I thought I’d put some thoughts post op-
I’m now 5 1/2 weeks post operative and I’d say 5 weeks was the turning point for me. I can also see that if I don’t write it down I’ll forget how it was the first month.
I was totally not prepared for how painful it would be and my expectations for myself were way off. I’ve been told by many people that everyone is different. I did outpatient and I’m happy with that decision. I also thought I wouldn’t need the pain medication more than a few days and boy was I totally wrong on that.
I didn’t get the ice machine but did order two large PT grade ice packs from Amazon (recommended by both surgeon and PT). They have worked great. I borrowed a walker and I used it. I used it at night even once I switched to cane for day. I’m now totally off the cane. I borrowed a toilet riser chair and that has been great. I don’t want to even think about how hard that would have been. Another great item was suction hand rails that I put in the shower. One thing I hadn’t considered was where I would shower. I have a stand alone shower but it has a good sized step in.
I’m glad I had been doing PT prior to the surgery. It helped me to already be familiar with a lot of the exercises and to have strength where I would need it. I also felt it was helpful to already have a relationship with the PT. I’d been seeing him for several years for different things and I knew he was good. The at home PT also was great. They both are on the younger side and I think they both were optimistic and pushed me beyond what my mind thought I could do. I’m diligent on doing my home program. It hurts but it’s necessary to get where I want to be.
It became very clear to me day 1 that I needed a caregiver. My husband was great but even he got over it. It’s hard to ask for help but not seem bossy. He is very happy I’m finally driving. I had my driving knee done and I wasn’t ready to drive till 4 weeks. My Dr, PT and husband felt I could drive earlier but I went with what I felt comfortable with. I still am only going short distances.
I still ice multiple times a day. I’m using Tylenol and celebrex. Gait is looking better. My ability to bend is great, straightening is harder. Sleep is still uncomfortable.