Full knee replacement

RachelM

Hi fellow arthritis sufferers. I have knee Osteoathritis in both knees. The right one was diagnosed about 7 years ago and through exercise got a lot better and doesn't give me much trouble so when my left knee started playing up I hoped it would respond in the same way. However, this was not the case. I now cannot straighten the left leg completely. On a recent visit to a consultant I was told that I needed a full knee replacement but that it wasn't bad enough to put me on the waiting list yet which I understand is at least two years. I cannot walk far now without it hurting despite orthopedic insoles/knee brace/poles but I'm still plodding along as I have a dog that needs regular walking. I'm now thinking of changing car to an automatic as my ankle and lower shin really aches if I have to use the clutch a lot. Is there anyone there who has had a full knee replacement and was it successful (I'm terrified of the op). I've started swimming and do pilates to keep my muscle strength up. I've thought about cycling but haven't tried recently, the last time I tried it was quite difficult without being able to straighten the leg.

It will be good to be in touch with people with the same condition.

Best wishes to all

Rachel

Anna

Hello @RachelM and welcome to the online community,

You have osteoarthritis in both knees and have been advised to have a full knee replacement in your left knee. You're worried about the op and would like to hear from members who have the same condition.

You have certainly come to the right place to hear from others who are in a similar situation, so well done for posting your message. The online community is full of people who are living with arthritis and will be happy to share their experiences with you. Replacement operations can be worrying, so I'm sure there will be members who can reassure you and support you.

The Versus Arthritis website is a useful place to search if you're looking for more information about your condition. Here's a link to the page on osteoarthritis of the knee. It has a helpful section at the end about pain relief, exercising and surgery:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-knee/

I'm sure other members will be happy to share their stories, and here's one from Keir, who recently had a total knee replacement and is featured on the Versus Arthritis website:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2020/may/i-wasn-t-open-enough-about-how-difficult-my-life-was-so-the-pain-stayed-hidden-for-a-long-time/

Best wishes, and do let us know how you get on,

Anna (Mod)

Anna

Hi @RachelM - I've just seen this story from Leony who has taken up walking after a double knee replacement - it's very inspiring!

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/54908/lionys-story-of-walking-with-arthritis

Anna (Mod)