Knee Replacement

Marg008
Marg008 Member Posts: 3
in Living with arthritis

Hello I need to have my severe osteoarthritic knee replaced. I am 69 and very worried about the anaesthetic and the long recovery time as I live alone has anyone been through this procedure and can give me some idea of how bad it is not sure I should go ahead even though pain very bad

Marg008

Comments

  • CarolineW
    CarolineW Member Posts: 3

    Hi
    I am 63 and had a knee replacement 6 months ago. The anaesthetic was fine. I had a spinal block as the consultant wanted to do that so that I didn't wake up in pain. That was really fine and I hardly remember them doing it. I was then also sedated at my request and wasn't aware of the procedure at all. I really wouldn't worry about the anaesthetic.
    The recovery is however very long and the first few weeks quite painful and I think you would struggle on your own. I was in hospital for 3 days and then I needed someone to fetch and carry for me, bring me meals and generally keep me in good humour! Do you have someone you could stay with?
    Things turned a corner by 6 weeks and at that point I felt like getting on with my life again. I started driving again at 8 weeks ( albeit with the other leg as we don't have a clutch) and went on holiday abroad at 3 months navigating planes and airports without assistance. My knee is still however uncomfortable, I have a way to go yet, but you do say you are in a lot of pain so if you can get some help post surgery then don't be scared of the operation.

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