Snuggs knee replacement thread.

[Silverfoot]

Once you have the replacement, one always have to be aware of infections. So something as simple as going to the dentist requires taking anti-biotics before and after. It's a precaution. And definately something that you should talk to your DR. about.

Also remember I had mine in say 2000, alot has changed and improved since then. My understanding is it may be a lot easier than what I went thru, which was being sliced from mid thigh to about mid shin.

Also, I used a lot of vitamin E on the scar and it really has gone from nasty to almost not noticable.

[Snugglebunny]

Ojmy I don't think they cut you like that any more. Why are you prone to infection though??

My mom asked me to ask you hehe -
What exercises she should do now before surgery? Post?

[Silverfoot]

Your not prone to infection. You have to be careful that the knee doesn't become infected. So you tread carefully. A very nasty infection of the replacement area could force them to actually remove the replacement, clean-up the infection and redo the replacement. Not something that one wants to go thru.
Actually the only place I go to that I have to do the anti-biotics is the dentist. But lets say you got a deep cut, to be safe you call your doc and he'll make sure you get some antibiotics. It's a safety precaution

Make sure your opposite leg is in good shape, you'll overrely on it a lot. Honestly even just walking is a good thing. After it is all about flexing the replaced knee. Getting flexibility and range of motion is what it's all about.

My understanding is the new computer directed machines can actually move the muscles around allowing the replacement to be put in without my type of scar. I've also read were they really expect it to take only about 6 weeks for normal type walking. So don't go by my hospital experience, it's the rehab thats the key. Working on the flexibilty, full range of motion. Walking, stationary bike. Always ice down after working out to keep any swelling down that might want to occur. I know 3 other folks with them, 2 really worked the therapy, 1 couldn't take it. Guess who still has problems. Granted Iwas considered very young to get it done at the time. I was like 46. My problems came from old surgeries and a passion for football.

So pre, keep working on keeping your weight down and strenghten your good leg.
So post, walking, bicycle (staionary to start), make sure she's able to get the machine home that will keep flexing your knee, simple stretching, like toe touches and knee bends (boy was that fun) At the end of the day she'll feel a bit stiff, that will pass with time and keeping on the program. If she does it right she'll be glad she had it done, the pain a thing of the past. And keep the weight off

Oh, please don't go hyper on the infections, it's an important bit of info and something that really is rare. Just something you never ever want in the knee

[Snugglebunny]

She wants me to buy some machine that stimulates the muscles to help build strength,i'm not sure if its worth it. Thanks for all the info, I'll discuss it with her tonight !

[Lord of Shadows]

I believe the stimulator you are looking for is called a Tens unit (not sure that is how it is spelled, but sounds like Tens). It electronically stimulated muscles.

[Snugglebunny]

Originally Posted by Lord of Shadows

I believe the stimulator you are looking for is called a Tens unit (not sure that is how it is spelled, but sounds like Tens). It electronically stimulated muscles.

Do you know if its legit though?

[Lord of Shadows]

Yes...just did a search on google, and you can get one for about $100

[Gyvalor]

I have a tens unit and I wouldn't really think of it as something that stimulates the muscle for strenghth, but more of a deep massage.

[Silverfoot]

Can't see how it would hurt, she's definately going to be sore. Check with your doc though

[Lord of Shadows]

Originally Posted by Silverfoot

Can't see how it would hurt, she's definately going to be sore. Check with your doc though

*nods and agrees*