets you know that although you haven't been lucky enough to be one of quickest you will get there. Good luck from England as well.

  • @juwu9956

    @juwu9956

    11 ай бұрын

    @@frankreynolds4547 Hi Frank, I too live alone. I’m exactly 9 weeks in from the operation on the left knee. I’m still limping though because I’ve developed a painful right foot, like Patricia. I’m still at the point where I’m thinking why on earth have I chosen to do this?

  • @shaybee6893
    @shaybee689310 ай бұрын

    I'm 2 weeks post op and still my ankle hurts all the way around and my foot throbs and hurts like a toothache. Drives me nutso!!!!!

  • @johnburke-yu9pt

    @johnburke-yu9pt

    10 ай бұрын

    I am 12 days out and have slmost constant pain. Nights are an ordeal. But, I am using less narcotic to reduce pain--maybe 1-3 times a day only. Tylenol 500 X 2 seems to be almost as good as Oxycodone. Each day the knee feels very slightly better.

  • @rebeccagee9243
    @rebeccagee924311 ай бұрын

    I had bkr on 6/12 and i just enrolled in lap swimming program at local pool. I might be pushing it but need it to get my sanity back.

  • @totaltherapysolutions

    @totaltherapysolutions

    11 ай бұрын

    Swimming is amazing and pushing it is better than not pushing it 🤣

  • @radhasridharan1892
    @radhasridharan18922 ай бұрын

    I'm 5weeks post opt very painful

  • @thelittleladyrona1982

    @thelittleladyrona1982

    2 ай бұрын

    Me to. I keep asking myself why is my right knee so stiff, the hotness on the side of it aches and still not walking correctly.

  • @doreen4165

    @doreen4165

    Ай бұрын

    I'm 6 weeks in I still have a horrible tight feeling around my leg above my knee like tight rubber bands around my leg I'm about to give up it's so painfully annoying . I've told my family to really think twice about this surgery. I fear I'll have no quality of life now.

  • @thelittleladyrona1982

    @thelittleladyrona1982

    Ай бұрын

    ​@@doreen4165: Sorry to hear that Doreen. I hope you feel better. I know the feeling and deal with it everyday.

  • @davidlamborghini9108
    @davidlamborghini910811 ай бұрын

    Going to three years already and i still have issues with knee buckling numbness and some pain on and off still in therapy the buckling has made me fall a few times so i live with a certain brace that locks in place and i have to wear it everyday it does get stressful once in a while

  • @emanalsiniy5844
    @emanalsiniy584410 ай бұрын

    I started to drive my car after 4 weeks postoperatively

  • @robertberry7682

    @robertberry7682

    8 ай бұрын

    I've still got staples, 12 days and I'm driving..

  • @user-ie3fl1uy7v
    @user-ie3fl1uy7v3 ай бұрын

    I'm a 66 year old widower living alone, threw the walker away at 8 days,no cane ,pain was bad for 2 weeks but weened off meds started working on recovery at 10 days 7 weeks out and doing great, PS giving the Lord Jesus Christ all the credit

  • @rdwakefield

    @rdwakefield

    Ай бұрын

    Amen!!! Philippians 4:13 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

  • @patriciakent1298
    @patriciakent12988 ай бұрын

    Will I be able to fly at 4 weeks?

  • @theSD7

    @theSD7

    6 ай бұрын

    Are you?

  • @debraschepers9381
    @debraschepers93814 күн бұрын

    Lets talk about rehab no giving me therapy n now another surgery maybe.

  • @Buttercup312
    @Buttercup3122 ай бұрын

    Seriously...whTs wrong with using a cane for a few months? It offers support

  • @doreen4165

    @doreen4165

    Ай бұрын

    I'm six weeks in and still use my walker because of the pain

  • @Buttercup312

    @Buttercup312

    Ай бұрын

    @@doreen4165 absolutely nothing wrong with that....this isn't a race ... its about your healing and safety...and the rest of your life.

  • @vgipson
    @vgipson2 ай бұрын

    Lies all lies