This question is asked by many patients and may be applied to many joints such as ankles, hands, and elbows for the weeks following the initial injury or surgical intervention.
Edema is the physiological response to a chemical imbalance within the cells and tissues of the body. This chemical imbalance may be caused by a mechanical stress put on the tissue (twisted ankle or surgical intervention to the tissue) or a pathological process going on within the body (infection, gout, etc). Swelling is the term we use to describe the abnormal enlargement or protuberance we visualize as the result of edema or excessive fluid within a body cavity or joint region.
The above question references swelling as a result of mechanical stress. In fact, this patient had a total knee replacement which involves significant mechanical stress to the entire knee complex. If you don’t believe me check out this video on total knee replacement:
While the healing process of the injured tissue may have occurred and the weakened tissue is back to full tensile strength, there still may be swelling which is activity dependent. The typical scenario reported by the patient is that my knee is normal size in the morning and then by end of day it is swollen, painful, and tight to the degree where I am limping again. As frustrating as this may be for the patient, it is normal to go through this sequence of no swelling in the morning and swelling to the point of functional deficits by the end of the day. How is this possible? Shouldn’t the swelling go away and stay away? The answer to that is no. It is not that easy and the recovery period from any injury is always longer than you think it should be.
When an injury occurs, various tissues are mechanically stressed and thus weakened. Let’s take the total knee replacement noted above. The initial insult to the tissue starts when the skin and soft tissue is intruded with the incision and separation of tissue and muscle to expose the actual knee joint. The bone is mechanically stressed with a drill, saw, and hammer as noted in the video and the end result is major tissue disruption with subsequent swelling, which can become problematic if not controlled with ice, elevation, compression, and muscle activation.
As noted in a previous blog, (E is for elevation), elevating just 3 tablespoons of fluid within the knee joint will inhibit the quadriceps muscle from contracting at a normal intensity and without good quad strength all functional tasks involving weight bearing are difficult. Following any mechanical injury or surgical intervention there is swelling and subsequent muscular weakness and stiffness within the joint involved. Even if the cellular structure of the tissue has healed, the patient may still have a muscular strength loss and the muscles do not absorb gravitational forces efficiently or propel the body through space with power.
Your body is like a car and the muscles are the shock absorbers in that luxury car. If you have weak muscles, your body does not move efficiently and thus more stress is put on the tissues, which then results in swelling. To regain strength, you must push your intensity of exercise and everyday activity, yet there will be a transitional period of time when you don’t have enough strength to tolerate all those stresses and guess what, that is when the body responds with swelling.
You need to keep pushing your activity every day and you will reach that threshold when you have the strength to tolerate all the stresses of exercise and then your swelling will resolve. Keep moving and controlling your swelling with ice. You will make it through that phase when you keep pushing into the yellow zone of the traffic light. Your knee (or any other joint) will return to a normal appearance but it takes time and hard work to push through that discomfort/swelling phase. When you are in question about your swelling and exercise intensity, ask your physical therapist for advice.
If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you!
Thank you so much for posting this explanation for post-surgical swelling after a total knee replacement. At eight weeks out I started experiencing increased swelling after having been at a somewhat “normal” level for about two weeks. My immediate thought was that I had pushed too far in my increasing exercise routine, but resting did not help. I know realize I need to keep going and ice, ice, baby!
Ice, ice, baby! For sure! 🙂
I had both knees replaced April 16, 2019. Or.. 8 months ago. The swelling is still a problem. It tends to keep my left knee from bending properly thus causing me to drag this leg because if pain. The doc said give it a year to heal. I try to ride my recumbent bike at least 4 x’s a week. I dud forget about the ice. I will go back and elevate and ice and see how that works. I am 70 yrs old. But I’m nit sure that matters.
No it doesn’t I am 82 and had two knee replacement surgeries but the swelling went down in a reasonable time. I broke the femor in the same leg and that was over two months ago. I go to PT 3 times a week leg is swollen and so is the knee. The scar tissue is the problem keep going to PT and elevating and icing. And use pain meds to get thru the tough parts. 😊
i disagree on the pain meds Mary. That’s how I got hooked on codeine, morphine etcetera. Just grin and bear it. NO pain meds; the pain lets you know when you should slow down. I am a retired PT by the way!!!!
l had my knee replacement 2015. l fluid no doctor will not remove fluid from knee still in pain it 5 year now.
It’s 5 weeks 5 day since my TKR
I am also on immune suppression
My wound has been opening during my Physio my knee is swollen and can only bend to 70 degrees if I push past this the pressure to the front of my knee is at a maximum any one had similar
Hi I’m also autoimmune with lupus and crest disease and I actually have had a lot of swelling my mobility actually did tap out I pushed it to the limit and I was able to get the Bender at 145 and and I’m at a 3゚ on a straight leg leg but my GAIT is all over the place and I still swell up a lot and Have problems walking I have the strength to a certain point but it’s hard to go up scissors style or normal style upstairs I’m 8 weeks out today and I had a part where it wasn’t healing around the stitch so they reopened it but it is still opening itself and leaking liquid very frustrating I don’t know if I’m not Healing that fast or my autoimmune is pushing me back But I’m getting ready to do my 2nd knee in 3 weeks and I’m very worried will I be able to push back or will I have another lupus flare And be covered in hives again who knows good luck I know what you’re going through
Did icing help. I had surgery 7 weeks ago, everything was fine and swelling was going down. All of a sudden today – need is 2 inches bigger then the other knee. Can’t call the doctor until Monday.
sorry – knee is 2 inches bigger then the other one.
Hello, God Bless us all, I wear compression stocking anyway, but thry will keep swelling, its been five month after total knee surgery,you have to do the exercise daily, I have a excercise bike, walk, ice,My knee is just very sore now,elevate,massage,gently, pray, I have arthiritis rheumatoid,you go to your doctor if you have a concern that bother you badly,that is how Handle, try to be patient.God Bless
I believe the knee after total knee surgery, your knee is larger, the knee is hard in the middle, and I dont think it is all swelling, seen picture of the part in the knee, its large,I am excercising, bike, walking,wearing compression stocking, most of all praying, considering rheumatoid, the drilling, takes time.Almost six months. Sore on the side of knee, sharp, stabbing pain, probably nerve pain. God Bless
Hi Aarchlice,
Rheumatoid arthritis is so different than what I had before my TKR, osteoarthritis. So in my case the surgeon removed all the arthritis spurs and any remaining cartilage in both knees.
Stay strong Alice!
Joe
It does seem ice is the solution. And the Berg Polar Ice Cube machine helps a lot. Ice ice and more darn ice. My knee looks almost normal, about an inch bigger. If you don’t know about this machine, ask the physical therapist. Best of luck to us!
Use frozen water bottles instead of ice have some extra to switch
Is your swelling visible? My second knee looks larger than the other one, but I see/feel the prosthesis. My surgeon says it is internal swelling, that it will go down and be the same size. Does that sound right?
I’m having this same problem. Feels to big. My Tibia plate is really pushing out, causing alot of pain by the end of the day…im 5 weeks from my replacement. Still pain in the evenings. And tightness that never goes away.
I had my TKR on August 18th the leg I had the TKR is hugh compared to my other leg and I get stabbing pains often
But my biggest worry is that my calf on the leg with the TKR is very swollen and hard as a rock I can push on it with my finger and the indention will stay for awhile then slowly come back out. And it is hurting more now then a few weeks after the surgery. And starting about 2 weeks ago the joints in my arms started hurting so bad as to where I can hardly pick up my coffee cup and now every joint in my body is hurting so bad that I can’t even sleep…I am to the point were I am scared now that something is definitely wrong. Has anyone elase see 34pm
Hi, I’m recovering from Total knee replacement 6 1/2 weeks ago. I was doing great after the first 2 wks. But this last week, swelling all through knee, calf, and foot! It is so tight. And my foot and ankle hurts and tingles from being so full of fluid. I’ve been exercising and walking on it. Then I get home and ice and elevate. I hope it gets better. Thanks. Jody.
If you are having swelling in your calf (and esp redness) after knee replacement, go to the ER. You could have a blood clot. Swelling of the entire limb is not normal and blood clots are dangerous and too common after a knee replacement to be ignored. Calf and ankle swelling is not what he is talking about here. Always take calf swelling seriously.
My leg is swollen from thigh to ankle 3 months after a meniscus repair. I told my doctor and he said the surgery was a base hit and not a home run. Should I be concerned? The pain is excruciating and I tolerate pain very well. Thank you!
Hi Heather – We recommend you discuss this with your health care provider. He/She will be able to provide you with the best, most personalized care plan and advice based on your symptoms and the surgery you had.
Jody, I have the same thing. Did you get a resolution-SCARY!
I’m four months pre opt…. my knee itself is great. No pain… swelling at times…
But I am having pain in 1 spot about 4-6 inches above on my femur… I’m nervous about it.
I just had a total knee replacement 1 week ago, 2-3 days out my leg swelled from my thigh to my foot. I returned back to my doctor he said there is no infection and looks great. I’m concerned about my entire leg being swollen and I have tightness and tingling in my leg. I ice it and elevate it as well as wear my compression stockings. Is this normal after total knee surgery ?
My name is George and I have a total replacement October 13 today’s the 25th and everything you mentioned sounds normal just hang in there do you PT Ace and watch a pace I hope your walk and move around good luck and God bless
I am starting my 2nd week after a total knee replacement. Having Rheumatoid arthritis for 40 years many of my joints especially my two shoulders are flaring as a result of the surgery trauma right now. If any others are experiencing joint issues beside just where your knee surgery was you may want to contact your rheumatologist or family doctor too. This is my second Knee replacement . Keep it moving in bed almost constantly at least doing butt squeezes and ankle lifts up and down to keep scar tissue from forming and growing in the wrong direction and to hopefully keep blood clots from forming ! They will kill you !!! I almost didn’t make it when I had my hip replaced. I ordered 6 Perfect Remedy cold therapy gel packs from Amazon and keep them always in the freezer ready to preform the constant freezing cold I need ! Instant pain relief especially if using Norco which is mixed with Tylenol every 4 hours and two or three ice bags every four hours too. Move and ice 🧊 you will get thru it just like I have on all my past joint surgeries . Bless you ♥️
Yes, your situation is normal. I had a TKR 8 weeks ago and the tight feeling is now gone..
I had total knee surgery 4 weeks ago and from the knee down to the top not bottom of my foot I can hardly touch it. Is this normal. Also my knee is stiff and swollen is that normal.
I had TKR 7 was ago. I still have an area on the side of my knee and down the shin area that hurts to touch. I believe it is the nerves still healing in those areas and over time it will get better.
If you have pain your Doctor should be prescribing pain meds. You have a legitimate condition. It’s tough to go for physical therapy without pain meds. Don’t over do with the ice. It’s a slow recovery. A really good physical therapist should be able to answer your questions regarding your surgery.
Sorry to hear about your pain but my experience was that after 3 wks I got the blank stare from dr about pain meds! I felt guilty asking for anything even though it turned out I had pseudo gout in knee fluid causing awful pain!!!!! Be very angry and assertive if you are treated that way. They don’t get it and are afraid of the DEA!
I had knee replacement in May 2019, after returning to work, my knee has been swollen so much. At the end of the day, I can’t hardly walk. I barely have time elevate my feet during the day.
Hey I had RT Knee TKA Nov 20th 2019….all went beautifully. Ni e days later slipped and fell and ruptured my quad, and had to have emergency surgery to repair the quad…. 8 weeks out from that surgery and swelling was HORRIBLE until I started taking Turmeric Curcumin capsules…supports joint health,injury recovery(reduces swelling big time)& aids in digestion….has helped a great deal and you all should try it if still experiencing swelling.
Hi! I was wondering how much turmeric you took and how many times a day? Thank you
Does the icing help? I had knee surgery for an open fracture in August and my knee is still swollen. I’m able to move it, I’ve even been running, but the injured knee is quite a bit larger than the other one.
Hi Rachel, Sorry to hear you’re still having issues after surgery. We highly recommend you talk with your orthopedic specialist or physical therapy experts about this as they’ll be able to give you the best answers for your situation. Hope you’re back in top form soon! Cheers, Cheryl
Ice was my freind. I took took vet little pain meds. Just worked at moving it then ice many times day and when I say move I don’t mean just walk like to the bathroom but going I and down some steps, bending it as far as I could with weights on and straighten it with weights. It is work but well worth it.
The outcome of this type of surgery is really up to the individual. Physical therapy hurts and it takes a lot of time and patience, but if you do everything they tell you to do you will come back great. It is a matter of 6 to 18 months but so worth the effort.
It sure is, Rhonda!
Be careful over bending it at the first two three weeks. Just start easy with slow movements and many lying in bed tightening the thigh muscles and muscles surrounding the knee plus keeping doing approximately 500 ankle lifts each day according to my surgeon at Stanford Hospital last week to keep blood 🩸 and muscles moving to prevent blood clots and to strengthen leg. Ice ice ice night and day ice ice ice !
Yes just what I needed to hear encouraging words
I needed thst. THANKS
I am 3 months out from a revision to a total knee. Swelling is extensive. Can continued exercise still work? Should I be concerned?
HI SHARON
I HAD A TKR ON MY RIGHT KNEE DEC. 2017.. I HAVE WALKED AND EXCERCISED EXTENSIVLY BUT I HAVE QUITE A BIT OF WATER ON THE FRONT OF THE KNEE. THE DR. DRAINED IT 3 WEEKS AGO BUT CAME BACK THE WAY IT WAS A WEEK LATER..
VERY FRUSTRATING.. I HAD NO ISSUES WITH MY LEFT KNEE WHEN I HAD THAT DONE IN 2012.. DR. SAYS IT WILL ” EVENTULLY GO AWAY ” WELL WE WILL SEE.. HANG IN THERE..
I had a total knee replacement Jan. 17. I did better day 2-3 then today because my swelling is horrible. I have been icing 20 minutes every 1-2 hours but today day3 is the worst. Doing the excerises but the swelling is caused limiting range of motion. Felt unsteady on my steps. I get muscle spasms if I elevate more then 1 pillow. Was given flexeril, oxy 5mg, and ultram/Tylenol 75/325. What more can I do?
2- 500gm Tylenol & 1 -800gm of Motrin did great for me
I had meniscus repair on Oct.1st 2020. I have been suffering from knee swelling and my doctor drained it twice but it keeps coming back. First time was a lot of blood drained, second time more fluid mixed with blood. He wants to see if after another week it doesn’t go away, he wants to go back in and see if a little capillary might be nicked. Im not too happy about having this procedure done again, but I can’t live like this. Its so tight around my knee that my leg feels unstable.
After 2 meniscus surgeries on the left knee, I am 100 times worse off than before. I have been retaining fluid in the shin right below my knee. By the end of the day it’s like a water balloon under my skin. I’ve lost all strength in my left leg and still have extreme pain. I My muscles are beginning to atrophy even after completing PT twice. When I went back to the surgeon, he gave me a shot of cortisone and said I would be alright. I am so afraid of losing my ability to walk or ending up with a blood clot.All this over a simple meniscus repair that had to be done twice. Help somebody
I’m currently going through the exact same thing, now Dr is saying I should have a total knee replacement, they took off 70cc of fluid yesterday
Kathy I also had a knee scope and my knee is still swollen, my entire leg is still swollen ,and the doctors aren’t sure what’s going on …
They sent me to do ultrasound on my veins and they were fine , so now five months later , I am scheduled for another MRI to look at my knee and leg to see if what’s going on if anything, or if something happened during surgery that would’ve caused this edema .. I have never had Edema, and it didn’t show up until after the new scope. Some mornings I wake up and there is none but other days I take my sock off and it’s like my leg is twice as fat as it should be around my ankle where the sock impression is. Let me know if you ever found out an answer about your problem. Thanks
That’s exactly my predicament. Knee replacement surgery on my right knee three months ago. I almost have hundred percent movement but the swelling is keeping me from the other 5%. Yesterday it was twice the size of my other knee.. My ankle isn’t swollen though but my calf and above my knee very swollen. Exercise? Not sure what to do.
Keep up with the ice at least 3 times a day and do your exercises. That has worked well for me. I am 7 weeks out.
My doctor did my knee cut from side of the knee and very adamant about not using ice, only little heat. I wonder why no ice. I will ask when I go to doctor for 6 week checkup. Knee is still stiff and swollen. Would you know the answer to this question?
I had my TKR on the 20th December, 1st 2 weeks all went well. Excercise & pain management were perfect then wham, the swrlling hit me. Serious swelling from my toes to my groin. At timed it felt like the skin on my toes was splitting. Kept hitting the cryowater cuff, 20 minutes wait the hour back on. In between fighting the ROM excercises. Went on for 2 weeks then i had a hospital visit, within 40 minutes having scans for DVT. Nothing found, told to carry on. Nothing changed for weeks finally demended to see surgeon sent for more DVT scans, all clear again but told no physio until swelling is under control. Got them to agree to some strength work & walking waist deep in my local pool. Seven weeks later still struggling with swelling & stiffness but the swelling is local to the knee now. Can do lots of bending excercise & get around 90 degrees, but walking my knee just blows out in a few minutes. I get a tennis ball lump top left on the outside of my right knee. Tendon above the knee is tight & sore. Struggling with strength in my thigh as my quad muscle will not activate as my knee refuses to allow me to get it straight. I also have this thick elastic / gluey feeling in my knee all around my knee cap ( Anyone else have this feeling) At times it makes my knee cap feel like it will break the kneecap due to pressure on it. So every day i do 2 hours of strength work including rest time, and an hour in the pool just walking, with minimal progress at all. Surgeon told me he has never seen this before & does not know what to suggest. He has sought advice from other consultants who also are lost. Only suggestion was a previous broken leg had left behind vascular circulation issues, i broke the same leg in 4 places & had a bone graft 30 years ago. I can only tell you that the pool has been my saviour, 40 minutes walking in cool water helps withe movement. Although this evening all pools in the UK have closed due to the Corona virus, has left me distraught but i will continue my fight against the swelling. But if anyone can advise if they got this this sticky mass feeling in thier knee i would be most grateful. Ian
Ian,
I had my right knee replaced 2/18/20. My surgeon instructed me to use a CPM machine 6 hours a day, for flexion. I got excessive swelling!! About 2 weeks in, I got a horrible painful band feeling across the front of my knee. There is so much pressure on my patella! It forces me to walk in a peg leg gait! Been going to PT 3 times a week with no improvement.My flexion is at 108. Extension at -3. I found a blog called Bonesmart. They recommend no formal PT. Just daily activities. I was apprehensive about stopping PT. Well, I finally realized that my PT is causing all this internal swelling that is causing this! Your doctor should be telling you that this is fairly common!! I am icing, resting,and taking Tylenol 4 times a day. No more PT! It’s not helping at all! It’s worsening my problems!! Please rest and ice and elevate! I know how discouraging this is. Please advocate for yourself!!
Ian, I am 12 weeks out from total knee replacement. I know what you are speaking of – to me it feels like a tight rubber ban around my knee. I have started to go for acupuncture and so far that seems to have lessened it. The acupuncture also takes away the tightness in the surrounding muscles. There is also something called dry needling which can be done by some Physical Therapists. This helps break up the scar tissue. I live in the states in California and here only acupuncturists are allowed to do it. You might look into it where you are.
The sticky feeling is sometimes how adhesions are described Has the lateral knee tennis ball bump been aspirated to CK if it’s a seroma?
Ian, I’d be interested to learn what part of the UK you’re in. Also, have you been able to arrange any formal physio support.
I’m on my second replacement for my left knee, the first one having lasted 17 years. However this one has been fraught with problems from the start. I now feel as though I’ve been abandoned and four weeks in I’m still struggling with movement and swelling. Recovery was put back a bit as a result of a pulmonary embolism but I should now be able to move around freely and not be so swollen. Any tips from you or anyone would be useful.
I have been told to walk like you are skipping. Get your knees up and walk! Good luck!😊
I am 8 weeks post op but flexion went from straight to -10 because my inner quad muscle was not activating at all . Got some different exercises to add to all the others I am doing
But swelling is an issue for me still when I am on my leg too much the swelling affects my ankle too . I do hydro as well as walking and exercise but physio said cannot do it all the same day
Knee just feels extremely tight all the time and I think my surgeon gave me unrealistic time frames . I am 55 and fit and quite strong do Pilates and play golf walking up to 3 times a week but I feel like my progress is slow because he said I would be back to work and golf after 6/8 weeks !! I don’t think that helps your mental state of mind
Easy just Goggle excuses after knee replacement
Drink more water, sleep with bottom of bed raised ,so feet above heart, ice 🧊 constantly not just every 20 mins but all night …or all day and night when you are sitting or laying down to rest or from pain. This is my 3rd knee surgery. I’m in my 2nd week and it’s hell but already improving thanks to 10 or 20 mg Hydrocone – Acetaminophen , which is like Tylenol and Norco combined . Every 4hours plus two or three cold therapy frozen gel packs on and around the painful swollen knee all the time !!! Ice is a miracle 🧊 🥲🥶 ☃️❄️ 8 Ice packs from Amazon. I keep in freezer always frozen and ready for instant pain relief ! Just had my knee replaced at Stanford Hospital 🏥 in Pleasanton Ca .2 weeks ago . Trust me I’m already starting to notice less swelling and although,still in pain I’m now able to walk better and longer and bend my knee more . Yea !! Keep at it ! 😊
Hi Sharon. I am 9 weeks out from a revision of my left knee. First knee never got beyond 70 degrees of flexion. At 7 months I found a doc who discovered my patella tracking laterally. So a second surgery performed 9weeks ago. It has been an incredibly painful recovery. I am now at 95 degrees of flexion. My new pt organization is amazing. They suggest 5 minutes of some stretching exercise every hour from morning till night. My favorite is my cheap st. bike to just push forward and back. At pt I can go all the way around forward and back. I describe my progress as glacially slow. I have days of so much swelling that I can hardly bend at all. The pain is at a 7-8. I feel like I could go crazy. Weekends are the worst. When I go to pt they encourage, explain, stretch, help my brain. I could not do this without them. Maintaining sanity is as hard as the healing. There are days I want to give up, but then I get about 5 hours of sleep and I start all over again. This is a marathon. I must constantly remind myself 6-12 months is normal.
OMG! I found someone like me!
I feel so alone going through this process, I had my revision done on January 30, 2020, my situation is very different then most, this was my 5th surgery on the same knee,
7 years ago I had a partial put in, (prior to that they did 3 other surgeries, they just could not figure out what was going on, so YES I waited 7 years to go back, crazy 7 years, PAIN, SWELLING, down right miserable,
FINALLY I could not take it anymore, made an appointment with this AMAZING dr, and he said that the “partial” needed to come out, basically ASAP!
So now 3 weeks into this, OMG!!!!! UGH!!! I know that we all heal differently and at different paces, but dear god, this is crazy.
It’s like push yourself don’t push yourself, go to PT….You don’t want to complain to much, I am not a complainer, maybe I should be, LOL
You Tell yourself its all going to be “ok” I ice 24/7……..The ice machine is awesome!!
I am ranting on & on, SORRY PEOPLE……
My husband has been amazing!!!!! He keeps track of my meds and tells me its ok, I am a darn tough person, but this TKR is wearing me down,
If there is anyone is going through this and has any suggestions PLEASE LET ME KNOW, Thanks a million
Hi Judy,
I am 1 week post op tkr of my right knee. I am SO swollen! I am icing numerous times a day, using a CPM machine for 4 to 5 hours and doing exercises as directed! I am perplexed as to what will improve my swelling and pain! It is so difficult to get much flexion because of the swelling. My PT says to move more! How much more can I do? I tried the cane today instead of my walker when I went out to PT. Big mistake! I was in horrible pain! Anyone have solutions for horrible swelling? I have been elevating my calves above my heart while sleeping. I feel so discouraged. I guess that’s the common thread here. My empathy to all the others going through this. It’s very difficult
I HAD A TKR JAN 10 20202 AND NOTICED SMOE BRUISING ON MY FOOT BY MY TOES AND A LITTLE SWELLING – DO YOU THINK THIS IS NORMAL 9 WEEKS OUT???
Yes I have the same had my revision in February still swollen twice it’s size Dr did text like a sonar it came back negative I’m in compression leg boots but not helping much it’s really getting me stressed out my doctor is trying his best hope yours gets better
Judy I just read your post. You are not alone. I had a total left knee and my leg straightened on May 14,2020. I have had terrible swelling ever since. I have had two surgical manipulations in the last five weeks. My range of motion was 55 degrees before the first manual manipulation. I am having PT five days a week and it is like medieval torture. My range of motion is now up to 98 degrees. But, I still have extreme swelling all the time. Don’t give up…….
Your are blessed to have a supportive spouse.
God bless !
I ran across your post. I’m 6 weeks out from a TKR. I can bend 90 degrees but still feel slight pain but plenty of stiffness. The therapist got me to 112 degrees once and 110 another. But why oh why can’t I do it afterwards ?!?! I tell myself it’s going to be ok… I pray… I ice..I exercise… I doubt… I get mad… I cry! When will I be better? I read the post and realize I’m not alone in my feelings and that helps. I hope. I believe it will get better. Sure wish I had been given heads up about the recovery. Thanks for listening.
Had this surgery on Feb.16, tonight is March 4? I use the machine to ice, or ice pads called pancakes for the TKR. This is difficult to say the least, but I plan on surviving this, right?I fell on my knee twice , but did no structural damage, I ice a whole lot.
Your not alone. I know what you mean. About wearing you down. I’m almost 4 weeks from sx and still do pt due to swelling. Hang in there. Your not alone
So unfair you should suffer like this ! Been there done that! You have a right to better pain control. Assert yourself!
Boy I get it. I’m 7 weeks out. One good PT session and the next day I’m swollen and have very little flexion. Ice and elevate all day. Also found out if I eat salty food. The next day is fat leg day. I have no luck with compression socks. They make My shin hurt and knee ache and everything above it swells. I faithfully do my exercises but can only get to about 109 degrees. Up to 117 at PT. IT is a marathon and I’ll getting tired and my horses miss me lol
So I’m not in this alone. Sounds like I will be icing my knee more. My knee is hurting alot today. And I had my third PT yesterday. Thank you for bringing light on this subject
I have the same thoughts because my knee is seven weeks postop and still swollen and warm and my flexion is not what it should be . I had my other knee done two years ago and didn’t have this big of a problem for seven weeks out so it was concerning to me . However I just saw the surgeon and he is completely fine and said it will go away . It is frustrating but I keep doing my physical therapy and icing my knee a couple times a day . I am glad to see that other people have the same issue and I am not the only one . Now I am curious to know if the people that have posted ….as more time has gone by if their knee has indeed gotten better .
I am in my 3rd week since surgery. My knee is swollen and hard to bend back to 90 degrees. My PT guy tells me if u don’t flex it back they Will have to go in and clean up scar tissue. I have gotten it back to 90° but with a lot of pain. He makes me feel like I’m not trying. I guess I just want to know I’m not the only one in this short period of time still in a lot of pain when exercising😞
I am in my third week post-op as well and struggling to reach 90 degrees without a lot of pain. My PT said not to worry about it. He gave me exercises to work on and he has talked about massage to help reduce swelling.
I am 4 1/2 weeks since my TKR. I just got to 91 degrees ROM yesterday. It took another PT to push my leg back to get to that. It felt like the bone was going to come through my upper leg. I do my exercises religiously and thought I was doing good but this ROM is making me sick. I don’t know what else I can do.
Hang in there, Nancy. Please do discuss your concerns with your PT and physician, and don’t underestimate the healing power of time and physical therapy.
I’m in my 4th week of recovery after a TKR. My knee is swollen,sometimes red and my degree of the bend of my knee is 80*and my surgeon finally put me on an anti- inflammatory pill,but my,knee and feet still swell after being up on them for long periods of time and after sitting for periods of time its swollen and stiff. When trying to do therapy exercises its hard and painful,and I only do what I can handle pain wise. Using ice packs have not helped with swelling but I continue to do it.and I’ve even started alternating ice and heat.Not going thru another surgery.
I am in exactly the same place. Feeling frustrated.
The back of my knee hurts where I bend it I had surgery about 2 weeks ago everything was fine until I woke up yesterday and I would be walking a long and boom it’s like someone hit me in my knee went to the doctor he wasn’t 2 concerned
I am three weeks in after my Tkr and i cry in every PT session. Its so sore. Bending and the scar tissue massage kills me. I cant lift my leg as my quads are to weak. So frustrating!!!!!
I have the same problems can’t bend pass 90 it’s been 3months It awful!!
Hi Michelle,
I just wanted you to know you are not alone and what you are feeling is very common. I am 3 weeks out from a total knee replacement of my right knee. I continue to have swelling of the knee with poor range of motion especially in the evening. I have also been plagued with night time muscle spasms. I have found wearing my compression stocking 24/7 has helped with some of the swelling. I have also made note that if I do many small stretches through out the day to encourage my range of motion I see better results rather than trying to bend to an exstremely uncomfortable point in fewer times a day. Elevating your knee above the heart a few times a day while icing also encourages the swelling to improve.
Hang in there! this is a challenging recovery for most people. At the end of it all well worth everything we go through. Keeping you in my prayers.
Going through exactly what you are, so very frustrating and worrisome, like am i doing something wrong, not doing enough, doing too much??? 8 1/2 weeks after knee surgery.😭😭😭
I’m in my 8th week post op on fractured patella surgery. I’m struggling past 90 degrees. The pain is unbearable. A week ago my PT pushed my leg and an adhesion popped. I can’t even describe that pain. I actually cried. He said I should be further along with bending but the sharp pain is too much to handle. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one. Dr appointment on Monday. Not sure what he’s going to say.
Best wishes for a great appointment on Monday, Geraldine! 🙂
I had a total knee May 8th, 2019. Extreme swelling from day one to now! Swelling from thigh to toes. Calf feels like it is going to explode, they did 3 tests for blood clot, negative each time. No infection. No one knows what is wrong, I only can bend it at about 90 degrees. I had a MUS done 6/weeks out of surgery because knee wouldn’t bend pretty much at all. PT caused me extreme pain, and like I have read here, they made me feel like I wasn’t working hard enough, not so! MUS was manipulation under surgery, it helped for 3 days then knee stiff again.
I am 7 months out now and have NO answers. I am healthy, not overweight, not a diabetic, healthy heart. What’s wrong?
I sure pray I can get help, this is no way to live.
No one seems to know what’s wrong, including surgeon.
Any ideas would be appreciated.
I am 10 weeks after total knee replacement, swelling has not decreased sibce surgery, my knee is 2 inches larger than the other knee and 5 minutes into my walking or being on my feet, the swelling goes into my bakers cyst and also causes lots of pain behind knee, very difficult to walk because of swelling
Hi, I’m two days over 8 weeks post op for knee replacement, unfortunately due to COVID I haven’t been able to see a physiotherapist face to face and after reading some of these comment I feel I’m not pushing myself hard enough with the exercises I’ve been given.
My knee is still sore and sometimes it’s difficult to walk on even with a crutch, I just hope the new knee works and is successful.
I have got 120 degree bend and can straighten my leg but there are times when it doesn’t straighten without me manipulating it.
I am3 months after a knee replacement and last week I have a lot of pain in my knee swollen more and down my leg and ankle is swollen in a lot pain. Don’t know what to do
I think ice a lot, and elevate when you can. This is no fun!
I should’ve mentioned in my last comment that my surgery was January 14 seven weeks ago and my extension is only off by like minus one or two but my flexion is only up to 105° …..Whereas when I had my other knee done at this point I was already over 120° so this has become frustrating for me but like I said the surgeon says it will get better
I am 43 and had TKR two months ago, I just started experiencing ankle swelling this week which makes me feel like I have gone two steps backward since surgery. I struggled at first getting to 90 degrees and now at 115 but it’s been so hard. My dr has not being very sympathetic but I feel no one understands until you actually go thru this
Sara I totally understand! I had my LTK in 2015-it was hard, but progressed well. This time I am now almost 7 wks post-op of RTK and the pain is awful-especially around the knee cap. I can actively bend to 90 and passively bend to 102, but because I am so far out the surgeon wants a manipulation under anesthesia. So I guess I will see how this works. I’m scared! I think sometimes folks don’t understand the level of pain we have to endure to overcome this and since it’s a hinge joint the daily pain we have to go through to keep it moving and heal. Wishing you the best and know you are not alone!
It seems like the surgeon doesn’t care much about the results after they get your knee done. Mine was very unsympathetic after the Norco gave me hives and nausea. He told me to take Tylenol. I was so bruised and swollen for three weeks after surgery.. now I’m at 8 weeks, barely able to bend it 95° and still swelling all around my knee. It has a lot of pain but I am trying to bend it before I run out of time.
Best wishes to you for a better future.
I had Right Knee TKN in Sept 2018 . Made such good recovery that no PT was scheduled and was back to work in 5 weeks. I recently had my left knee replaced 7 weeks ago. I too am having a hard time with recovery at this point. I had about 4 weeks of in-home therapy and have had 2 weeks of out patient PT now (with another 4 weeks to go). From what my Doc has told me (and friends that have had multiple joint replacements) no two surgeries will heal the same. I am 7 weeks out from my last TKN (left knee) that I’m swelling and stiff with muscle spasms and could not get a full nights sleep. I was prescribe Flexeril but that didn’t help much. i started back to work this week, and believe it or not I’m sleeping thru the night. It might just be me, but knowing I was back to work (first week back almost 60 hours) kept my mind busy and I was mentally tired. All, I can say is hang in there, It will get better. Attitude goes a long way.
Had total knee replacement (right knee) October 29th 2018…still have little swelling and occasional warmness but that goes away …my right ankle occasionally swells …I’ve started icing and raising on pillow…it’s almost been a year UGH!!
very useful information thank you i have similar result at 6 week good then started faze “2” exercises then hard to bend walk and up down stairs thank for the lecture claude
8 weeks to and it’s so frustrated one day it’s normal next day it’s bigger than a balloon and I’m barely at 97% degree bending and it hurt bad every night just for me to walk it get so stiff after exercise or walking I am so frustrated with my physical therapist mad at me last Friday because she said I lost my straightness to inches
Meredith. Curious how your knee is doing. I am just three weeks out of TKR surgery and am experiencing swelling still on top of knee area.
I had meniscus surgery 16 months ago before being release there was no pulse at the bottom of my foot causing nurses to call the surgeon ,he said it was from a blocker an that it would be alright an release me ,my leg from the thigh all the way down to the foot was swollen for 4 months an longer causing me to have veinous insufficiency an lymphedema ,my great saphenous vein ended up collapsing 90 to 85 percent an I am am still suffering with a leg that is still in pain after two physical therapy sessions the first 12 weeks the second 8 weeks .I am still in a great amount of pain thigh, an the knee, the calf an the foot constantly stay swollen were I cant put any weight on my ankle or foot .I have been patient but I am at my wits end .I exercise an do my best to keep moving but have a hard time getting blood to my foot at night an my right testicle kills me , Where did it all go wrong Merrideth ,I just want to go back to work !!
I had an acl reconstruction and repair on a large tear on the meniscus.
3 weeks post op I have abit of stiffness on the knee and abit of swelling which gets abit painful when flexing the knee.
Been following the recovery program as prescribed and a few added muscle building exercises.
Lost a lot of muscle weight post op.
This has been helpful thanks .
I had a full knee replacement 4 months ago and above knee is still swollen okay first thing in morning but gets worse later and tight how much exercise on leg machine’s should I do .
Very upset that after six weeks my swelling is still here. I bike and walk but flexion is still a big problem. Any advice? I live on ice
Thanks for leaving your comment.I am the same
Thanks. I had ACL, Meniscus , Tendon Surgery and most swelling was gone after 3.5 weeks, by the 6.5 week checkup almost all was gone but I had fluid on the knee. Dr said perfectly normal. After another week and a half the fluid level had tripled around the knee.
I’m an RMT in Ontario. I encounter this post surgery swelling on a regular basis. I use a technique called Manual Lymph Drainage, it has been excellent at decreasing inflammation, pain and swelling.
It’s a very beneficial treatment before and after any type of surgery.
What is manual lymph drainage
Hi John – Here’s an entry about manual lymph drainage: http://www.vodderschool.com/manual_lymph_drainage_overview
so whats it
Any idea I’ve had quadracips tendon rupture operation 10 weeks ago my knee looks swollen feels swollen like a pivot joint it won’t move was told to keep leg straight for 7 weeks after surgery so I’ve done that and I’m worried it hasn’t worked ! I start physio in 2 weeks I need to be bk at work !!!
It is definitely frustrating when we’re off work and wanting to get back to full mobility. Hang in there. You may want to let your physician know about your concerns before you start physio. You’ll likely be amazed what physical rehab will do for you, too. Make sure you keep your whole care team in the loop on what you’re experiencing so you’ll have the best outcome. Best wishes on getting back to work! 🙂
Hello I’m in my 6 week an still can’t bend my Knee what I’m doing wrong?
Me too at 6 weeks post op and so frustrated. Are you better now? Back to normal?
Me too. Had ACL meniscus surgery in Dec 2017. Still can’t bed the knee beyond 78%. Help
I think asking about Knee Manipulation Under Anesthesia will help
I have knee surgery some nine weeks ago but still I cannot bend my knee properly.
I had in-home PT from a week after surgery. Will begin PT in a facility soon. This makes SO much difference! It is hard work, but worth every effort. This current surgery was a revision after my first knee replacement became loose after 13 yrs. it has been the most difficult! This is my 4th joint replacement…2 knees and one hip. All were highly successful and I attribute it to proper therapy following.
You need to get a strap and tie it around your ankle lay on your back and pull it up to bend until you can do it on your own
Forgot to mention i had a total knee done six weeks ago only 98 flex
Had quidrocep surgery 3/16/18 I have 2 weeks physical therapy all ready swelling on leg down but body feels arthritic other leg and arms stiff.
Hi Kevin,
Did you make progress with your quad tendon rupture and recovery process?
I ruptured by quad tendon 11/28, surgery week later on 1/6. I cannot bend my knee more than 40 degrees 6 weeks later and my knee is swollen and hot. Not sure what to do? Calling the doctor again tomorrow.
Hope you are better!
And if so, would love to hear what works?
Thanks,
John
I am only at 112 flex at 11 weeks after surgery cannot bend good due to pain and fluid I am getting down because I am doing everything I am suppose to due been to therapy home and out patient also will this get better thank u Debbie
Hi Debbie, It’s great you’re doing all the therapy you were instructed to do. That helps tremendously in recovery. Please do reach out to your physician and therapy team about your concerns. They’ll be best able to assess your progress and prognosis. 🙂
Hi Cheryl. I’m 8 weeks into my TKR. I’m doing the therapy 3 hours, plus home too. I still have stiffness, and some moderate pain. I’m not taking the Norco as much. I’m trying to tolerate it. I still haven’t gone back to driving yet. I’m going to talk to my Dr about that on my next visit. Overall, they say I’m doing great. I’m well on my way to a full recovery. Thanks Val
Wonderful! Glad to hear it, Val! 🙂
Debbie, I found that I needed an anti inflammatory added by my physician at about 8 weeks because I had so much swelling and couldn’t break past 100. He added Meloxicam and within two days my flex jumped up to 118! I was thrilled needless to say. Within a week I was able to graduate from physical therapy. They also cut my PT back to twice a week instead of three. Another friend of mine who had 2 TKR’s within a year said she had to same issue, was given a different anti inflammatory, and was able to breakthrough her plateau. These aren’t OTC anti inflammatories, but prescribed.
Hi, I’m 3 weeks out of a TKR Surgery and had 114 flex today with My PT guy bending, a little pain but bearable. I feel like I can push myself past 90 without much of a problem. What I would like to know is what is considered full range again. I still have swelling and it get worse as the day goes on. I take ibuprofen 400mg (2 pills) 3 times a day and do stretches every 3 hours for about 15 min and walk for about 15 min with a Cain. I ice after each exercise for about an hour, seems like most of what I’m reading is only 20 min though…
I feel for those that are not having the success as hoped for or expected but I think/trust your Doctor knows best.
How do you drain can you explain? My wife has terrible swelling.
Please do talk with your wife’s care team about her specific situation. Best wishes to you all!
After two month of meniscus surgery. My knee motion are getting better. But after one night my knee back to like when I was getting meniscus tear . Swelling again and the motion not so much again .
Sorry to hear this, Milo. Definitely reach out to your clinical team. We hope you get the answers you seek and get back to enjoying an active life soon! 🙂
Hi cheryl
I did arthroscopic in January 5,and last week April 10 I started Physio and light jogging but my knee is getting swollen in the evening?so what can I do coz am a footballer and I feel a bit of pain in one of the wounds inside?
Hi Given – We highly recommend you seek care from your GP physician or discuss your concerns with your physio. Best wishes to you!
After 8 weeks and going through physical therapy major swelling, stiffness and pain in my knee.
I have this help
I need help in reducing the swelling
Hi Ed… I’m almost 8 weeks post opt for a TKR on my right knee and I still have a lot of swelling as well. I had my left knee done 5 years ago and the swelling was just as bad. Some people just experience more swelling than others. You need to hang in there. My left knee eventually started to feel better as the days went on. Hang in there! Better day ahead!
12 weeks after a partial knee replacement. Excessive swelling. Should that fluid be drained. Also experiencing sharp stabbing pains and numbness.
Hi Sue, We recommend you speak with your clinical team right away. Hope you get back on your feet soon.
Sue, I was just wondering how you are doing. I’m about a month behind you and I am at 6 weeks having swelling and I also have sharp pains in the joint as well as at the replacement site (right partial). Doctor said the knee looked great but I have an appointment to see him again as the therapist is also concerned.
I had surgery almost four months ago and still have swelling, had it drained four times and cortisone shots. So far nothing has helped. The shots are good but they wore off on me. maybe you will do better. I’m very upset over all of this
Joyce.
I read your summary..and mine is almost identical. How did you resolve the issue?
Steve
Hi, did you resolve this issue ? My husband is exactly the same . 6 months after miniscus tear operation and fluid keeps building up from knee to ankle . He has had it drained 6 times and keeps coming back? Doctors have no idea what is causing the fluid build up
MD needs to send the fluid for lab analysis. See “calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease” too. Crystals in the fluid irritate tissues and cause it to produce more fluid as a protective cushioning mechanism through the inflammatory process.
It’s been 6 months since I did my knee surgery for a fully torn meniscus. After 6 weeks, it seemed like my knee was getting better but unfortunately, there were more fluid than I anticipated. At the moment, my knee is still swollen although the fluid has been drained out at least 5 times. The stiffness is causing me difficulties to walk and it is very frustrating. However, reading the comments, it seems like I have to strengthen my knee even with the fluid to prevent other tissues from getting injured
I am 8 months out from meniscus surgery. Pain, swelling never leave me. Had several cortisone injections and 3 chicken shots. drained monthly, always swells next day. Help.
Hi
I also had meniscus surgery, medial on rt leg, oct 2018, I still have fluid, very painful at night can hardly turn around, is yours the same? I have not gone for any injections or fluid draining, I wonder how long it will take for the healing? How is yours?
Rashmi, I have the same especially at night and I can hardly walk in the walk. Did yours get better? What did you do??
Kathy
Hello im the same cant bend a lot of pain and swelling. Is 10 weeks already and i don’t see getting better please need help im planing to get a second opinion. Please help partial knee replacement on oct 25 2017.
I had total knee replacement on 10/11/17 – still have pain in knee and swelling. My husband had his knee done 10 yrs. ago and was totally recovered in 2 months! I am discouraged. I do PT twice a week and some at home.. most people that i talk to are healed in 2 months!
Hi i had a knee reconstruction on the 6/02/2019..& i still have some sharp pains..felt like needles..The Dr took the brace off 4days ago…put clean dressing on…can i change the dressing& wash in salt water or do i need to wait until i must go back to hospital on the 28 of next month..its so frustrating..please help.
Hi Debbie – You should definitely care for the wound area as per the instructions from your doctor. If you have any questions about the incision area, dressing changes, or concerns about pain, please do call your doctor and his/her care team for advice. They will be able to help you. Best wishes to you!
Hello all, I am 7 weeks Patellarfemoral replacement surgery, committed to PT but having extreme swelling and burst blood vessels on Knee. See surgeon in 10 days. Even Physical Therapist is concerned by area of these burst vessels, any thoughts. Note they are painful, unlike burst vessels on foot.
Hi Timothy, I’d recommend you contact your surgeon’s office and explain the situation. They may offer further direction. Best wishes!
Hi my name is Lucille I had TKR on 11-18-2016 am six weeks post op and still have quite a bit of pain trouble sleeping maybe two hours than wake up do my exercise twice daily seven days a week.I do my bike ten minutes twice daily then my list I was gave to by home health care. My question is when will I feel normal again am so tired. Thank you
Hi Lucille. We sure do hope you get some great rest and get back to your normal self again real soon. I highly suggest you discuss your concerns with your home health care team or primary care physician. They’ll be able to assess your personal situation and provide the best solution for you. Best wishes for a great 2017! 🙂
had my meniscus surgery done Oct 22nd 2015. follow through physiotherapies post surgery and it gotten better. however past couple of months it swells if i walk more and knee burning sensation frequently with pain. what could’ve gone wrong ?
help
Thanks for posting this msg sir i have operated in my ligment but there is lot of swelling and i use ice but it effects on my fever can u plz tell me what is the treatment for this to control my fever so i can use iceing
I had a partial menisectomy and cyst decompression on Dec1. I ended up with a deep vein thrombosis in my entire leg because of a gene mutation in my blood. my leg swelled like crazy and I ended up in ER… I am getting very frustrated and depressed by my recovery process. I have been doing PT 2 x a week .. I feel like I’m going forwards a step, back a step, forward.. I just got to -7 extension and 124 flexion in therapy. That was Friday.. my knee is swelling more now.. it seems like some of it is the edema from the clot. I am doing all my stretching/PT exercises and walking my dogs (er, limping) for 45 min to an hour as well as going to the pool to water walk to help with venous return. anyone here have the added hurdle of a blood clot? I know the leg is swollen but its often hard to tell what is the knee and what is the clot issue.. argh.. I just want to get my leg back to normal. I’ve been off work since November 13.. I can’t go back until I can walk for 8 hours..
I had Meniscus surgery on my right knee…I also have a blood disorder (Leiden Factor 5) and my leg has been extremely swollen and bruised…it’s almost 2 weeks after surgery…I had fluid drained once…my surgeon told me that the blood disorder could be the reason for the bruising…which is very sore. I worry about DVT and/or a blood clot. I have Dr appt tomorrow…and start PT this week…! Hoping to get some relief!
I am 52 and had TKR in 11/22/16—excessive swelling, wearing toe to high thigh compression stocking daily. PT and Doctor assure me that I am doing well, released from therapy and continuing exercise at home. Physical Therapists, Surgeon, and Nurse Practioner at Orthopedic office assure me that swelling is normal and may take 6-9 months to reach “normal” leg size. As long as the leg isn’t tight and hard, no need to worry about blood clots. Moving leg causes fluid movement throughout muscles and swelling will go down as it absorbs and distributes. Some people swell more than others, just like some bruise more. If the pain doesn’t increase with the swelling, (stiffness will increase), you are probably doing well!
Good Luck! (Ps—this surgery was pure hell and the other knee is likely going to be done as well…..ugh!)
Hi i have taken acl surgery for my left leg on feb13th ,after surgery it’s horrible pain up to one week,even it’s not able to touchble by others. Now one month over still am not able to bend 70degee ,while doing physiotherapy am crying its unbearable pain .anyone please suggest me .am getting afraid to go physiotherapy due to pain and stiffness of the knee.my knee looking like a cricket ball stiffness. Is there any surgery problem plz.
I had a different surgery, but I too was brought to tears. I had a tkr. When I was at 2-3 weeks, I was going to PT three days a week. I could painfully do most of the things required of me except two.
First was the bike. I just had to pedal forward as far as I could, then backward as far as I could….for 6 minutes. Then one day, I went all the way around backwards! I have made steady progress on the bike since then.
The second thing was when she would work on my leg. I sat on the edge of the table. She would massage, and then push my leg back to try to bend it under the table. The pain was unimaginable. I screamed….loudly. This went on for a few sessions. I started having nightmares about going to PT. I couldn’t sleep. I had anxiety about going there. So, I had a talk with her. I explained the nightmares. I cried and told her I couldn’t do it anymore. She said I had to, but she found another way to work on my leg. I still scream a bit, but the nightmares are gone and I have gotten to 120 degrees with her helping, 115 on my own.
I still have pain, but I am so glad I talked with her!
Hi Lynne, Your story is where I’m at now. I am 5 weeks out of TKR and with home physical therapy I didn’t bend knee fully. Now 1 week at outside physical therapy and I can only go forward to a point, then backwards to a point on the stationary bike. They bend my knee as it hangs off the table and I scream and bite into a towel. Just want to know, how long did it take to you to pedal all the way around on the bike? I need to hear a success story.
Thank you!
Omg- I’m 8 weeks post RTKR – jan 10,2018 these pt sessions I’m reading sound so brutal- check out Bonesmart.org— whole different perspective – take care- no, really
Wow, yes check out bonesmart…no one should have to endure that much pain from PT. I am 8 weeks out and still trouble sleeping and restless legs. Driving me crazy. I am at a 116° bend. I have PT 3x per week and also do some at home.
Hi Lisa, I am 7 weeks post op and the first time I went on my recumbent stationary bike I almost went through the roof! Didn’t even get one full revolution, honestly, it about took my breath away. Someone told me to pedal backwards, so I tried that and surprisingly, it worked. Did that for a few minutes and then went forward with very little problem. Now I am on there daily. It is a struggle for sure.
I had my op February 2018 some weeks ago, i am still suffering with swollen leg which i had the replacement knee but also the leg which was not operated on this is swollen worst than the one done, i finished my physio 6 weeks very difficult but eventually knee was bending a 100. % . The worst thing is swelling how long does this go on , i have been told by lay people that it takes anything from 6months too a year (i hope not ) anybody who is a professional can you inform me or should i return to a go.
After 5 weeks I was able to finally get the bike pedal all the way around, it was like winning the lottery. Now a week later it’s a little more difficult, swelling has increased. PT says we will now back off a bit to allow this to resolve. Just keep pushing. Best of luck to you.
Hi Lisa, I’m at 6 1/2 weeks out w TKR. And I remember when I went all the way around on the bike , I was so excited. It was at 4 weeks. But now 2 1/2 wks later, because of all the swelling and pain , I am unable to go all the way around on the bike again!! So I feel like I take 2 steps forward and 1 step back. I exercise, go to PT twice a week. And now I can’t bend as well as I use to. I want to feel normal again so I can regular exercise and loose all this weight I’ve gained this past year. Going to call doctor Monday.
What did they do differently to get the knee to bend?
I had tkr 28 Aug 2017. I used a rowing machine to assist my knee bending. I taped a scale on the floor and just sat on the seat with my feet on the ground and pushed forward gently each day pushing myself to get my knee past one more mark on the scale – hard work and slow progress but it did work and now I have excellent bending ability. Unfortunately though I feel as if I always have a clamp of iron or band of concrete and No 8 wire around my knee. Whilst not painful this is extremely uncomfortable and awfully tiring. I continue with all my exercises and icing and am back to all Pre-op activities – would really like to know if the clamping will eventually disappear
Hi Lyn i have the same problem i had the tkr 8 weeks ago and it feels to me theres a ton of bricks in my knee i still cant walk by myself but walk well on one crutch i just feel im not doing that well good luck to you wish you well
Sometimes nerves are cut during knee surgeries (often, actually). My doc referred me to a pain specialist for this horrifying, unbearable nerve pain – like a lightening rod. He has prescribed Gabapentin for the nerve pain.
Barbara did that nerve pain go away? I am 9 weeks out of TKR and my thigh feels like needles and electrical impulses especially when I sleep. Will that eventually go away. Also I noticed some bruising on my foot by my toes 8 weeks later ….weird
I am 67, have always been pretty active and had bilateral TKR (both knees) done on Feb. 6, 7 weeks ago today. I have just about 0 degrees extension now in both legs with 115 degrees flex in left and 120degrees in right. Both knees now swell whenever I overdo activities. I can go up and down stairs, slowly, and walk pretty normally for short distances. Yesterday, I moved wood with my tractor taking my time to fill and empty the bucket. Clearly, my body didn’t like that very much so both knees swelled up and got rather stiff. Not a great night of sleep! Ice helps a lot as does some ibuprofen. I haven’t used pain meds, except for two Tylenol PM tabs at bedtime, for three weeks. I appreciated the article on swelling and hope that in another month or two all of this will be on the way to being a bad memory. This is certainly a tough procedure to live through!
I am 59, had bilateral TKR 8.5 weeks ago. My PT says I have been a machine; have 140 degree in my left knee, and 130 degree in my right; -0- degree completely straight in both. I went back to work full time 2 weeks ago, and still have terrible swelling. Suggestions?
oops–forgot to mention, work is sitting/s;tading, frequent movement, in customer service I elevate and ice when I get home .
I had Left TKR on January 31, 2017, @ 2 weeks post surgery got cellulitis in left lower leg. treated with antibiotics and 1 day in hosp. on IV antibiotics and still feels like a horrid sunburn is dark red, warm to touch at the end of the day. This is indeed a tough surgery, and the right knee needs doing as well SIGH! Returned to work at 7 weeks which is at least a distraction but has increased leg swelling since as a nurse I walk and walk all shift! Waiting for healing but I have little patience left!
I am wondering how you are doing now, Sandi. I can’t imagine going back to work at this point. ( I teach parttime at the local college, so I just took the semester off to have surgery and recover.). No way I would make it across campus in the 10 minutes between classes.
You are now 4 months out, correct? How is the pain level going up and down steps? How far can you walk?
Still having pain after partial knee replacement 6 weeks ago. Had PT for 4 weeks. Doing exercises and Ambien at night. HELP. I am an active 74 lady golfer
Please help I had a left tkr on March 3,2017pr released me after 2 weeks I still exercise twice day but it seems like I’m having more pain and stiffness in other areas in My lower left extremity posterior calf. My foot and really bad posterior knee pain and weakness I also have pain burning in my thigh I am so discourAged help
Hi Marilyn, Please do discuss your health care concerns with your physician or rehabilitation team. They can provide the best followup care for you. Best wishes, Cheryl
My husband had tkr done on May 1,2017.his upper leg is swallon got some bruises but he’s complaining that his joints hurt n that his upper leg is numb can’t feel anything is that normal?
I had a Fulkerson procedure and repair of genus recurvatum with 2 allografts on 12/21/16. Due to hardware failure, I underwent another surgery on 1/31/17. I was non-weight bearing for about 3 months. Due to my existing high fall risk, I primarily stayed in bed all day when my husband was at school. I was getting in home PT 2x/week and completing a range of exercises daily on my own, including walking with a walker when my husband is home. Unfortunately, we lost our insurance on 3/31/17 and did not get it back until 5/1/17 so no PT or Ortho visits since then (although I have continued with the PT exercises). I started noticing that my ankle and knee were swollen and painful *Has to start taking Norco again) about 1 month ago, but elevation, an anti-inflammatory, ice and my exercises seemed to help. I have been on vacation since the beginning of this month and the swelling has probably doubled in severity and is not responding to the above treatments. I have been more up and active during this time, but am careful about using my wheelchaur, walker or electric scooter depending on distance, terrain, length of time sitting/standing, etc. Is it common to have this much pain and swelling so long after surgery? I will be calling my Ortho, GP and PT provider to schedule appointments tomorrow.
I had my left knee replaced March 7, 2017, so I’m 10 weeks out now. I weaned myself off the hydrocodon and can’t take nsaids. I saved my last 10 hydrocodon to take prior o PT. I now have one left. At home, I either take Tylenol, tramadol, or nothing. At night, the PA suggested I take Tylenol pm. It helps me get to sleep, but I don’t want to get addicted to that either.
From the beginning, I’ve had no trouble straightening, but bending has really been a struggle. They told me that I need to keep it straight while sleeping. That is now my most comfortable position.
We went to dinner for Mothers Day, and I just couldn’t sit still that long. I had to keep getting up to straighten it for a while. Has anyone else had this?
Also, I have pain on the outside of my left knee. It feels like the prosthesis is pushing against my skin. Also I get pain across the front of my knee when I bend it. I don’t think any of this is scar tissue pain.
Last thing is that it gets so stiff so fast. I use heat before doing my twice daily exercises, but it doesn’t last long.
I guess I just want to know that it’s not just me. I see people come and go at PT, but I am still there, not ready to be released.
I noticed your comment on this site regarding knee replacement . I am almost 8 wks post Op, and still have stiffness and swelling. After reading all of these comments, I’m finding this is fairly normal. This has been the most difficult experience of my life! You mentioned you uses heat, which I want to use so badly but they yell at me due to the bleeding risk. I’m sure you are better by now since this was several months ago , but was curious as to how you are now? This forum was very helpful because I have been back and forth to the ER thinking I had some kind of blood infection but no clots , just alot of swelling and stiffness. Thanks for listening .
You are supposed to hold off on heat for a while. If used always follow with a few mins of cold.
I would have them heat the back of my knees. I am now over 1 year! Still have daily swelling daily.
Not necessarily visible always. But the internal pain pressing on nerves (I think) stretching is the main exercises for me.
I have history of patella syndrome and find myself having to do all these strengthening exercises to activate inner quads.
This has been hell. Between pain and depression of having worse pain than before surgery.
I think unfortunately I had bi lateral hip replacements coming up on 15-20 years now. Forget what years but the point is I thought the knees would be similar.
Couldn’t be further from hip replacement. I am trusting PT he has me working on glutes (clam exercises) quads only wall squats but mostly activating the tear drop section of quads.
Had both knees done last December at once. I think we are making progress. The initial description about why at end of day I cannot walk makes so much sense.
Once my quads are shot I have to stretch hamstrings do my leg extensions and clams with Ball squeezes. And stretch like crazy. PT mentioned I need to feel pull in back of knees when stretching hamstrings.
I also use foam roller for quads and after maybe 30mins – hour of this I can walk again. The muscles just tense all day long.
Surgeon told me at 7 months squats squats !!! Well I think I overdid them a bit. It is amazing how at least I did not know or realize I had bad form in some exercises.
Also I have pain on outside Knee and a new lunp which someone said they thought is the new Knee. I tend to think it’s soft tissue.
It has been a year and I finally can begin to pin point what makes me worse. Sitting and not sleeping with legs elevated
i am going through same symptoms, i was taking pain pills once a day, now i’m up to 3x with muscle relaxer, just to get some rest. Now i’m getting sudden jolts or jerks, scary. i’m so depressed, i’m trying hard to bend my knee but still at 50% and i’m in my 5th week. i’m deathly scared to go to PT. i tried hanging my leg and the pain was so bad, i didn’t do any PT today. i’m ready to lose my mind.
Lorraine, please talk to your doctor as soon as possible. He or she will be able to help.
Hi lorraine, I’m right behind you. Had TKR on my left knee on March 19th, 2018. I didn’t have much swelling or inflamation until now (4th week). I feel like I’m going backwards. 2 weeks ago I had 86 degree bend, yesterday was only 56, because of pain and swelling. So frustrating. PT is pure torture. I was wondering how you are doing now since you’re a little over a month ahead of me?
Lynne I am 8 weeks (7/24/18) from TKR. Been thru 1 week of in-home therapy and 18 out patient sessions. PT says I’m doing well. Last week my surgeon said the same and that I could end PT now. I stopped PT today. My knee is still swollen and painful. I’ll just continue to ice and elevate. Hope things improve as I keep being told they will. Good luck to us.
Hey Kate, I had my PKR a few days after you. I know my recovery is faster than a full and the surgeon used a robot arm which from what he told me more precise and quicker recovery. I have progressively getting better and going to PT 3x a week. Missed several times over two weeks due to sinus infection. Anyway I was doing great and Wed PT really rubbed my leg and thigh area hard. We then went to gym and did all sorts of exercises I had never done before post surgery. Wall squats and knee bends ect.. I was fine. I took a tramadol before I came. Felt great and then that afternoon shooting pain through the back of my knee and side of my knee on outside. I could not walk! So scary…had given the walker away and I was alone at my home with my two huge dogs. It is now Sun morn and I am walking, but back on tramadol several times a day and Celebrex twice a day. Back to pills:( At times it feels like my knee is stuck in a painful position..hard to explain. Excruciating pain. Ice helps, heat not sure. The pad sort of hurts on my scar. Wed thru Friday could barely walk. I walked the day of surgery and 8 weeks later I could not walk??? Crazy
You are not alone. I’m at 6 wks out for TKR and when I sit in the jeep for a long ride my leg gets very stiff. At night I never make it through the whole night without getting up and stretching it. I rub my foot alit because it can get so swollen. I still say it takes 2 steps forward and 1 step back. Hang in there!
Wow I am 6 weeks out of TKR and they have not given my anything for pain since my third week . I have had to just take Tylenol and after my 4 week was not able to take anti inflammatory meds due to bleeding. The pain gets unbearable at times and I don’t sleep more than a couple hours at nite due to the stiffness and extreme pain. Family Dr just gave me some ambien to sleep but that only helps get maybe 2 more hours tops and that’s if the swelling isnt bad. Very frystrated with PT theydont stretch out and work on my tight muscles and ligaments. They just start work on strength stuff. So had to start going to a trAiner at the gym twice a week, he works on these things and it helps a lot with some areas where I have pain and improves my movement greatly.. very frustrated didn’t plan on this much pain this far out.
I am 10 weeks out today from bilateral tkr and your recovery is identical to mine! I would love to know how your rehab progressed. We went out to dinner the other night and I too had to stand and straighten . I heat before rehab and the stiffness comes back fairly quickly when I stop. I have the same pains in my knees you talk about. I feel frustrated but am told this is normal. My extension is great and my Rom is 110 in both knees on my own but the stiffness is driving me crazy
Hi Cindy, I had a TKR in July 2020, so I am now 15 weeks out my leg is also stiff and makes walking almost impossible. It is stiff from the time I get up to the time I go to bed. Did your stiffness eventually go away? If so how long did it take?
To Jamie,
Yes, I have quite a bit of numbness. First of all, my knee to the left of the incision is numb. It hurts inside, but I can’t feel it if I scratch it, for example.
In addition, my leg is numb sometimes. I previously had this issue, but was told it had to do with my back. I had back surgery three years ago, which relieved numbness from the knee down, but not thigh numbness.
Following my TKR, I didn’t notice thigh numbness. Now that I’m 10 weeks out, it’s returned. Not sure of the cause.
To Lynne C!
I am 6 weeks tkr right knee and experiencing some of the same symptoms you do. Stiffens very easily, can’t sit still in one position for too long. Sometimes I feel I am going backwards. I read up about numbness on one area of knee. That is because there is a nerve that is cut which is in the path of the incision made by the surgeon. Doctors can’t help this but some say you regain feelings to that part if hopefully the nerve find a way of repairing itself. I have the same question and look forward to the light at the end of the tunnel…when is it going to be over?? Hang in there, take one day at a time and hope for a pain free knee one day in the future. Good luck!
I have the numbness to and I’m scared of that. I have pain around the knee and sometimes my leg buckles. I still go for PT three times a week and he says I’m doing good, I don’t think so.
i had partial knee replacement almost 5 weeks ago my right foot is so swollen i can wear shoe or even a sock and calf swollen to knee is still twice the size of left knee when sitting i go to stand i really have hard time the out side of knee is numb to the touch i feel an itch and go to scratch it but cant feel anything is this common for a foot and calf to be so swollen so bad
I am 3 1/2 months post meniscus surgery and still having lots of swelling. Dr. gave me Cortizone shot in knee which helped some but still some popping and lots of swelling on the outside and back of my knee.
Hi when you say lots of swelling how would you describe the size of the knee? I had meniscus surgery (medial and a bit lateral) on May 1,2017 it was great until may12 when I started walking more and activity as usual. Now swollen and painful.
I had surgery a full knee replacement on my right knee. It’s getting me so depress because I can’t hardly bend my knee. I push hard and try. I even go walking in the morning, go to water therapy 3 days a week and still having a hard time bending my knee all the way. And Everytime I go to doctor he keep saying it takes time for things to get back to normal. I had my surgery since February 16 2017 and haven’t made much progress. This is just to much for me. Is anybody having this problem. I ice my all the time and does my exercise at home to.I am about to go crazy. I need to get back to work and it keeps me depress
Hi, I’m a 70 year old woman and had tkr of my left knee on March 25, 2017. It’s been 3 months and I still have numb sensation left of the incision and below the incision. The incision still feels sensitive. I had in home therapy and where my surgeon has his office half of the first floor is for therapy that I attended twice daily. My knee still has stiffness and at times I walk like a peg leg pirate. My knee feels swollen and behind the knee it feels swollen. I have not been able to reach the 120 measurement but after all these weeks of really working hard and feeling like I couldn’t push or pull my leg I attained 98. I only had pain meds two days in hospital and was there for four days. I can’t sit for long and stiffness becomes unbearable and shopping is limited to short jaunts. I’m worried about the stiffness and not being able to get a good bend and go to see my surgeon on Tuesday. I heard if the knee doesn’t bend good they do a manipulation forcefully bending like starring all over again. Of course you’re put under and still not fun remembering the first surgery. I do have the ice machine and really love it especially when I have overdone certain activity.
Hi Barbara, I had a tight TURIN July 2020. I am 15 weeks out and my leg is also very stiff from the time I get up to the time I go to bed. I also feel like I’m walking with a pet leg. I’m very frustrated. Did yours eventually go away and if so how long did it take. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Im just now 5weeks out from a tkr i have swelling an major stiffness the dr put me on a low dose nerve med so when i go to therapy im not as tense maybe you could ask your dr my bend is at a 97 i have gotten a 100 once but it really hurts it is depressing but just hang in there thats what im trying to do god bless
I had a TKR also on Feb 16. 2017, right knee started PT 3 x week the week following surgery. Was released from PT and my surgeon on 4/24/17. Returned to work part time for 5 weeks, then full time. I’m still experiencing pain, swelling, numbness and it hurts to touch. I’ve been able to kick most of the hard narcotics, now try and rotate OTC, with tramadol. I’m very depressed, always tired, not sleeping well, I cannot wait until this healing period is over. Let’s hope we can soon kick this, and life returns to normal.
Wishing you a quick recovery, Connie! You’ll get there! 🙂
Barbara,
I agree with you that this is just too ;much for me too. I am three months post op and still have pain in the knee (right) and swelling. and numbness. I go to PT twice a week and do some at home.
I don’t see any progress in the past 3 weeks. i am discouraged.
Hi i understand what you are saying. I had my knee replacement sep 2017. its been 6 months. I found out that after doing physical therapy from sep to Dec i went in they was unable to bend my knee I cried. I knew something wasn’t right. I call my doctor went into office he had to do a manipulation. It help but some how it’s stoped went back as it was just this pass month. Now not able to bend my leg about 1in 1/2in off the floor so can’t bend the knee. I see doctor Monday. I have great concern that some of not right. My knee is totally freezen. And I have pain when get up walk. I have been in fitness center now about 3 months physical therapy 3 months. My knee always swollen as well as my thigh. It’s very very depressing. I have more pain now than I did before having this done. And limp when I’m walking but no bend in my knee at all. I feel something very tight in my knee. Like something stopping it from bending. I wish everyone good luck with the knee. People are me walking and I shouldn’t walking
The way I do. When they find out that my knee replacement bee 6 months. They even say something now right.
I ha TKR 4 weeks ago and having a hard time with the flexion (only 70) I’ve had surgery on this knee before and had trouble with flexion prior to TKR surgery so I’ve read this is an indicator of how much flexion you’ll have after surgery. My fear is I’ll never get the full flexion back. I feel like I have a steel band around my knee keeping me from bending.
He did mention if I couldn’t get the full ROM I would have to go back in the OR and have a manipulation done. I was very active before this- cycling, hiking, swimming, etc
Hi MaryAnne, So sorry to hear you’re having trouble. Since it appears you live in Georgia, we recommend you discuss your concerns with your physician, or perhaps seek a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist in your state. Best wishes to you!
Hi MaryAnne I had my tkr 9 weeks ago. I got my flexion back by sitting on a rowing machine feet on the ground and slowly gently pushing my knee past marks on a scale that I had taped to the floor – it worked wonders and I am really happy with my recovery – but like you I have that terrible band of steel / iron / concrete around my knee together with what feels like pieces of No 8 wire sticking out here and there. I would gratefully like to know of any remedy for this or is it just a “time” thing
I’m a 57 yr old female and had a left TKR 9 weeks ago today. I have a lot of swelling, stiffness and soreness. My ROM is at 110-113 on my own but during PT I achieve 117 with help. They say my ROM should be better but I’m doing my best with the amount of swelling, stiffness and pain I have. PT even suggested it could be scar tissue so I’m seeing my surgeon next Friday. I go to PT 3x a week, do my home exercises, ice, elevate, use the RX from surgeon and wear a compression sleeve that PT gave me. Any recommendations on how to reduce the swelling, stiffness and achieve better ROM?
Hi Joyce, Glad to hear that you are sticking with the physical therapy, in spite of the difficulties. Hopefully the coming appointment with your surgeon will provide solutions—but please make sure you ask them about the best ways to reduce swelling/stiffness and improve range of motion. Best regards, Shawn
Thank You!
i had an acl surgery 6 weeks ago…can bend my knee to 70 degree only…anf the knee is still swelling.. is it normal?
hi I had tkr on may 9th been going to therapy twice a week put ice heat on after therapy but still feel pain and stiffness it depressing I do squats and bending twice at home the stiffness comes right back I walk like a peg leg pirate to and feel pain right now cause I did some walking today don’t know what to do should I call my surgeon office or will it go away think it might be scare tissue its just stressful going to try to go to work august 7th hope the stiffness is gone continue to take Nucor for the pain very uncomfortable at night can someone please give me some advice
Hi Dorthea, I had a right TKR in July 2020, so I’m about 15 weeks out. I have a lot of stiffness in my leg from the time I get up to the time I go to bed and I also walk with a peg leg. Did it ever go away and if so how long did it take? And do u have any advice?
I had patellar femoral replacement 7 weeks ago, swelling is crazy, at least double the size of other knee but after much reading I am fairly sure it is all part and parcel.. I was told early on and now have this image in my head that when you stop moving your injury you are allowing the scar tissue to move in and set up shop ( I picture little cartoon scar tissue devils making a home in all the crevices of my knee) .. scar tissue makes it more painful as you have to destroy it everyday.. rubbing it, moving it, removing it… my knee is still healing but I hope this gives someone some needed perseverance as it has helped me. Best wishes!
Hello I had a TKR May 3 2017, I am recovering well but I continue to have swelling and discomfort under my knee and down my the front of my leg. Has anyone experience this and if so what have you tried to help. I am doing PT daily started getting a message on my leg which has helped. I assuming this is all muscle pain that will just take time to heal.
Hi Lisa – Sounds like the massage and PT is helping quite a bit. You may want to talk with your PT about what else you can do to reduce the swelling and discomfort. Since they are closest to your personal health situation, they should be able to provide some of the best advice. Best of luck to you! Hope you’re out running marathons soon!
my partial knee replacement was done on June 5. After reading this postings I realized that my situation is actually pretty good. So it is nearly 8 weeks after the surgery, my angle is 135 with help and can walk for 3-4 hours without a problem. well, there is of course some swelling afterwards. Today my PT started me to jump little jumps and shuffle, I was really excited to see that my agility is sill there. Hopefully, all of us with partial or tkr will achieve that dream of having no pain.
I am 60 and had both knees replaced. Am doing really well but experiencing continued swelling in the right knee. Was getting worried & discouraged but your article was extremely helpful and encouraging. Now I understand that it will help to push through and work harder to reduce swelling. Thanks you so much!
I had meniscal surgery on July 26,2017. Thank God I went to physical therapy 2week ago. On today 9\24\17 I walk with no pain after 7 months of meniscus tear. Thank you Jesus😇😇😇
Wonderful! So happy for your great outcome!
hello, before two months i have faced a knee operation, doctors added plates in my knee, bur my leg from knee is just miner rotating(20%), it is no more rotating, please help me, and my fingers of foot also not movimg. please guaid me
I had a parcial knee done 9 weeks ago and was doing ok until 3 days ago. I’m not sure what happened but I’m having sever shooting pain on the back side of my knee. The swelling and Pain is worse than the first week post op. My knee pops every time I bend it and with every step the pain shoots from the back side to the front. My physiotherapist says that something is not right with this and I’m scared the implant has failed. Every couple of days I hyper extends backwards. Has anyone else experienced this or am I just a wimp as my wife says.
Hi Mike. I had a LTKR in March. I have unbearable pain to the outside of knee that goes behind the knee as well. I feel like I am being stabbed when example going from sitting to standing . My swelling fees like someone is blowing up an inter tube, cycling ???? I expect pain but can’t live with the pain that goes from the side to the back of the. The crease area. Have you seen your doctor ??
I had knee surgery 3 weeks ago and I feel like there is drainage going on inside my knee can not see any ooze but feel ooze inside is this normal
Hi Patricia, I suggest you reach out to your physician and physical therapists to discuss this. Hope you are feeling better soon.
I’m about 5 weeks post tkr to my right knee, I’m almost 55. My surgery went well and thru all my therapy and home exercises I’ve attained 135 degrees flexion and 0 extension. Therapist and PA are very happy as am I. My only concern is that now I’m getting quite mobile going to grocery and other errands, after walking for awhile my knee begins to stiffen up, no pain to speak of just swells and stiffens. I’m gonna call my PA for info. Has anyone ever encountered something like this?
Hello my name is Jashona and I had surgery on my right knee they took fluid out and I can’t bend my knee ever since surgery
Hello, it’s been 8 weeks that I had knee surgery for meniscus tear. Every time I go for a 30 minute walk at the park my knee hurts. The pain is the similar like the one I had before having surgery
If it helps anyone, I’ve had numerous surgeries on both knees. After my second TKR Sept 13 2017, I found out I’m allergic to the glue/cement/sutures from the TKR on both knees. I also had a ACL reconstruction in 2004 resulting in swelling/redness/itching. I only found out about the allergy last month. Taking longer to heal causing stress in my relationship. He thinks I should be healed after 8 weeks for the last TKR. The first one was 8 weeks prior and now I’m having lots of problems with the allergic reaction. I’m just so sad. Just retired. Injuries from work. If your having increased redness, itchiness, swelling it may be an allergic reaction.
Broke my left fibula and sprained right. Doctor told me to use scooter for 6 wks because of no weight bearing on my right ankle. Now I’m on crutches trying to walk. Having left knee problems. I’m trying to walk but the knee hurts to walk on it. What should I do?
I am 39..i had my TKR on 5 june2017…my one knee is absolutely fine but there is still pain in left knee infront portion…dr.says its a soft tissue injury…the pain increases if more activity is done….i am patient od rheumatoid arthritis
Please give suggestion to overcome pain and soft tissue injury
PT also wants me to verify I didn’t rupture my quadriceps tendon also. I have real strange soft tissue bounce after I walk too much.
I have to wrap if walkingonce that begins. Or I really get swollen.
Just a note on some of the weirdness. Also the nerve pinching when swelling at days end produces totally odd sensations.
Hi Smita
If you see my post same date today. What has helped me finally relieve pain aside from pills and ice has been proper stretching and making sure I am doing exercises with proper form.
Feel better. So glad I found this site. It really affirmed my daily experience.
It has been at least 9 months of misery. I found a trainer then a new PT. The first PT was one of the “mills” where you just go through the exercises but no one is really watching your form.
I always ask now what are we trying to achieve IE: glutes quads hamstrings etc. I am amazed at what I have relearned about muscle groups and (gasp) flexibility via stretching.
RAor not I think the stretching is very important the description at start of the thread explains what I experience daily. The difference now I will not walk if my leg feels unstable.
I do exercises/ stretches and I feel stronger again. My trainer taught me to work a spasming muscle and typically it relaxes. Allows me to walk almost full strength.
Before I would just elevate and ice for hours. Sleep and rest are key but the exercises they give us seems to relax all the tension. Then I will walk my dog come in and ice 10-20 mins each Knee.
Wait a bit then ice again. Seems I can relieve enough. It is the second time first was PT that came to house after surgery showed me how to work through cramps for lack of better description.
Good luck I think I have a light at the end of my depression tunnel. I still get fooled almost daily that when I wake maybe I am better/ healed. Until somewhere between 4:00 -8:00pm.
Best
Mike
I had knee surgery on dec 7th 2017 and I’m approaching 4 weeks, pt 3 days a week and have my rom 0 and 122 with help. I’m doing some elliptical , tread mill and bike. and I am having issues with steps some days of down with little stress. yesterday i went down and mu operated knee bent forward and shooting pain, may knew blew up and pain, after a lot of ice and some tylenol I’m op now but afraid about the increased stiffness. any one else go through this small set backs.
I had a ganglion cyst removed 6 weeks ago. 3 weeks post surgery swelling was down considerably. 4 weeks I was given the all clear to resume normal activity. In the last week my knee is very swollen and I feel pressure inside it when I bend it, mostly when I take stairs. I also feel a very noticable temperature difference between both knees. Is any of this normal?
Hi Merrie, We suggest you call your doctor’s office to seek advice about your particular situation. They will be able to give you the best personalized advice. Best wishes to you!
Good morning, I had micro fracture surgery back in March 15 and again in December 17 with chrondo tissue insertion, I am now 6 weeks post op, the swelling is reduced however still quite tight, please forgive for not understanding but how is it possible for someone to be up and about a few weeks after TKR and I am still hobbling about !!, I saw the video and am very intrigued by some of the comments posted here, btw, I am in Wales. Thank you in advance for any advice you can offer.
I had TKR 7 months ago. After 20 wks of PT my flexion is 90 degrees. I have pain & swelling. I am 66 yrs young ! Thankfully I live in Illinois where Medical Marijuana is legal !!!
The dispensary employs a RN . She was able to help me find the right product to relieve pain & swelling !!
I truly pray that this treatment will be available in ALL States !
I had total knee replacement 10 years ago and just had a revision on 10/3/17. Developed a large pocket of fluid (they took fluid and tested it( came out negative for infections. Fluid pocket came back and ended up squiring out of my scar 12 weeks after surgery. Had an emergency 2nd revision done on 1/4/18.. all fluid cultures came back negative for infection. now I am 6 weeks out from 2nd revision and pocket of fluid is back…. Doc (there is a team of about 14 docs working on this issue and none of them have any idea what is causing it and now doc wants me to go on steriods to see if that helps… Any one else have this issue?
I had meniscus repair surgery and the Dr also did micro fracture surgery on the knee cap at the same time. I was never offered physical therapy and it is 11 weeks later and I am struggling. Swollen and painful and I’m so frustrated! Any advice or suggestions would be much appreciated!
I have had two TKRs
One 5 years ago, all good,can crawl around on hands and knees on concrete. No problem, just a different sensation in the knee.
I had the other knee done on the 23/1/18. Left hospital 3 days later. Have had trouble bending the knee, but keep doing the exercises and the ice treatment and it will improve. Just on 90 degrees now. Persevere and it will get better.
The main thing to remember is before your operation the pain was constantly getting worse.
After the operation you will be in pain but each day the pain gets a little less
Just hang in there and you will be glad you had the op
Good luck
Thank you, Noel, for sharing your journey. It is quite insightful and will prove helpful for many.
I know that after T. K.R. they always push ice. I for one Hate ice. It doesn’t help and I find it a waste of time.
Wow I read all this because I had tkr 4 weeks ago and thought by now I’d be better than I am. But swelling is bad, pain is bad, can’t sleep, stiffness is bad, ice machine does not seem to help. PT is very challenging because of the swelling. After reading these posts I know feel better to know this is normal. I will keep working to get better and be more patient. I am 54.
I’m 6.5 weeks out from ACL revision, my 4th surgery on the same knee. I was doing great and was told to take the brace off. I then did too much walking for three days and now I’m feeling major pain on back and front of the knee. I’m not able to straighten it out w out major pain. I’m not able to walk properly or put full weight on it. I feel pain from pre op and post op 2 weeks. Is it normal for the knee to be swollen after over usage and this much pain again?
I am 16 MONTHS post TKR and still have a lot of swelling. I think I’ve done all that the doc and PT have prescribed. Just this week my surgeon ordered blood test to check for low grade infection. Fortunately, the tests were negative. Doc says swelling will probably eventually go down, and it has to some extent, be still there is significant swelling. Frustrating. Someone in this discussion mentioned Meloxicam. Is that recommended for swelling, and is it effective.
I had TKR on my right knee on Jan 22, 2018. I am 8 weeks out now. I have had 4 ST appointments and have been released now. I am at 122/0 now. I have a little pocket of fluid now on outside of my knee. I ride my recumbent bike 3-4 times a day. I ride anywhere from 1-2.5 miles a day. I still do the exercises, mostly the drawing up of knee and the extension of hanging over the bed on my stomach to keep the extension. My knee is still stiff and swollen too. I was off all pain pills on 1/27/18. The bike helped me the most. I just rocked it back and forth to start with (like rocking a car that is stuck) then gradually going full circle. Little bit of pain, but the more I do it the better it feels. I have level 1 resistance-then 3-then 6 then 10 for about a minute-then progress back down to the 1. I can go up and down steps pretty well with little pain. It still feels like my leg has a wrap around it though. I hope that feeling will go away sometime. I am an avid golfer and anticipate being on the golf course…providing the snow will go away 🙂
I had ACL replacement, meniscus replacement and osteotomy on February 15, 2017. Its been about 6 weeks. Recovery was going well, I was performing physical therapy exercises at home 3 times a day/7 days a week. Exercises like flextion to 90 degrees, extention with 5 pound weights above knee and single leg rasies. Recovery was coming along great; as I was able to perform all exercies will little to no pain. Then without warning I woke up to my knee doubled in size. Swollen above the knee where it wasn’t before. Still attempting therapy exercies I can’t even get my flexion to 70 degrees now. Literally, overnight everything changed. It’s Saturday, will contact the ortho on Monday. Should I get a drainage in the knee, maybe prescription anti-flammatories. Very frustrated and scared. Things were looking good until now. Feelings of hoplessness.
I am 2 1/2 weeks post post
fractured Patella knee. Down to 1 crutch, no pain and 45 degree on brace. I am 70, 6’3” 210
Athletic. I hope to start pt next week. I find it very hard to get straight answers on recovery time. It gets a bit better everyday and tough as very active lifestyle.
Going to gym every other day and using hand weights at home. Icing several times a day. No pain.
I’m 6 weeks post quidrocep rupture surgery last 3 weeks got blood clot .No physical therapy yet.knee swell ice helps leg in immobilizer mostly in recliner watching tv an internet. Going bat crap crazy.
I am 8 weeks after my knee replacment and my knee is also good in the morning and stiff at night. Ice helps. Movement helps. Most days are manageble but somedays can be difficult, uncomfortable and painful. So I try not to take painkillers. Had to at least 3 times.
Had arthroscopic knee surgery 8 weeks ago. Dr said sooner or later knee replacement. At a level of 1 to 4 say im at a 3 bone on bone. Knee still swollen after 2 weeks back at work. Stressed n worried. Woody
Hi David. I also had the arthroscopic knee surgery last year in September of 2017. It did absolutely no good was a waste of time. I wished I had gone right to the TKR, which I finally had this last August. I’m 6 weeks out. It’s going ok, Just swollen all the time now, including my foot. So it hurts a lot still. I want to get to work and I want to get back in shape again so I’m doing everything they say to do. Good luck!!
I had total knee replacement done on Oct. 2nd 2017. I am very happy with the surgery, I no pain, I have done the physical therapy which help a lot. I gone from using my wheelchair to a walker, now I am using a cane mostly for balance. Most of the swelling has gone down , I have noticed that I still have swelling , my left is bigger than my right one. Not by much, and i have swelling in my left foot. My surgery was done on my left leg. I am looking for advice do I still keep icing my leg?, i want to start to wearing my shoes . I am excersing I am walking all the time I am also swimming now in our pool . Am I on the right track?
Hi I am now 5 weeks after surgery for patellar tendon rupture and I am still experiencing extreme swelling. My leg is in a brace locked straight and needs to be for 6-8 weeks. However my knee is easily triple the size of my other one. Have looked for answers all over the internet but can’t find anything. Is this normal. Can someone give me a time line of recovery for this. I was advised my next appoint with the doctor in a week they will try bend it a little. Possibly 30 degrees. Anyone able to provide previous experience for this recovery?
I’m 10 weeks post 0p for ruptured quidrocep had physical therapy for 3 weeks twice a week swelling is normal ice helps trying to get past 75° is pure he’ll because opioid don’t help me with pain . About had it with physical therapy.
I had a patella tendon rupture 13 weeks ago. Still working on strengthing leg. My doctor said I have to continue with the brace for 5 more weeks. Just when I’m walking. He’s afraid if I fell without the brace and being weak I may rerupture the tendon. I still am using a walker. I feel somewhat stronger but not ready for cane. He said it’s a slow process can take up to 6months. Now when I’m up my legs are swelling , my hip hurts. I haven’t been walking much yet. I get discouraged too, I have to be patient.
I am a Acl sugery patient last month on 11 may i had my sugery and still it swellen little bit ,so i need the ans that how many more days it will take to regain its shape and one more thing should i continue ice or just levae now.
Thank you all for sharing , I had tkr 6 weeks ago and was concerned about the swelling,your posts really helped.
My is Eileen alley i had minibus surgery it has been two weeks after surgery and I still have swelling can’t sleep I. My bed have to sleep in a chair can’t get comfortable so I prop my knee up and I can sleep some. Still in a lot of pain even with pain meds I have a doc appt tomorrow also my other leg is swelled also and foot.:-)
My daughter had a sprained acl mcl and he water socket was leaking she had a extrem amount of scar tissue in her knee her meniscus was cracked and she had plica syndrome after surgery and 3 months after physical Therapy her knee is still a little swollen and she still has trouble running and change of direction stuff is this normal?
Hi great story. I am 20 week do it of partial meniscus tear arthroscopic surgery. I am at 137° range of motion (ROM) but knee is still stiff and inflamed. I have no pain, just stiffness, so I am trying to be grateful. I also have good ROM, so that’s okay. Had a cortisone shot on Thursday and it’s been three days and the knee is still stiff. Doc is doing another MRI, hopefully insurances pays. I’ve been experimenting with diet and anti-inflammatory foods but nothing takes away the stiffness and inflammation. I try not to worry but I would tell EVERYONE do NOT get meniscus tear surgery. I would rather have the tear than all this stiffness. I’m thinking I’m probably headed to total knee replacement (TKR) in a year and a half. I’m supposed to be starting a knew job, so I can’t do the knee replacement right now. Bottom line… my supposed “simple” arthroscopic knee surgery for a meniscus tear resulted in osteoarthritis and now needs a knee replacement. Oh well… I’m trying to be grateful because there is no pain.
Same thing happened to me. I had meniscus surgery..got better…then worse. Ended up with tkr 8 months after meniscus surgery. Now 5 wks after that surgery and have pain at night and some swelling. Getting better.
I had 2 TKRs on the same knee in May/June of 2018. First had to be removed because of a proteus mirabils infection, second knee is constructed of materials resistant to bacterial infection but does not have full strength. I’m still waiting for the swelling to subside from 2nd surgery in June. Doctors cannot provide an explanation. Can anyone beat my 5 months? I’m an active 71 YO male. It took aggressive IV ANTIBIOTICs to get rid of the infection. I had the infection for about 6 weeks before infectious disease doctors stepped in to help. I lost 32 pounds, became anemic and had 2 surgeries to “clean up” the first knee. 3 General Anesthesias and one local (anesthesiologist refused to do a 4th) inside of 4 weeks made me into a complete zombie for about 8 weeks. I don’t remember anything about those 8 weeks. I was suppose to be back on the golf course in 4 weeks after the surgery. It will probably end up being one year. Still no answer to what is causing the swelling to persist. I wear a full leg compression sock every day. I exercise the leg everyday. I don’t golf, water ski, snow ski, jet ski, go boating, motorcycling or have sex standing up (Baptist’s call it dancing).
I had TKR on my right knee 2 years ago I had TKR on my left knee 10 months ago I have had problems with my left knee every since The swelling finally went down when I reached 7 months after surgery. Last week I was at a class for 5 days, had to walk about 2 1/2 miles each day going to class, to the dining hall and back to my room. My left leg swelled very badly each day and hurt so much at the end of the day it was hard to sleep It was swollen from my ankle to slightly above my knee. The next morning the swelling was down and then it would repeat what it did the day before. I just ordered compression socks to wear to helpMy question is why is it doing this so far from my surgery. I have not increased my salt intake and I did not hurt my knee. I do not go and see the surgeon until January.
In March 2018 I was injured in a car accident. I know I hit my knee on the steering column (I’m in Australia so I was in the right side front seat, hit the inside right knee, bruised and sore after and could NOT walk.)
I was xrayed – neck and pelvis/low back, then Ultra Sound shoulder for damage caused by the seatbelt. Then it was time for the MRI on neck and back. My neck was clearly damaged, but I refused to undergo cervical verterbal removal or fusion, etc. I had ongoing pain for 6wks, was finally able to limp around, went back to work on limited duties. By August I was FED UP with having the constant pain in my right knee. Told the doctor it wasn’t getting better. Had the MRI for my right knee – there was a significant torn chunk of meniscus floating around under my patella. So I very reluctantly underwent meniscus removal surgery in October.
I have been OFF work since – almost 10wks – and only AFTER choosing to go to the beach to walk in loose and in wet sand and in the ocean did I finally get some relief 2.5 wks ago… when it finally triggered the quads to activate when no amount of physiotherapy or rehab gym work was doing the magic. My knee is still prone to swelling, but the MOST frustrating thing is I just cannot squat, at all. NADA. NO weight bearing in a full squat – yet I can walk NORMALLY finally, after 9months of hobbling, and I am able to cycle on a exercise bike for movement, and I can use my stepper at home. All causes swelling, and though I can do a controlled lunge, with some restriction, I just cannot seem to get a full bend happening. Any advice beyond Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation, pain killers or strapping support, or knee braces – tried it all and having NO relief. HELP!!! Sick of the pain – don’t get me wrong – extremely thankful I am able to walk and have my leg still attached, I walked away from the car accident forever changed and deeply thankful. But I am OVER the pain (I am aiming to trial for Ninja Warrior Australia at the end of the year – my knee BETTER be mending by then!)
I had a knee scope done 7 weeks ago and meniscus repair done. I tore my MCL but he did not repair that. My knee is still swollen and there is no change at any point. When i wake to the time i go to bed, I am beginning to have edema all the way to my foot. Should i be concerned?
My mom had both knee replacement before 5 weeks… from last week it swollen on whole body… is that side effects of medicine?
Had tkr on Dec19,2018 as of today still have swelling and only bent over he knee 86 degrees and now pt ended per insurance co. So I joined a gym to continue exercises for the knee still have pain and the was told its due to scare tissue and probably need knee manipulation .
I had ACL surgery done on 18th Feb, I was recovering well till week 5 but since last 4 days I am experiencing pain in back of knee and calf muscle strains. I was on 135 ROM but now if I go beyond 100 then feel lot of pain while straining. Also experiencing swelling increased swelling and some instability. Is there anyone else experienced same?
I had meniscus surgery the end of November. I was told it would be a 6 week recovery and I’d be good to get back to my regular activities, walking 3 miles 3 times a week and golfing 1to 2 times a week. I’m at week 18 and have continual swelling just above the knee. I’ve completed physical therapy and have full range of motion. Since surgery I’ve had inflammation of the Pes tendon too. I’m currently taking anti inflammatories daily, I’ve had 2 rounds of a steroid pack, 3 cortisone shots and fluid drained one week ago. I ice multiple times each day. Don’t know what to do to relieve swelling. I can only walk slowly with small gait or the tendon in the front of my knee hurts. Any suggestions?
Hi I had meniscus surgery oct 2018, it’s june 2019 and I am still having issues with swelling in the joint, like you I also have inflamed my pes ansernius tendon, pls let me know how you are making out. I have not had cortisone shot or drained the knee yet, should I wait or go see the surgeon again? I can walk but limp at times
I had a TKR in July 2015. I had bladder complications which involved a catheter, so that I was not able to do a full exercise program for about 6 mth. I was able to walk immediately after the operation. Since then I have been doing regular exercise under a physiotherapist, but my left knee remains swollen. My right knee is almost normal size and has never swollen to the degree of my left knee. My otheropod thinks that my body has reacted to some part of the implant [either metal, plastic or cement]. I was wondering where research is being done on the impact of knee prothesis components on the body.
I shattered my left kneecap into 4 pieces 2/11/19. Surgery 10 days later with pins/screws and wire. Then a straight leg brace until 4/4/19. Cleared to remove brace and begin PT. Started with 27 degrees ROM. Increased to 50 in 3 weeks and it stopped. No gains for the next 3 weeks. Subsequently had arthroscopic scar tissue removal and a manipulation at the same time. Doc achieved 120 ROM during this second surgery. Started CPM machine and PT the next day. Noticed an immediate ROM gain but significant post surgery swelling. Its now 2.5 weeks post second surgery and am at basically 100 ROM on the CPM and PT measures the bend at 85. Huge pain and gigantic bruising around entire thigh after the manipulation!! Began subsiding about a week later. Bruising still prevalent now 2.5 weeks post manip but improving. Had to reintroduce lots of quad strength building as knee felt unstable in the first 1-1.5 weeks post manip. Have done that and its improved the stability again. Like others have said here, I too was able to get revolutions on the bike now. Huge mental gain on that one!👍😀 When the swelling begins to subside I believe I will continue to see ROM gains. I think its a “time” game at this point. I TOTALLY underestimated what this whole process would require and I still estimate that I am 4-6 months away from being able to return to work due to the physical nature of what is required. 54 year old old physically fit male. Hope this helps some folks to get a feel for the process!
I had ACL reconstruction 19 weeks ago and my knee is still swelling like crazy. Granted I’m on my feet all day at work and when I work out it happens and I have pain on the outside of my knee. I had it drained 2 weeks ago and it came back. What am I doing wrong? Will my knee ever go back to normal size?
I had mcl acl repair April 30 , I am back to work. My whole leg swells hip to foot 2 to 3x bigger than the other one and the knee is always hot to the touch (not red all the time) and is very uncomfortable and hurts. dr said it’s due to swelling and normal….
I had both knees replaced, one in 2001 and the other in 2005. I can truly say that I have had no problems ever with my knees since the replacements. Yes, the pain was almost unbearable but you must remember to take a pain pill 30 minutes before exercising. You have to work these joints or else there will be worse problems. I have not had any problem with my knees and it has been 18 and 14 years out of surgery. I have osteoarthritis and rheumatoid so I am accustomed to pain. It is up to everyone to work the joints or not.
So glad you’re doing well, Georgia! Thanks for sharing your experience and suggestions for helping others get back to living life. 🙂
I’m 30 days out from my total knee replacement. I didn’t get to start PT until 7days because of the 4th of July holiday. My knee and the back of my knee is still swollen pretty good. And I’m having problems with it going straight. Should I be worried???
Hi Suzanne, Recovery after a total knee replacement sometimes does take a bit of time. We’d suggest you discuss your concerns and progress with your physician and your PT. They will best be able to provide you with the answers you seek. Best wishes for a swift recovery!
Had quad tendon repair surgery on May 20th 2018 and am still experiencing pain and swelling daily 16 months later. The doc drained my knee multiple times and gave me Euflexxa and cortisone at about the 6 month mark and I have been trying to tough it out since then. I workout and hike hard one day and it costs me 3-5 days of pain and swelling afterwords. Making an appointment to go back and see my doc. I’ve been stretching daily and have almost full range of motion again but I think because the doc had to cut 2mm of tendon off before reattaching it that has caused extra stress (and thus swelling) when my kneecap moves. Any help appreciated
So I’m 6 days post-op. Lots of swelling and pain. Trouble getting much mobility
Was wondering if anyone has a good story about TKR?
I’m somewhat regretting doing this based on the posts here 😟
I don’t want to be discouraging to you but I had my surgery January 22nd 2019 and I have had pain,swelling and my knee will not bend past 90. I have not had a goodnight sleep since surgery. I had an epidural steroid injection (nerve block). Because my knee will not fully extend and I have so much pain my next step would be revision I am told. The shots are a temporary fix for at least a year because they do not want to do another surgery that soon. I pray yours will not go to that extent
I had meniscus tear surgery 3 weeks ago and I’m still having pain, some days are really bad and I feel like my knee is going to bend backwards when I take a step ( I’m concerned something is really wrong inside my knee still) I have been taking ibuprofen like crazy. The swelling in my legs and feet is insane. Is this normal????
14 weeks post TKR surgery. Still very swollen and bent also very, very hot straight out of bed without any exercise at all being done yet. Physio once per week since week 2 now at twice per week from week 10. Bend at 110 but straight leg deficient by 19 degree i.e. getting the back of my knee down on a flat surface. Stuck at this point my last two Physio visits. Had my other knee done as a partial knee replacement 14 years ago i.e. Avon Patella and had not got this trouble with it. Had a bad bleed day two and an infection after this surgery but have had bloods again done week 4 with surgeon and had temperature, blood pressure and pulse check by GP 3 times post op for infection. Told there is’nt one? Why the really excessive heat… actually melts my ice gel packs in about 3 minutes of putting them on my knee even directly after resting. Doing the recommended exercises, have a rolling massage stick to try and move stuff out through groin lymph drainage which I use twice a day. Ankle weight for leg straightening exercise reps of 30 seconds x 3 x 3 times per day and the normal ankle movement, straight leg raises, ankle elevation and knee flexing etc. Mhm Physio now putting pressure manually on my knee cap and pushing it down during sessions, this is just so painful it actually reduces my to tears and some colourful language. All this compounded by the fact that I am allergic to any painkillers that might give me some relief. In more pain now than before I went for surgery and so frustrated at being a tad helpless in my daily life. Thanks for letting me vent, good luck to all in your own recovery journeys.
Hello, i had suffered a work injury (assault) on 11/29/18. I did 5 month PT and scheduled surgery for 5/29/19. I’m currently in my 6 month of post op PT for a Arthroscopic meniscectomy with extreme swelling from prolonged standing or sitting. I had my L knee done in 2010 and didn’t experience any complications and was back to work 3 months after surgery. This is very frustrating and my surgeon is stumped, trying to pass this off as issues w my back. I’ve had an EMG because my knee and leg go numb from the swelling and I’ve had an ultrasound to rule out clots. My repeat MRI is showing edema. Met with a spine specialist who doesn’t seem to think any of this is back related. Again, I’m 6 month post op at the end of nov.
I had knee arthroscopy with repair surgery Aug 1, 2019, after 4months my problem is, I can’t walk straight I felt like there’s something stopping below my knee, I’ve been in therapy 40visits (3x per week), I’m wearing knee extension Morning & night as much as I can but I feel like it’s not helping, what do I need to do??????? Pls help me!!!!
Goid day, I had a surgery eight weeks ago in my knee, my knee is swollen and I can not bend it.
I had knee replacement surgery 3 months ago. Is it normal, for it still to be swollen?
I do my exercises
But I’m still having a little pain and quite a bit of swelling.
I had a TKR 13 weeks ago today they gave me a knee block in the actual knee joint! Hurt like hell, the doctor didn’t give me a prognoses afterword! Does the pain during the procedure mean my leg is messed up somehow! I’ve been having pain all the way down from my knee since the surgery! Thanks
I am starting my 15 weeks after knee surgery my knee is still swollen there are two huge pockets of liquid the medial and lateral collateral ligament are hurting still I’m having random stabbing pains at the bottom of the kneecap when I have extension and flexion on my knee there’s clicking and grinding in a lot of noise I can’t even walk while bending the leg without the noise popping. I’m having a common feel surface nerve problem of extreme irritation to the skin around the whole entire knee still and I’m still in a lot of pain
Hi Kevin, I’ve been told that all the clicking etc will go away when the fluid and inflammation goes down. Don’t suffer silently, go back to your dr and get answers 😊. Good luck to you and hope you feel better soon 😊
My original TKR was Aug 2019. I was doing so well for a while. Flexion was around 135 degrees. All of a sudden my knee was getting tighter and I was having a problem going downstairs and had swelling. Surgeon took me back in a removed a huge area of scar tissue on New Year’s Eve. PT didn’t help before surgery. Now I’m having fluid build up in the space where they removed the scar tissue. PT has been wonderful but couldn’t get the fluid to go away. Had 25cc of fluid removed last week and within 24 hrs it was back. Another 25cc removed yesterday and the Dr suggested immobilization for 10 days. He also gave me a steroid pack. Hoping this helps so that I can get back to my life. Doesn’t help that I can’t take NSAIDs due to kidney issues and have RA and AS. Just keep thinking happy thoughts and looking for that light at the end of the tunnel 😊
Good luck to all of you that have had issues with your TKR 😊
Thinking happy thoughts for you, Lesley!
I had two total knee replacements a day apart. In 2015. I was in physical therapy for over a year due to the swelling in and behind my knees and down the front of my legs. Physical therapists thought I had l lymphedema and sent me to a another physical therapist who wrapped my legs and did massage therapy to no avail. Went to vascular doctor who said it was not lymphedema. I then went back to my surgeon as this swelling gets so painful my legs start to burn. The swelling in both my knees and behind my knees is everyday. Even when icing and elevating it is the same daily. My surgeon said that is the way my knees reacted to surgery. I am 64, active and going on 6 years. This edema really sucks the energy out of me. What is my next step. I am worried as I get older this will be debilitating.
My concerns and questions are getting off of the anti inflamatory meds (mobic). My tkr was December 19th, 2019. I made very good progress with the usual terrible pain, swelling, weakness etc. After 30 days I ended the mobic and the knee swelled up. The surgeon put me on for another 30 days and then the same thing happened. They recommended continuing it but it dangerous to the kidneys if used too long. At this point I have cut to a half dose 7.5 mg, which isn’t as effective. I am greatly limited in what I can do at 18 weeks compared to what I was doing at 12 weeks with the anti inflamatory. Given the covid-19 pandemic and being in new york city area, the surgeon and pt’s are not available given all the more serious things that folks need now. Any experiences with withdrawing from mobic or reducing swelliing would be appreciated.
thanks, george
I had a strange experience with a thorn in my ankle which caused it to swell. I wonder if part broke off in my foot, because they were like needles, at least three inches long and poking out of a stump I stupidly sat on.
It took months for the swelling to leave me, though my foot was mostly normal in the morning, by the end of the day it had swelled again. I walked miles with no pain, but I could feel it cramp especially at night.
What about a broken patella that was repaired in 2017? It’s still twice the size of the uninjured knee despite the same bone size. Skin is still tight but I imagine they stretched it to suture the kneecap. The strength is there, just never returned to normal size. I don’t think it would still be attributed to swelling.
I had surgery for a broken knee cap on my left knee and this is my second time back to physical therapy and I’ve been hard working and it’s been 9 months and my foot still can’t touch the back of my butt yet do u know any exercises that I can do to get that to fully touch the back of my butt
I had an anthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery 10weeks back, and partial menisectomy. My knee is still swollen, i feel nurmbness below the patella and sometimes on both sides of the knee. Theres also clicking and popping sound that comes out of the knee. The back of the knee is always swollen and tight. With some pain. Am scared, with all these sometimes i have wired feelinds that my knee is loose, nit strong. I dont feel my leg being firm. I dnt really know. Am jst in the sky…..
I had mcl done on my right knee 6 weeks ago. Dr did tell me that swelling would be an issue cause of the extensive work they had to do. My concern is that my knee still has fever in it and I just want to know if that’s normal
4 weeks since tkr on left knee. Been doing therapy for 2weeks and feel like it’s helping. Pain at night is relieved with oxy and during day I try to be active. Lately the swelling is returning in the ankle and foot and back of knee. I’ve been icing and elevating several times a day but doesn’t seem to help. Any other suggestion for relief? The back of knee was swollen before surgery and dr thought it was fluid pocket and may go away after…but hasn’t. Anyone else’s?
hi I had a mensicetomy and arthroscopic surgery on my left knee 3 weeks ago. The swelling has gone down a bit but u can’t bend my knee. It feels like it’s very restricted and I cant bend it still after 3 weeks. What do you think is happening. I’m really stressing
What are the best exercises to do for a total knee replacement when you are 10 weeks post op? I still have minor pain issues on the right side of the knee continuing underneath the knee.
I am 7 weeks in with my knee replacement. Knee is swallon and hard is a rock. Exercises and stretching help. Have stretch machine. Need to get to bending my leg to 120 degrees, but knee is so swallon can’t get pass 113 degrees. Do water exercises in the morning . That helps for a while. My daughter wants me to get acuponcher . Have to the go a head with my doctor. Do you think that would help the swelling?
I had meniscus surgery 1year an 4 months ago .I ended having Veinous insufficiency an then lymphedema .I had over 24 sessions of PT and am still struggling with horrible inner knee pain all the way down to a swollen lower leg an foot .I stay vigilant an do the exercise that my PT nurses gave me .My main concern is the pain in my right testicle which van be excruciating,I am lost an still seeing doctors with this pain an swelling ,hopefully this new doctor will find out what is going on so I can return to work .
On October 26, 2020 I had a total knee replacement with a patella augmentation with a mesh above my knee. I’ve been doing OK and then I accidentally fell yesterday and now my whole leg and ankle is very very swollen, I did call the doctor but he says that that’s probably normal. Even after elevation and ice, My leg doesn’t feel like it’s a normal…. does anyone have any suggestions.? thank you greatly
I had bilateral knee replacements 8 weeks ago. The only physio I have had since leaving hospital is 3 telephone calls due to Covid. She asks how I am doing sets me exercises but obviously she can’t see if I am doing them properly. I walk around the house without my crutches and walk out every other day with a walking stick. I also have an exercise bike I spend 10 minutes on every other day. The last few days my knees have been very painful when either sitting standing or walking. Is this normal ? Am I doing enough exercise ? My knees are still swollen and my ankles. I am 70 years old and everyone tells me how well I am doing and how brave I am having both knees done at the same time. I have to admit it is brutal . Would welcome any advise .
Its been 7 months since i had TKR on my right knee. I still have pain and swelling. Pain is located at the back of the knee and underneath the knee cap.
I do walk 5km a day but but because of the pain at the back of the knee, it seems to prevent me from rebuilding my quad muscles on the weight machine ….. From reading your article above maybe I should cut back on the walking and focus on pushing through the pain to rebuild the muscles …. Whats your advive
Had LTKR 4 1/2 months ago, around the 3 week mark I started having a slicing feeling through the front of the kneecap laterally. Feels like the tissue inside my knee is raw but I have no visual swelling. My bend and extension is good. At times it feels like there is a piano wire across the middle cutting me but then it moves to the top or bottom of the knee depending on how I flex. Doctor thinks it’s inflammation and put me back in for 8 more weeks of therapy. It’s been 4 weeks and no improvement. X rays show no issues with the knee. Anyone have any similar issues.
It’s been 8 weeks I’m still sore especially at night also I have stiffness all the time I do my physio twice a day but the stiffness is still there
I hate my knee (hot, swollen, painful, stiff) and I almost hate my surgeon for putting me in this situation – just joking. But I don’t think I will be going for surgery for the other knee any time soon. Worst 4 months to date.
Hi Klaudia, I’m curious, how is your knee now? Just got mine done July 26th, everybody says give it time!! I hope so! I have a friend who had it done, no pain after 2 weeks. I’m 2 1/2 weeks in, and the pain is unbearable.. Did your pain go away? Do you still limp?
I had 6 implants in the left knee due to an infection (2 of them were cement spacers). 2nd surgeon emphasize elevation. I was confused thinking maybe after month and half maybe you stop the ice. So it is good to hear that you need to ice it when it swells even 8+ months after surgery.
I even heard use heat after a month so I now know that is wrong. So I will elevate and ice daily.
After so many surgeries I also have some problems with my thigh muscle. Keep working it.
First rule after TKR ….DON’T CROSS YOUR KNEES or LEGS!
Hi I had knee surgery March 25-2021
Ever since then both my ankles are swollen and it hurts to walk ,,, sometimes I have to ibuprofen to walk with a cane I am super concern only swelling ankles I been icing it down I use compression socks I even stopped going to PT cuz I couldn’t walk or stand still ,,, am going for my second knee replacement let’s see how it goes am 62 years young and I feel like am 80 sometimes but hopefully God willing I’ll b normal again …am overweight I do admit that 420 lbs but am 6’7 people say that it’s ok but not for me I was a very active person now I can even walk 20 yards cuz am breathing hard ,,,, before surgery I used to walk 6 miles a day and felt good until my left knee started bothering that’s when my doctor said that I was bone to bone time to do a knee replacement,,,,,,well I did no regrets but I hate the fact that my legs are swollen
Do you recommend me to do ilyptical bike to Eliviate the pain am open for suggestions…
My second knee replacement looks larger than the first. I just learned they are two different prosthesis’s, three-weeks Post Operation, yet I was told they are the same size. I do not see inflammation. The knee is hard, I feel the prosthesis. The surgeon told me it is internal inflammation and when it heals, the knees will look the same. Does this sound right?
Hi, I’m having a similar problem. I can feel the whole prosthesis, feels like it’s gonna rip thru my skin! I’m afraid it’s to big!!! Have alot of pain… I think its to big!
Its 4 weeks today I had a TKR. I am sorry I did it. So much tightness in my thigh muscles and so painful. My PT said my muscles are angry. I hate that I can feel it and the clicking when I walk. Praying this muscle heals. Im 57 and thank goodness my other knee is ok. Would not do this again.I ice all day with an ice machine and PT says I have good range. But so tight when bend it (guess i am just impatient)😪😪😪
I had a full knee replacement November 2021 it’s now been 7 weeks my swelling and pain ain’t going away I only have 30% bend in my knee the pain is just unbearable still doing phisio and aquatic therapy
Has anyone on here had a orif right patella with tension band wiring surgery? I broken my knee on the 18th of December and had surgery on it 21st of December I’ve got my leg in a splint and it’s straight but I’m struggling to lift my right leg up off the bed but can move it from left to right it’s supposed to be at 60° but I have no bend what so ever it feels like a rubber band fully stretched anyone got any tips or advice I can do to get full movement or at least be able to bend my leg to some extent? Cheers
I had surgery for a broken patella November 8 2021. I started Physio Dec 16 because I. Was having a hard time trying to bend it. I am continuing physio 3 times a week 1hr sections. I am progressing and can walk without aide but not 100%. Very slow process, I think I’m looking at 12 months.
I had a total knee replacement done on 6/2/2022. The first two weeks were very painful, pushed myself through the pain. Yes screams of pain were a daily occurrence during the first two weeks and the bruising on my leg was an ugly shade of black/blue. Have been walking up and down the stairs with crutches since first day home. I find doing my exercises in the morning followed with icing works really well. My knee does swell a great deal but it lets me know my limitations. I have mastered taking a shower, first time it took me over an hour from start to finish now it’s down to 20-30 minutes. I’m bending my knee to 90-95 degrees and each night before I fall asleep I extend my leg to a full straightening and ice for about 20-30 minutes to help with the swelling so I can sleep. Finally was able to sleep through the night at 3 1/2 weeks post op. The Dr had me on pain medication after surgery with Tylenol and finally was able to wean down to just Tylenol during the third week post op. I am just taking Tylenol every 6-12 hours, I try to stretch the time as far as I can between doses. But everyone’s tolerance to pain is different. I found ice to be my best friend, using ice 2-4 times a day helps me stay mobil and decreases the pain. My incision is almost completely closed giving it one more week to make sure it’s healed enough before I start aquatic exercises in my pool. Need to get my knee to full range of motion so I can walk normally without a limp. Had my left knee replaced in my late 40s and it’s doing great, I’m hoping my right one heals as well as my left one. I’m turning 60 this year and want to enjoy quality time with my family. Follow your Drs instructions, make sure you complete your exercises everyday, keep moving and ice, ice, ice. This will help reduce pain and eventually swelling.
I am five months past my knee scope and my left leg and knee are still very much swollen and I deal with Adema almost every day. The doctors don’t know what’s going on so they have scheduled another MRI on Tuesday to look at my entire leg. Compression socks are not a solution. My doctor suggested that I wear them. I told him no I never had edema until after my knee was scoped , so something is going on. I was also told that it could be my weight gain… to that I said NO! There are plenty of heavy people walking around with skinny ankles and skinny legs. I don’t know if anybody else has been suffering from Adema after a knee being scoped, and I have had both my knees scoped in the past and never had a problem so I’m not sure what’s going on now. I hope that they can find something. I will keep everyone posted I just was wishing somebody else had the same problem and had a solution. The doctor now thinks that I might have some thing like a torn muscle or capillary issue but they did an ultrasound on my veins and found nothing , so it’s not a clot. My kidney function and every other number is fantastic and my blood pressure is fantastic. I am 54 my knees aren’t great because I have been an electrician for the last 32 years, and at some point I will need knee replacement but to all of a sudden have edema after a knee scope, is just not sitting well with me and too coincidental. Let me know what your thoughts are everyone hope that all your issues get resolved as well. Thanks
Hi,
I had tkr surgery 8 weeks ago. I can get full extension and about 120 degrees flexion. I have noticed increased swelling, heat, stiffness and pain in my knee when weight bearing. This has made me to use a crutch at home when too painful. My next hospital physiotherapist appointment is not for another month in the public health system. I am worried that my knee may be getting worse again
I’m 62 had TKR 3 months ago, had a manipulation one month ago my knee is so severely swollen, still and red hot to touch… I am using a Dynasplint three times a day and nobody can tell me this pain is going to go away because it feels like it’s never going to go away at all along with the swelling. The only thing my doctor tells me is to push through it push through it, but he’s not the one that feels the pain.