"In My Opinion . . ."
Dec. 5, 2001
A little less than a month ago, I went under the knife (technically under two knives) and had bilateral knee replacement surgeries. I came out with two brand-new knees. Getting both knees replaced at once is uncommon, however the hideous condition of my knees warranted the double surgeries. Recovery is quite painful and lengthy, so I'm still in the early stages, but I have begun to feel better and more able.
I do two or three rotations of flexing and strengthening exercises daily, and I do a few small chores to keep myself moving around. This week I was allowed out of the house for the first time--a great relief! (Cabin fever, even when you're in pain and constantly fatigued, is a hard thing, especially in the Pacific Northwest in winter.) I may look stupid pushing a wheeled walker around, but it sure is great to be moving and breathing fresh air.
Now I face the challenge of the long road to full recovery. It takes about a year to get 100% usage of new joints, although 80% recovery occurs by 6 months. I need to be patient with myself and keep up my exercises. There is so much swelling involved with all the muscles and connective tissues and ligaments, and it takes months before all those parts finally stop swelling from exertion. (Reusable ice packs have become my best buddies, and I have four of them in the freezer.)
Overall, I'm pleased with my progress, as are all my caretakers. I am the poster child for bilateral total knee replacements in the eyes of the hospital, an honor I enjoy. I'm so competitive! I have two 8-10 inch scars down the middles of my knees, but I don't intend to parade around in a bathing suit or shorts anyway, so I'm not too concerned. I'll just stroll around happily in less showy styles.