By Jill Ross, HealthAtoZ contributing writer
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Knee surgery is in one respect like having kids – both teach you that patience is a virtue.
Arthroscopic knee surgery, what I had a month ago on my left knee, provides a faster recovery than traditional open surgery. That’s a fact. However, as my surgeon cautioned, arthroscopic or not, surgery is surgery. You can’t rush recovery. If you try to do too much too soon, you make actually slow recovery. “No pain, no gain” should not be your motto after surgery.
“Healing is very individual,” my surgeon, Michael Jolley, tells me during my post-operative visit. Jolley is an orthopedic specialist with Princeton Orthopaedic Associates in Princeton, N.J.
This encouraging news was overshadowed, however, by what he proceeded to say next about a 70-year-old patient who was up walking the second day after her surgery. I am 46, and in contrast, I spent my second day icing my very swollen knee, taking prescription painkillers and groaning.
Average recovery: four to six weeks
By the week’s end, I was back to work, relying on one crutch. At my first checkup, a full 10 days after surgery, my knee was still the size of a cantaloupe. “We can do one of two things,” my doctor advises me. “We can wait for the swelling to go down on its own, or we can drain it.”
Drain it, I say. Six vials of watery fluid later, followed by a shot of Novacain® and cortisone, I finally feel relief. Still, a full five weeks later, I wonder what they mean by “average recovery time six to eight weeks.” My knee is lumpy, stiff and doesn’t have the best range of motion. A mistress of impatience, I wonder if it will ever be the same.
More than 1.5 million knee arthroscopies are performed in this country each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). As it turned out, I am in good company. The type of knee arthroscopy I had for a torn meniscus (cartilage) is very common among pro-athletes, who take a hit to the knee or twist it. As people age, all it takes is a fairly minor injury, such as squatting, to cause a meniscus tear. Torn ligaments like an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) are other common reasons for arthroscopic surgery.
A dance floor mishap caused my injury. One step forward, one twist to the left and there was this audible crunch.
Most torn meniscuses are repaired by arthroscopic surgery. Usually the torn segment has to be removed because it does not have any blood supply and therefore cannot heal back to the rest of the meniscus. In knee arthroscopy, a small fiberoptic camera is used to look inside the knee and small instruments are inserted to either remove the torn portion of the meniscus or, if possible, to repair it.
The minimally invasive procedure requires three tiny incisions – instead of a big slash in your knee – and can be done in less than an hour of operating time. There is very little scarring and, yes, a short recovery.
Experts say most people after knee arthroscopy are able to return to desk jobs within a week and to more strenuous activities within a month. I was back at my desk job at the end of the first week, back to slow dancing at the end of two weeks, back to heels after three weeks, and back to light horseback riding and country western line dancing (the cause of my knee’s demise) at the end of a month. When I ride and dance, I avoid putting a lot of weight on my left leg. Some people wear a brace to further protect the knee when doing “risky” activities that stress the knee.
Still, I am discouraged. Sometimes after activities my knee is swollen, and it is difficult to straighten after sitting for long periods. The AAOS cautions that the outcome of surgery is often determined by the degree of injury or damage found in your knee. Generally, the older the patient, the longer the recovery time. In my case, I had an average tear. I am just pushing recovery.
Getting better
Regular exercise to restore your knee mobility and strength is necessary, doctors say, and physical therapy, performed under the guidance of a professional therapist, may also add something to your final result. I did not have therapy, although I received a list of exercises to do on my own. The time spent on rehabilitation will be worth it in the end. Make sure you do your exercises.
AAOS gives this advice:
- A return to intense physical activity should only be done under the direction of your surgeon.
- It is reasonable to expect that by six to eight weeks, you should be able to engage in most of your former physical activities as long as they do not involve significant weight-bearing impact.
- Twisting maneuvers may have to be avoided for a longer time. (Not good news for country western line dancers).
- If your job involves heavy work, such as a construction laborer, you may require more time to return to your job than if you have a sedentary job.
- If your knee swells or hurts after a particular exercise activity, you should lessen or stop the activity until you feel better. You should rest, ice, compress (with an elastic bandage) and elevate your knee (R.I.C.E.) Contact your surgeon if symptoms persist.
Several dangers have telltale signs to watch for in the first few weeks after surgery:
- Infection: The knee may become more hot and red, drain pus, or you may develop a fever or chills.
- A blood clot in the leg or lung: The lower leg (especially the calf area) may become very swollen or painful or you may develop chest pain with breathing or shortness of breath.
If you develop any of these signs, call your doctor right away.
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Knee pain – continuos debilitating pain
I had that surgery 3 years ago on my left knee and last week on my right knee (2nd surgery on my right knee in the past 6 month), on the first surgery nothing helped me to fully recover until I started Bikram Yoga and within 1 month I felt great, I am waiting for a motnh or so and I am on to yoga again, this is like magic for your knee.
Sharon, would you email me about your yoga? I have recently had left knee surgery for a torn meniscus and am feeling discouraged with recovery.
I am at pnjmichael@gmail.com
Thanks.
Same here, please, thank you. Good to find that I am not alone in my disappointment with recovery, especially compared to the scope I had on my other knee ten years ago. Farmingtonite@gmail.com. (Ray)
From experience, if your rehab isn’t going as you think it should, go with your instincts and do what your body is telling you to do. It never hurts to have a second opinionI, too had a torn meniscus and had surgery for it, and I was very discouraged with the result and the physical therapy, which I took seriously and worked at. I kept telling my therapist that I felt like my knee was getting worse instead of better, but both therapists I had kept encouraging me to continue and work at it. When my therapy had been extended as many times as was allowed, it was apparent to even them that I WAS having problems and they suggested I return to my ortho to have it rechecked. I went to another ortho at that point and found out that the surgery destroyed the tissue, which left me walking bone on bone. That lead to my knee replacement which has had a much better outcome than was the surgery for the torn meniscus.
Now, for my question – After two or three years, ( I’ve lost count) suddenly I’m finding that my lower leg on the side of the replacement has been swelling during the day, right down to my ankles. The other leg is not swelling, only the one below the replacement. Has anyone else had this problem?
I had surgery 33 days ago. I am struggling so much. I was so active and lifted weights, ran, everything. I can bend my knee. I wonder if I have tissue damage? I had to switch doctor’s because the doctor that did the surgery didn’t want to give too much information to my husband and walked out on our conversation. Since I have an active job, I am unable to return to work. I am so upset. I try and tell myself that I am getting better. I am not. I did see another Dr. in their practice and said it would take maybe another 10 weeks. I am so afraid I will never be the same. Has anyone had my problem?
Kim – so sorry to hear you are having such a rough time. Please be encouraged – there is so much you can do to regain control of your healing process! I totally relate to how you are feeling – I have been there! Please make an appointment with me here (it’s a free consult): or you can begin working on your own to start by reading anything and everything on my website and working on stopping your knee pain now with the “Comfot Zone” – please keep in touch – I wish you well – Bill
Het Sharon, i was wandering can you send me any information you have for the yoga, beacuse i have had 2 surgeries in the last past 2 years and nothing seems to help the dull pain i feel in my left knee. I am currently working 7 (12) hour shifts (overnights) in a row and its killing my knee….please help if you can! (Kenneshia)
I had knee surgery four years ago and my knee has never been the same it recovered wonderfuly several months after I did my PT started trail running then I was hit in the thigh and it was never the same again. I still have trouble with it and I play sports and it gives me allot of trouble. It’s very frustrating some times it feels like it’s going to explode.
Michelle – Yes you have a common story with thousand of others suffering with knee pain. I suggest we get on a call and figure out a strategy for you. Here’s a link to fill out a short survey so we can get that setup: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ Looking forward to helping you out with your knee! Bill
I am 30 years old and since I was 23 have had 12 knee surgeries. I can’t even keep up with my two year old because of the pain 30 years old and move like a 80 year old
Eddie – What have all the knee surgeries been for?
I 100% agree about Bikram. I had a meniscal transplant, ACL & PCL reconstruction almost 6 months ago. Rehab was hard – 3 times a week. I was progressing but slower than I would like and I was still in knee pain and, more so, muscular pain around my knee – calf, quad, IT band was a mess. I started Bikram and it feels SO SO SO GOOD! SUCH GREAT REHAB FOR ME!!!
Stephanie – Bikram is great stuff! Something about that heat can really make a difference in how the joints feel afterwards. Glad you had such a great experience! Keep me posted as to to how your rehab continues to go…Bill
Hey I recently had arthroscopic knee surgery May 2012 on left and Dec 2012 on right I found the bikram yoga exercises but was wondering what were you talking about with the heat? If you could email me back I would appreciate it Thanks Jenny
Jennifer – Would you please be more specific regarding your question about the heat? Bill
I also had meniscus repair and PCL and MCL in November of 2011. I did PT for 3 days a week for a year. I wore the Dynasplint for over 3 months because my knee would not go back straight.I recently started to walk for exercise and after 2 miles my entire left leg including my knee ached and was really swollen. I’ve tried bike riding and it was a little better but my left leg hurts all the way down to my ankles. I should probably try Yoga cuz this pain is dibilitating. I’m debating if I should go bacak to my knee specialist.
Hi Tracy,
Thanks for informing about this. What I suggest is that you first see your doctor and update me with that, than we will figure out strategy for you. Please keep me posted on what your doctor says.
Regards
Adam On behalf of Bill
Hi this is Raghavendra last 2weeks back my acl knee surgery was done.
can u send some yoga tips n exercises . can u send details to my mail id.
bellow mentioned id is my personal mail id. Raghavendra.1988@gmail.com.
kindly help me to get faster recovery.
Raghavendra – Check out my book, “The Comfort Zone” and let me know how it goes…This should help you out a lot: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/ Bill
Can you send me an email and tell me more about the Bikram yoga. I had surgery for a menicous tear 2 months ago and would love for my knee to be feeling better again. It is stiff and achy and hard to bend despite 6 weeks in PT. My email is dmunch@wi.rr..com
Hi Deb – Have you gotten into my my book, “The Comfort Zone” That should help your knee out a lot…
I had arthroscopic knee surgery to cleanup a meniscus tear six weeks ago. The procedure appeared to go well. I was able to drive after a week and walk fairly normally in two. However, like Jill I am a dancer and dancing was my primary motivation for having the surgery. At the six week mark I’m clearly not ready yet. I believe the doctor gave me unrealistic expectations saying that I would be able to dance after 3-4 weeks, which led to some discouragement and concern that maybe I wasn’t getting better. Research suggests though that 8 weeks is a more realistic minimum for getting back to impact sports like dance, so I’m worrying less about it now. I do yoga to keep my leg muscles limber and strengthening exercises that the physical therapist prescribed. The rest is time and patience. I originally thought knee surgery would just fix everything, but I understand better now that it has its limitations. Hopefully the long term outcome will be better than if I had left it alone
Victek – It’s been sometime since the surgery. How is your knee feeling now?
Today is day number 6 after having a total knee done. I really dont think it looks swollen at all. The pain is kinda minor. But the thing that is really bothering me is that I am very T~I~R~E~D! I Feel like I have been sleeping well at night. But I just find it hard to nap or sleep longer in the morning. All and all things are good I am just so tired!
I am 52 years old, have Rhuematoid arthritis and could loose some weight. Other than that I guess I am glad that I am pretty good just really tired!! ♥☺
I had knee surgery for torn miniscus 9 weeks ago and still have pain.the more i try to do the worse it gets.i have put on weight as i cant do physical excercise or work,If i try the excercises it hurts even the next day .My surgeon said in 5 to 6 weeks you will be but nothing has changed .I dont have swelling .Gett ing out of the car with my right leg requires a small twist that hurts .I have been on omega3 tablets,but avoid pain killers.As of april I had a sore right hip & knee ,but now the hip pain has is a lot less ,maybe because of no activity .
Thank you ,jim ver ginis 16 th august .
I had total knee replacement five months ago. My pain is mostly at night. I am unable to sleep at night. I get thru the day with minimal pain but at night the knee is very irritating and I cannot get comfortable. I have tried all sleep aids with no results. Also different medications perscribed by doctor with no results.
I had Right knee Miniscus repair back on July 2010, I actually had more pain after the surgery than I did before it….my knee never recovered enough for me to go back to work as a Paramedic, I have had pain constantly since the surgery…daily 5-6/10 and with hard use of the knee I will be at a 10/10 by the end of the day.
I have had alot of problems with the knee…it pops and snaps daily with increase in pain…and then it will just go out and I can not stand on my knee and I am usually hitting the floor because my knee can not support me.
My Dr. says there is noting physically wrong with my knee and can not tell me why it is doing this….any suggestions?
I had the same promblem it is either scare tussie or another tear a MRI will tell you this i had tried pt, meds, and injections finally got a MRI to find out mine was another tear or the doc didnt remove enough if your doc doesnt think another MRI is needed then id look for another doc
Sean, your story sounds like a mirror image of mine, all the same things except that I got a Staff infection at the hospital and ended up going back in for 9 days and had 6 surgery’s and at about the third one they ended up opening my knee completely which I did not even know about until a few days later when I saw it during a dressing change. I am currently on IV antibiotics that I give myself through a PICC Line and I am doing everything as I should, and I have not had a positive infection or blood culture since before I left the hospital. But I am almost in constant pain, starting in the morning at about a six and by mid-afternoon I am at 10 and can barely stand the throbbing burning pain. I take Aleve until about 3pm when I can no longer stand the pain and then start the Lortabs. My knee is about the size of a grapefruit, severely deformed looking and when I run my hand over it, it feels lumpy like a sack of big rocks, and is hot all the time. My Ortho has been taking off fluid every 2-3 days with a big needle and this has been going on for about 3 weeks. I am a business owner and can not work so this is a big problem for me; I feel like I am treading water because it seems to be getting worse. I need to call my GP and insurance and get approved to get a second opinion because I am losing the battle and now the Ortho Dr wants to do another “clean out” surgery. When I asked for another MRI before doing surgery he refused and did not give me a reason why. I am getting really discouraged as I am sure you must be after two years! Good luck & I hope things get better soon for you.
I would get a second opinion from another doctor.
That’s an option too…
I had knee surgery at the end of December 2012 (Bucket Tear) and the swelling afterwards persisted. In april I had a cortozone shot which helped for several months but now it swells up every day and there is a lot of pressure. Curious why it has regressed to this point?
I had Arthro knee surgery to repair a large meniscus tear back in May 23 2012.
I was doing pretty well when I went to the 3 week post surgery visit with my Surgeon , however since then it has went downhill I’m in pain constantly waling any distance is painful and miserable climbing stairs is hell the pain is not where the pain was prior to the surgery it now is lateral .
I finally went back to work and it’s terrible can’t do a full 8 hour shift most I can do is 4 and im in excruciating pain at that completion of those ,I limp as bad as before the fix and it swells .
I take pain meds I wrap and brace it when at work and after I do the RICE ….REST ICE COMPRESS ELEVATE …none of which give me much relief at all Im so tired of this anyone have any suggestions …PLEASE …so depressed with the pain and having to cut hours due to the pain Im at the end my rope .
Hi KATE ,understand what you are going through.I had an arthroscopy 2 years ago and was in more pain after op and could,nt build up muscle.They gave me a scan but said they could,nt find anything.I finally went over to Estonia as i had lived there for years and found them to be more knowledgeable about medical matters than here.I paid for a scan only 200 euros which was put to the highest setting and under scan for 30 mins and got result next day which showed a cold infection picked up from surgery which i will have to live with but i can get this to manageable level if i am in a hot country.I was very fit before and try and stay fit with swimming now as cant walk far in this damp climate.I would.I would get a scan done but would trust them outside UK.I,ve had to take an easier job also and can sit more.Good luck.
I can sooo relate to your situation. I had left knee, torn meniscus surgery in September. It went very well. Didn’t even need pain meds afterwards. But then a@ my followo-up, my surgeon gave me the good & BAD news. My meniscus is good, however, my arthritis has eaten away the cartilage in the middle of my inner knee joint! He wants to hold out as long as possible to do knee replacement surgery. So I am weaaring a brace to do any walking outside. I just went today for a knee draining.. I have been very blessed with having an incredibly sensitive, well knowleged doctor. My appointments are always 1-2 hour wait time, I need to remember it is well worth it!! My suggestion is: Pray that God gives you the ability to chose a worthy orthopeodic surgeon, and the guidance to insist on an MRI done with a high powered machine. I don’t know where you live, but my doctor is in Plano, TX , Dr. M Taba. God Bless you and I will say a prayer too for you.
Had surgery yesterday had immense pain in my calf muscle! It feels worse if I stand. So I am just trying to keep quiet and follow my surgeon’s orders.
Hi Michelle,
I would suggest you fill out a short questionnaire through this link
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
This is for Bill to better understand the history and present condition of your knee pain. Soon as you’ve submitted the form, don’t forget to set up an appointment for a free consultation with The Knee Pain Guru Bill via phone call. By then, he’ll be more ready to assist you with options tailor fit to your knee pain.
We’d be looking forward to talking to you soon.
Kaye
Did you have a blood clot? I just had surgery on for a torn meniscus on may 2nd and have a clot in my calf. The pain is really bad 8/10 for the most part. I would like some advice from someone who has had this issue in the past. Thank you… Juan
I was hit by a car while ridding my motorcycle in Feb. I had surgery for 2 meniscus tears in June. I had 24 PT appointments and the pain never went away in fact it got worse. I went to the doctor and had another MRI. The doctor read the MRI and told me I needed another surgery but also said the MRI was blurry. I told the doctor I wanted another MRI that wasn’t blurry to make sure before I had another surgery. He granted the MRI which I’ve had done and am waiting for the doctor to read it but he has postponed my appointment twice. I have an appointment tomorrow and am sure I’ll need surgery as I’m still in pain. I’m starting to get worried. If I need a second surgery how long will my recovery time be, approximately. I need to return to work but my job requires I can run and jump. I’m 46 and am at the point where I average about 3 to 4 hours of sleep nightly do to worry.
Thank you in advance
Steve,
I can only imagine your frustration of having to still deal with knee pain after surgery. Have you seen my post here?
http://thekneepainguru.com/meniscus-tear-treatment-a-holistic-approach/
I can go ahead and discuss this with you more, if you can please find time filling out a short questionnaire HERE, or you can copy and paste this link to your browser:
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Soon as you’ve submitted the form, don’t forget to set up an appointment for a free consultation with myself via phone call. By then, we can discuss more the history of your knee and its present condition, and come up with the right program for your knee.
Bill
Bill thank you for your responce. I went to the doctor today and found out I need another surgery. I had an MRI where they shot dye into my knee so I guess it shows more then other mri’s. when my doctor read the MRI he told me I still have some rough spots in the meniscus, a hole in the cartilage behind the kneecap and a bruised bone. All this 9 months after the accident and one surgery.
When are you due to have surgery Steve?
Bill
No date has been set as I’m waiting for approval. I expect it will be done at the end of the month or in December.
Thank you
Steve,
Let me know how it goes. You can send me an email at bill@thekneepainguru.com or like I said earlier if you want to have this discussed further you can set up a free consultation with myself via phone call so we can discuss your best options.
Bill
Hi
I had a partial knee replacement in April. Back to work as a catering manager 8 weeks later.
Here I am 7 months later and I am still in considerable pain. Taking Meloxicam, paracetomol tablets to protect my stomach and cyclizine as when the pain is just too much to bear i am taking tramodol which makes me throw up and I daren’t take them when I am driving.
My knee is painful to touch on the opposite side to my replacement knee.
After being on my feet a lot – I can hardly walk on it towards the end of the day. I have plantar fasciaitis in my other heel which means I am walking really wierdly. I think I am walking so badly as shoes that have previously been ‘life savers’ due to comfort value are now gving me blisters that bleed.
I am just so depressed with the pian, taking all these tablets and not being able to have a life outside work as all I want to do is rest my knee on my day off. Am I just being impatient with it?????
Jo,
I’m sorry to hear about you having to deal with knee pain for some time now. Help me better understand the history and present condition of your knee, kindly fill out a short questionnaire through this link:
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Soon as the form is submitted, don’t forget to set up an appointment for a free consultation with myself via phone call. By then we can discuss your situation more and look into options.
Bill
I had my knee arthoscopy June 7, 2012. The Dr. removed bone fragments.
The surgery went amazingly great and felt really good so I went on a vacation
5 weeks later. I was walking upstairs to a restaurant and my knee hurt really badly,
The next day my calf was very painful. I spent the rest of the vacation icing it. When I came back home my Dr. drained it, and gave me a cortizone shot. Since then I have been
trying every remedy known to man. It is still somewhat swollen and painful, mostly
on the medial side of my knee. I can not walk for more than 10 min. without pain.
I have had 12 weekof physical therapy. The physical therapists say the only thing I can do is strengthen my hamstrings and gluts, so I can take pressure off my knee
when I walk. It is now 5 months after arthroscopy. Any suggestions?
J.,
I know how difficult it can be to have that lingering knee pain even after having the surgery that was supposed to heal you. The inflammation is causing the pain and it’s no wonder that it gets worse when you’re using it (walking). I’ve helped people in your position before. Please fill out the questionnaire to give me some more background and I can set you up with a free 30 min consultation. From there we can decide what the best course of action would be to get you out of pain.
Here’s the link:
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Man this is such a drag reading all these comments…but I need to hear this…makes me realize I am not alone. I had arthoscopic on my left knee 8 days ago and I have the worst calf pain. Been to PT twice and they tell me this is normal. My god is it normal?? It’s hard to walk across the room. I saw my doc for the post op visit today and he told me I have an abnormal amount of arthritis for somebody my age, 39, and that I might have to stop climbing. That news is like he end of the world for me. I also have the stiffness after sitting still…I mean that’s why I had this surgery in the first place. Oh yeah the doc said he cut the hanging meniscus tear and tried to smooth out the something-er-other under my kneecap where the arthritis is bad. I hope it gets better.
Mark
How’s your knee doing now?
Bill
Mark,
Sorry to hear about your pain. I had left knee arthroscopic surgery 12 days ago. The knee joint is fine but I have had a sharp pain in my calf almost since day one. I returned to my surgeon last week for a sonogram (to rule out a blood clot). Luckily I have a job that is not physical in nature but can barely get around. There was no apparent blood clot but the swelling and the sharp pain persist. I can only make it through the day with painkillers and I realize this is dangerous for me. I have used RICE treatment religously but when I arise after heat (on the underside of the calf) and ice (on the top of the knee) I still feel the same sharp pain. I am not knee to surgery (2 total hip replacement and 2 Carpal Tunnel surgeries).
I am thinking about getting a second opinion (my surgeon said that there was a lot done to the knee during the procedure and that my symptoms are “normal”.
I am in pain, sad, and frustrated.
Its now 11 months since I had arthroscopic surgery on my left knee for a meniscus tear. I am 52 and reasonably fit. I am quite slim and played a lot of tennis and was in top shape during surgery. The surgeon looked at my MRIs and X-rays before surgery and said I had absolutely no signs of arthritis or any other problems and I should be back on the tennis courts in 6-8 weeks tops. A year later, I am not even close to that. Truth is, I think I may never be able to play tennis again. I suspect surgeons are over-optimistic about meniscus surgeries esply the arthroscopic sort. If I could only turn the clock back a year, I would have focused on P/T and strengthening my core and letting my torn meniscus heal as much as it could on its own. That surgery was probably the biggest mistake I’ve made so far. Surgery is great for the surgeons – but for us patients, it should be a last resort, if used at all, for such injuries.
Exactly the same here. I’m 8 months now after this surgery on my right knee. I did everything I was told to and waited 6 months before I went back to my passion which is ice skating. I was told it would be ok to go back but I did wonder as like everyone else the sin has never really gone completely although has been better than before surgery. Mi find however that after I’ve skated I have to put it on ice and are painkillers. The knee swells but I’m puzzled by a very tight pulling pain that I’m getting in the back of the knee that I never had before. I’m not going back to them but just keep ploughing on hoping it will improve I’m 58.
Eskay – Have you considered working with me? I’ve had lots of success working with similar knee issues. We can get you back to playing tennis in the short term. I’m my best testimonial!
Bill
This is my second surgery and never did find out truthfully about the first one about my results and why except if you have a second surgery you will be up the creek says my doctor, well i had another sugery done by a different doctor and he said all went well but after two months i’m hurting worser than the first one and more swelling, said that i had a meniscus tear the second time and showed me what he done and said that the instrutments could have bruised inside coming out, but the first surgeon said it was a large tissue that he saw and got but was not cancer and i was thankful to hear that but still not better, do they even believe us on this note i really wish a doctor that has gone through this same surgery could help us with our facts to doctors that really just won’t us to go away.
DEbNPain
I hear you and unfortunately you are not alone. I speak to several dozen people a week in similar situations. Each of them in different stages of what you are going through. I can definitely help you out. I’m working with Ben right now who has been through 4 knee surgeries each “cleaning up” from the last one. We’ve made tremendous progress. If help is something you’re looking for then fill out the following application so we can talk and figure out the best strategy to get you out of pain. Here’s the link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ Regards, Bill
One week after TKR – I can see that this will be a. Battle of “patience, patience and more patience”
Tom – How’s that TKR going? Bill
I am a 47 year old female ex dancer, who had anthroscopic surgery on my left knee, 21Nov 2012(Perth, Western Australia.)I Never had an MRI because the sounds from any knee movement or manipulation indicated that the knee was very damaged and the surgeon suggested I save the $600 and spend it on the surgery instead. I was told after surgery that there was extensive damage and that my cartilage was almost completely shredded, multiple spurs and tears and ‘alot of work’ was done around the joint. I had been living in pain, wearing a knee brace for support when it ‘played up’ and avoided the surgery for about 18 months. At the slightest abnormal movement (eg simply diving into a pool) my knee could be in agony and feel tender for weeks!). I’m sure you all agree that this condition is mentally challenging for people that are accustomed to being physical, very active and used to just ‘doing things’ without thought or worry about repercussions.
Went home 2 hours after surgery and proceeded to clean the kitchen, cook dinner and start doing housework. (The pain killers from surgery seemed to give me a strong inital, but false sense that all was well.) I was walking straight away going shopping and walking around the house but now, day 9 after surgery the top half of my knee is very swollen and sore. I haven’t had much pain ( 2 neurofen in total during the week)-but the swelling above my knee is quite pronounced with only a 10 degree range of movement.(From reading other post operative posts-I’m thinking it might need to be drained??). I Am yet to attend my post operative appointment with my surgeon. But really hope my knee allows me the freedom to exercise and get back to doing all the things I want without pain.
I need to lose about 10-15 kilos and I feel that managing weight must be a significant factor in helping to put the knee under less strain and pressure.
Donna
Donna
You are on the right track. I’ve found that you body has the ability to heal itself if given the right conditions. To this point those conditions have not been met. Let’s get on a call and figure out a strategy for you…Click on the following link so we can get that setup: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ Talk soon, Bill
Oh my…after reading all of your comments I no longer feel alone. I had my arthroscopy only 9 days ago but am so surprised that I am in more pain now than before. My left knee is stiffer, gives way much more than before and is more uncomfortable. People I know were telling me that friends and neighbours etc were back on there feet within days which makes me feel worse. The constant pain and reduced activity levels is really depressing I have had knee problems for about a year now and am so fed up, to top it off my follow up appointment is not for another 5 weeks, aaarrrggghhh.
This is exactly how I feel! My knee doctor seems to have LITERALLY given up, I feel like he thinks I am lying about the pain. I’ve had 3 surgeries on my ACL since 2009. I’m 22 and the doctor’s said I needed to have the surgery if I lived an active lifestyle. I was an avid hiker, I played all sports and was always up. Now, I have done gained 15 pounds and cannot even lay down at night without that horrible pain. Surgery was probably the worst decision I’ve ever made…
Stephanie or anyone else reading this post. DON’T GIVE UP! I CAN HELP! That’s where I was that’s why I developed my program. It works really well, you just need to give it a chance and let me in…Go here and fill out the application: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ We will talk and figure out the strategy for you…Pills, Shots, and surgery is NOT the answer when there’s nothing broken or torn…Bill
I think most of the comments on this page show that the recovery expectations are much too optimistic! I was also convinced I could go back to all my activities within 6-8 weeks. Arthroscopic or not, it is still surgery and you have to give your body a chance to heal without trying to conform to a preset schedule. I am 47 and had arthroscopic surgery on my left knee (meniscus tear) on March 12 this year. I walked out of the OR, was back at work within a week and started physio 2-3 weeks later. Pretty typical. I was back wearing heels within 6 weeks and by early June was dancing again, using cardio machines, golfing and cycling. All was well and progressing nicely. However, it is now December and my knee aches when I lie on the couch at night and sometimes when I am just sitting around, relaxing. I still can’t fully sit on my knees without feeling a pull (like in child’s pose) and it hurts for days after wearing high heels. I am now at the point where I think my expectations have to be managed–I think I might not be able to wear heels the way I used to (I.e., every day) and I wonder if this is not due to doing too much too soon. I will definitely have my knee checked out, but I have to consider I may not be able to do all the things I did before. Please, people, take it easy post-surgery, listen to your body and consider that your lifestyle may need to be different after the surgery. It is a sobering thought, I know, but as we age things will never be the same in any case. I’d rather be able to walk in my old age than run a marathon before 50 (running is totally out of the question now). Good luck everyone.
Sarah,
I feel your pain! I just had a partial menisectomy on December 19 and am also stiff and in pain. I also read that others were back to normal few days after without the use of crutches. I am still using them, although trying to bear weight as not to put my quads into atrophy, although it is not working. I am doing straight leg raises as well as heel slides ( the best I can). I am still so stiff, about only a 60 degree ROM. I’m hoping to get steadily better but am discouraged from what I’ve been reading
On the 20th August 2012 I had both knees operated on. I had the Oxford half knee replacments fitted as this is less invasive than total knee. The hospital used a rapid recovery system loadind the joint’s with a cocktail of drugs making it almost pain free after sugery. Two days after the operation I was discharded and encouraged to walk right away.
About a week after the operation I started finding it difficult to sleep as the leggs seem to have a life of their own, great for walking on, but murder to sleep with, they have pins and needls pricking, spasm’s and ache at night. I now need sleeping tablets and pain killers every night. My surgeon say’s rub hand cream in three times a day but its not improving. Any ideas
I had ACL surgery in 2009, went through therapy and all that. Well, after doctor said I was “completely healed, ready for work”, I was STILL having pain. He advised Motrin. Nothing at all helped the pain, and my knee always locked up and gave out. Almost 2 years later, when pain got unbearable and it gave out constantly, I saw a new doctor. ACL was retorn and I had ACL cadaver replacement surgery in Feb. 2012. After therapy was done and I was released, I STILL occasionally experienced severe, stabbing, debilitating knee pain and still constantly had my constant, painful throbbing pain. He then said the hardware (screws) in my knee needed to be removed, that is what caused pain, went through that surgery in July 2012. It is now Jan. 2012, and I still have severe pain. Doctor has no idea why, and he has basically stopped trying to find out (I’m afraid he thinks I’m lying, I have no idea, or he’s just given up). I am sick and tired of this pain, and recently it has been locking up on me, once again. Ever since I have torn it, I have been in pain. As of now, I cannot get a job, because the pain is so severe. I am only 22 and I am sick of not being able to do any activity, as in grocery shop, clean the house, or work, let alone exercise or play sports (and I was extremely active before). Is there anyone out there that has same problems, or can recommend an idea of what is going on. I am at a loss, and cannot fathom what’s going on. A friend said to go to a neurological doctor, but I don’t know if that would help.
11 days post op menisectomy, prior to surgery all classic symptoms in addition to swelling just above the knee so that it gave the knee cap a hooded look. Doc said it was from the tear. They tried to drain fluid, no luck nothing there so I had surgery. Today I drove to the grocery store and walked with a cart for some exercise and to get me out of the house. Tonight it is so swollen (again like a turtle over the knee) I am sitting here with ice on it wondering if it will ever look normal again.
I had a unicompartmental op fourteen months ago and am suffering from chronic pain which gets worse as the day goes on and is worse when I walk. It is more painful now than it was at four months. My knee is slightly swollen on one side and I cannot sit easily without propping up my leg on a stool. When it heats up as in bed it becomes bright pink and the scar livid. When I go out into cold air it returns to a normal colour though is still painful. I can walk only a very short distance and put ice packs on and off all day. I have had a second opinion from a surgeon who shows me the x-ray ofvmy knee and tells me there is nothing wrong with it. A pain management consultant diagnosed nerve pain and is treating me with amitriptilene, which so far is doing nothing except giving me a dry mouth and constipation. I worry about infection – none is showing in a blood test and they are not keen to do an arthroplasty as it is invasive and therefore carries the possible risk of introducing an infection.
Is there anything else I can do and is there any hope of improvement after so long? Are my symptoms consistent with nerve pain?
Hi Joan
If something hurts than the nerves are being affected. Of course there is lots we can do to get your knee comfortable…
I’d suggest our first step would be to have a conversation so I can get a better idea of how I can help.
Click on the following link and fill out the survey so we can get that call setup.
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Looking forward to speaking with you.
Bill
Joan – From a child like view of the body if it hurts then the nerves are being affected. A big part of what is going on is your body’s tensing up to protect itself from the pain that is feels (which makes it feel worse!) The object is to begin to teach the knee how to feel comfortable again. There’s some crazy stuff that can happen after a surgery like you were sharing about your knee scar. Mine was the only part of my body that sweat! Crazy right? Anyhow there are a few things we could do to help you out. One would be to get into my program “The Comfort Zone” and try it out for a couple of weeks to see how that changes things in your knee. If it does great, if not then let’s get on a call at that point and dig in a little deeper as to what is going on and a strategy we could figure out for you. So here’s your next step. Go here and get the comfort zone: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/ and then let me know how its going in a few weeks…Bill
I had my knee arthroscopy on the 1st of October, 2011 for a torn ACL.
I hurt myself while playing basketball and thought that the surgery would just fix everything in a swish.
15 months have passed since then and I still cant start with my basketball again. It depresses me too much, I cab run but am not permitted to jump by my surgeon yet.
There is still a bit of swelling though its much straighter and can bend quite alot. The only things which drive mad is the pain I feel if I walk around alot and that I cannot jump.
What should I do to make my knee stronger to get back to my game again?
Zoya – There are a couple of things going on with your knee that affect your ability to play basketball. One is the pain and the other is the weakness in your knee. Although they are tied together you can’t necessarily deal with them both at the same time so my belief is you need a 2 step approach. First get your knee out of pain and then second work on strengthening your knee. Do them in the right order and your back on the court quickly. Do them in the wrong order and you’ll be in pain the rest of your life. My suggestion would be to check out my program “The Comfort Zone” and start getting your knee out of pain today. Here’s a link for more information – http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/
Keep me posted as to how this goes for you…
Bill
Knee stiff after surgery,bend only 90 degree since last three year.what to do pls suggest
Rajendra – There’s probably tension going on in your knee from the initial injury and then the surgery. I would suggest you looking into my book, “The Comfort Zone” and working with it for a couple of weeks and then let me know the changes you see. Here’s the link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/ Eager to hear your results! Bill
I had a meniscal tear repaired on December 31,2012. No crutches, Dr had me walking out of the hospital that day, and from then on. Iced it every 2 hours for 20 minutes, and took pain meds PRN. My knee feels great except for where he put the probes in. But my problem is, I have 1 little hole that seems to heal over for several days and then it just pops open, and out pour this thick sticky dark blood, followed by toms of blood tinged fluid. This lasts for days. I sometime have to change the bandage every 2 hours. Whats up!!!
Rosalind – Definitely check with your doctor on that one. That’s beyond my scope of expertise…Bill
Charles
Sounds like its a sign that your body is trying to heal itself. I had experiences like this after my ACL surgery and the itching can get pretty intense. This may take some time and I’d just continue doing what you are doing.
Bill
Interesting GURU I now remember the Itching you’re talking about when I had my right knee done. So glad I found this site… says the fairly “former” 52 year old athlete. ha
@Sophia – anytime
that’s what I’m here for!
what am I going backwards or what?? Go up a few stairs and bingo.. back to the pain and aggravation…. it’s crazy!! I can deal with the tear healing.. medial meniscus but I’m very confused at the MCL sprain and the bruised bone…. the pain I get is deep in my knee front and center… it wakes me at night Ice doesn’t help that’s when I know i”m in trouble….. I was getting better then visited a friend who had steps… are you telling me going up the steps put me back to square one? geeze as I sit with my leg on a balance ball with ICE…. I must say it hurts behind my knee too.. I find that icing it back there helps a great deal………..this is getting old.. very old
Sophia – I totally understand your frustration – I’ve been there! Check out my website – there is hoppe – read and research and shift your thinking to tackle this head on. Here’s my work on how to get out of knee pain now! – there is so much more! Keep reading and keep in touch. You can do this. – Bill
about 2 yrs or so ago i tore my meniscus really bad and NO doctor wanted to touch me because of the surgery being really risky on me because im on bloodthinners and i am now 31 yrs old. they thought i was going to die and none wanted to touch me so after ayr of pain and swelling and not being able to walk without a cane and basically climbing up my stairs and slidding down on my butt i finally found a doctor willing to take a risk.. needless to say i ended up tearing it again before surgery and because it took SO long to find someone to do the surgery it healed and tore twice as bad well almost a yr into recovery and i have non stop pain. my knee swells and whenever i sleep and i extend my leg and sleep that way i wake up because i cannot bend my leg and the pain is horrible i had a lot of fluid in y knee before surgery and idk i didnt think id be in this much pain i needed and wanted the surgery but even walking i have problems i cant climb up stairs i have to use my other leg to step and basically follow up with the bad leg… is there any hope i can lookforward too?? am i going to have to have surgery again?? what do i have to look forward to in 5 yrs?? can i rehurt it???
Shelly – There are a lot of factors that are going into play creating your knee situation. I believe if you begin to setup the conditions so your body can heal itself there’s no reason in 5 years, even sooner you could be living the life you can only dream of right now. If this is something you are serious about then I can help you get there. Just go fill out the following short survey so we can setup a time to talk and get you started: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ Looking forward to helping you out…Bill
I had ACLR surgery in Dec. 2012, and still can’t straighten or bend my right knee completely. I also have buckling and a catch in my knee, exactly as before surgery. I am still in pt and he has no idea what’s going on. The knee is still swollen and I am at 130 degree bend, any suggestions?
Kam – Start working with my book, “The Comfort Zone” and let me know how its going in a couple of weeks. Here’s a link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/
At least I don’t feel alone! Had a tear repaired & debris “cleaned” from my left knee. My knee cap was also malaligned. That was Dec. 20, 2012 – I’ve been “released” by my doctor & the PT stopped, with instructions to stretch & do some basic exercises. I haven’t had a pain free day, and every step holds a surprise. Recently swelling starts above my knee, feels heavy & looks like a “roll” – Usually it clears up over night. Haven’t done anything wild, other than walking when suddenly felt a tug & catch toward the front of the left shin. Shoot me now! I ice & elevate, but doesn’t help. Keep thinking something else is wrong, but maybe it’s just me. Not doing anything stronger than Aleve, and what makes it extra special is I now don’t have medical insurance. Thanks – I felt the need to whine!
I had arthroscopic surgery to clean up a torn meniscus and ACL on Dec 16th on my left knee. My knee is still very swollen, painful, and cannot be straightened fully. When standing, my knee is on an angle compared to my right knee. I am unable to walk normally still and my knee snaps and still feels like its going to collapse pretty frequently. I’m seeing the surgeon for a 2nd follow up this week and am not sure what to ask him. I am beginning to wonder if my knee will ever recover.
Diane – What did the doctor do for the ACL? Was it torn initially? Was it repaired? Let me know what your doctor says after your second follow up…Bill
Diane – Was the ACL initially torn? Was it replaced or just cleaned up? Keep me posted as to how it goes after see your surgeon for your 2nd follow up…Bill
I have the same problems, my surgery was 12/4/12
I am on week 5 from artho-surgery for two torn meniscus in the left knee, scraped arthritis from knee cap and removal of lose cartilage. Injury occured late fall, so no activity since Thanksgiving. I so badly want to get back to the gym, spinning classes, walking the dog…and would LOVE to not have this limp! I was sure by now I would be back to normal. Dr. said 4-6 weeks. I had very muscular legs, not so much now. Spring is approaching and I just want to ride my bike. Why is the recovery so long??? Everything I read from others in this post is similar to my experiences. To high of expectations? Oh, is this what turning 50 means? OUT OF PATIENCE!
Jill – Recovery takes longer when the conditions for your body to recover are not met. I can help with that…Let’s setup a time to talk and figure out a strategy for you so we can get your expectations in line with your results – Here’s the link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ talk soon…Bill
Had my medial miniscus repaired 10 weeks ago and my pain level is almost as high as it was pre surgery. I went back to work at 5 weeks. I think I just overuse the knee. I eat pain pills in the evening.
Hi… email me about your yoga therapy too.. I had laterial and medial done on right knee april 2012… feels good now.. however in Nov of 2012 I had a sharp pain while getting ready to walk a few miles and my left leg TWISTED pigeon toed…. I tore my medial dislocated my knee cap sprained my mcl and bruised a bone. Sounds worse than it actually is… surgeon said rehab had been done cortosone done he is very conservative and NEVER would operate unless necessary.( chief of staff at ivy league hospital ) other surgeon for right knee retired. Anywho had surgery on left it was three weeks yesterday. First day walked on cane and everything has been going smoothly, excercises at home surgeon said you know the drill. However I notice that the last few days it has been aching like a you know what. Still a lil swollen 15% he said when I was last there and he wants it to go down on it’s own I see him first week in april. I guess I wonder why it’s bothering me a lil bit more than it has. of course increased walking lil by lil but I’m always throwing it up on a huge excercise ball and icing it. Anyway the yoga I am very interested in…. thanks again. PS in addition I have noticed I’ve had to use a pain pill in the middle of the night sometimes. not always but sometimes and that hasn’t happened since I first had surgery. I tried a few time to NOT take one however the last couple nights the leg woke me a few times so I took it and it pulled the pain right away. I had a blood clot prior to my first surgery on my right knee which they caught before surgery, I never had it warm or swollen or red it was just an ache… I have it similar now but honestly I’ve been doing the leg stretches to check on my own and fully believe it’s my imagination. I used lovenox for the first two weeks after surgery… .. Yoga please thanks newsgrl@aol.com thank you!!
Hi, I had my second torn meniscus repaired on September21,2012. The first few months it was great, the last 3 months, swelling, drained, cortisone shot and less than a month later all swollen up again, stiff, popping especially going down stairs like I never had it corrected. Majority of swelling is on outer part of knee and right under my knee cap. Ortho doc recommended Supratz injections, not sure what to do next, any suggestions?
Hi, I had my second torn meniscus repaired on September21,2012. The first few months it was great, the last 3 months, swelling, drained, cortisone shot and less than a month later all swollen up again, stiff, popping especially going down stairs like I never had it corrected. Majority of swelling is on outer part of knee and right under my knee cap. Ortho doc recommended Supratz injections, not sure what to do next, any suggestions? I can be reached at stevemaryrose@comcast.net
Hi Mary – I am going to recommend the same thing to you that I did to Jill. Let’s go ahead and setup a time to talk and figure out a strategy for you so we can get your expectations in line with your results – Here’s the link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Talk soon… Bill
Hi Mary – I am going to recommend the same thing to you that I did to Jill. Let’s go ahead and setup a time to talk and figure out a strategy for you so we can get your expectations in line with your results – Here’s the link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Talk soon… Bill
hey guys..I’m 26 and had my first cartlidge op a year ago..since then I’ve had another athroscopy but this time on my Meniscus both on my right leg. I currently own a salon and apart from most of the rehab work and icing etc its been 6months since my last op and my knee is stil so sore and everytime im standin cutting hair or long walking I feel these sudden cracks in the affected area that don’t always hurt but when they do god damn!
Unless i wear this neoprene brace i cant even leave the house. I havnt been playing sports since last year now and just feel like I’m giving up more and more everyday on this constant demoralising frustrating scenario. Reading through I can see you guys have had the same issues i hope you guys can help this 26yr old find his mojo lol!! My email is hbk166@hotmail.com. if anyone has any advice please feel free to drop it in my inbox. I currently take glucosamine n vitamin c and d tablets. Thaank you!!
Amit – I would begin working with my program, “The Comfort Zone” for a few weeks and keep me posted as to how it goes. It helped me at 30yrs old find my mojo!
Here’s the link: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/ Regards Bill
Tore my acl about a year ago doc said i should do a cleanup instead of gettin a replacement
Because i was not athletic well a year later my knee feels like its on fire, swollen and hurting really bad considering having it recontructed by a different surgeon what do you think
Gwendolyn – I would ask you, “What do you want?” Bill
Hi I found out i had ruptured my acl 9 years ago skiing when the surgeon came and gave me the good news – no damage to the cartiledge bad news -I had ruptured my acl.
I was early forties & no longer doing competitive sport so got a knee brace & continued with life
Skiing, tennis, cycling,swimming! Then pushed it too far & tore my meniscus. Had a consultation with my surgeon (who i had seen 9 yrs earlier). My thoughts were that I had “managed” my knee all this time & now wanted to be able to just “do” . had acl reconstruction 4-months ago Knew it would be a year recovery before I could ski again ( my motivation) but I’m Doing great – walking & swimming without pain so go for it but remember that you have to be realistic & take your time to recover.
Hi Linda,
Thanks for informing us about your situation. I am glad that your cartilage is fine. What I believe about the ACL is that with your commitment in putting efforts on exercises, you will get back soon. Why don’t I set up a time for you to talk with Bill- please go to the following link, fill out the short questionnaire and schedule the time to talk to Bill as soon as possible.
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Looking forward to speaking with you.
Regards
Adam on Behalf of Bill
I had surgery on January 8, 2013 for a my dr’s words, ” a severe torn medial meniscus tear” and found in surgery was a degenerative lateral tear along with some “shaving” of the knee cap. I torn my medial meniscus a year ago on April 2, 2012 but because it was a workmens comp. issue took very long to get everything in place including a second opinion for the surgery. I’m a teacher of young elementary school children so I had some restrictions at work but not enough to make the initial tear even worse over the months. NOW, almost 12 weeks ( 3 months) later I still have extream pain and a limp with every step! The limp is due to pain because if I’m on meds I don’t limp but pay the price when the meds wear off. I have been doing PT religiously all along but it’s been slow at times due to too much pain. I use to do yoga so I’m flexible and can flex my knee fairly well now and have worked on my quads and they are stronger. However, I can’t believe I’m still in this much pain after 3 months. I am in fairly good shape , not overweight and I’m 58 years in age. Icing and ibuprophen do virtually noting to qull the pain. I can’t walk more then 1-2 blocks without severe pain and can’t return to teaching even under restrictions because my dr thinks I should only return when it’s completely healed. After reading all these posts I don’t know if that day will ever come. The PAIN is WORSE then before my surgery like others have stated. The inside of my knee ( medial) is the main location of the pain both Pre and post op surgery- only worse! I am running out of patients and full of fear that I will never be able to return to the job I love! I need whatever advice and support anyone can offer. Everyone ( all professionals involved) seem to say the same thing. “Work harded, your right where you should be, don’t use the cane to walk, you will get there!” I’m not so sure! This much pain should not be happening 3 months out!
Hey Leslie, sorry to hear about your severe tear and subsequent surgery. I know surgery is necessary sometimes and the good thing is that you can recover and have strong knees again after! It can and will happen. Go to my site and review as much information as you possibly can. If you feel you need to set an appointment with me – please go here: – also I have a product page that will give you other options. Most of the information on my site is free and it will help you tremendously! Here’s my program on how to get out of knee pain NOW! – Please keep in touch and don’t hesitate to reach out again – this is exactly why I am here – I want to help! Wishing you well – Bill
I have just gone through hell with my thigh following an arthroscope on my knee. The pain started on me three weeks after the op. My thigh is collapsed it looks like the top muscle is dead. I would feel hot and cramps on the thigh and lose nights of good sleep with this pain. My thigh has become incompatible to the knee and this is only my fifth week after the op but the knee has gone fine with some minor pains occassionally that i often treat with ice. Is there any promise on my thigh?
Musa – so sorry to hear that you have been through hell and back! You are in complete power to do everything you need to help your healing process. I want to encourage you to research more and learn just how to do it. It’s exactly what I had to do. Go here to learn how to get out of knee pain now: – keep in touch – Bill
Now I’m getting out the big guns…. arnica montana… arnica ointment.. and boswellia. Like I said I had the two tears in the right knee fixed and did rehab but never full finished then with that spring in my step out the back door and bingo…….sharp right knee pain left leg goes inward and here I am screwed again……………geeze
Good start!
i had my acl reconstruction and meniscal repair 25 days ago. i started walking without brace and crutches after 18 days. everything was going fine until the day i ent for a long walk and climb up and down stairs. since then there has been a squeaking sound from my joint and i was so scared. i went to see my doctor and asked him if i had retorn my acl. he did the anterior drawer and lachman and he said it is fine. the joint didnt make any noise while i was there. but it creaks like a door everytime i walk.. very scared. there s no pain or extra swelling. in fact i ve nt been taking pain killers at all since last 7 days. really worried.
Hey Jina – so sorry to hear about your discomfort and complicaations – that really sucks! If you want you can go ahead and make a free consult with me on my website here: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/ We could talk about working together. Or you can go to my website and search by topic for the issues you are dealing with. There is a wealth of information there! ex) post knee surgery: http://thekneepainguru.com/?s=post+knee+surgery Please keep in touch – Bill
Hello,
I had knee arthroscopic surgery one and a half years ago on my right knee due to irregular tracking of the patella. Recovery was very slow at first and i started to get my normal range of movement again; but even after one and a half years my right knee hasn’t been the same. It feels very weak, especially where they removed the bone spur to avoid the tracking and inflammation it caused me. The scar is very sensitive and i avoid contact sports because of the scar area and my right knee not having enough strength.
My left knee patella track irregularly aswell and it causes me some discomfort especially sitting down or after activity. It feels stronger than my right knee which is why im hesitant in getting the left operated on.
Ocean water swimming/ hydrotherapy seems to be the most effective types of recovery i can do to reduce overall joint/ligament pain around lateral collateral ligaments, meniscus and the tibia. What is the best way to get the right knee back to full strength ? Because pain is developing in the lateral collateral ligaments and meniscus due to its weakness from operation. Secondly with the left knee, how should I go about reversing its tracking. Should i tape it regularly ?
Its been difficult mentally and physically for me the last 1 and a half years. Anyone advice would be much appreciated.
Regards, Sam
Hey Sam, Sorry to hear about your pain… That’s awesome that ocean water swimming works well for you. I totally understand your pain re:) the mental and physical struggle this sort of thing brings on! It’s not easy but it does not have to be this hard either. Go to my web site – yes there are things you can do to heal your own knees. Search in the search box by issue and trouble you are having – then go from there. After working with the information and techniques – see how you feel. You can also check out my product page – it will give you further approaches. I want to help in any way I can – but most of all I want to encourage you! You can turn this thing completely around – I know! I did! And so have many others! I wish you well – Bill
Many of these knee surgeries do not end well. I had a torn meniscus and he found Plica issue and of course I never had a plica problem they removed it. So now I am 4 months post op still having issues. I can do the bike or elliptical but it hurts afterwards. I was just getting into some weights extensions, presses, and it became inflamed. I cannot run around with my 4 year old son. In my case I should have left it alone i would have been better off as the outcome is worse than before. They never tell you this when you go in for a consult its always you will be ok after you can do what you want after. This whole thing is unethical as they get paid to do your surgery so they have a bias. If the surgery doesn’t help the patient much then what is the point. They should not get paid unless the patient is satisfied.
Hey Paul, I could not relate to you more! I’m real sorry to hear about your post operative discomfort and let me tell you – being able to run around with your son is top priority – kids are the best. Reading what you wrote only encourages me to keep doing what I’m doing. This push for surgery is so upsetting. Yes there are times and places when surgery is needed and greatly appreciated, but it’s not every day. Things would turn out a whole different way – no – the whole medical model would be turned upside down if doctors only got paid if the patient was satisfied with the healing result! Please keep in touch and make sure to use my methods for the point that you are at right now. The best idea is to go on my website and search by symptom in the search box – just to get more familiar with my methods and gain helpful knowledge. The strategies and tools are what you need to focus on for healing. After working with this information and practicing for a couple of weeks – please get back in touch and let me know how things are going. I wish you all the best and talk to you soon Paul… Bill
I feel somewhat the same way about them telling you that you’ll be ok and my doc said don’t baby it, i’m like all this pain and swelling and bad as i want to be healed from this second surgery that was suppose to help and now you lookig at me like it’s not that bad and it’s all in your head, hey get paid real good from your insurance company then they whole attitude change once you let them know that you’re still hurting not fair to patiience at all. blood pressure be up from pain and inflammation and we’re the one’s have to deal with the results seems to me like your own your own now i’ve been paid, and i understand that you need to paid but where is the loyalty to your patience anymore, i will continue to pray to god for my healing i wish now i would have seen these post first before i had the second one.
4 weeks after my surgery for a radial tear in my meniscus. After having the meniscus removed and a bunch of lose bodies of cartilage sucked out of my knee, most of my pain comes from the lower leg near the shin. I can tell the knee is slowly improving while this area continues to inhibit pain when I try to walk. Considering this part of my leg was in pain when I tore my meniscus what can I do to try and alleviate this pain?
Had meniscus surgery in December today I jumped a hurdle and when I landed my knee buckled it felt just like it did when it tore. Does this mean it tore again?
Had meniscus repair in December today I tried to jump a hurdle but when I landed my knee buckled is this a sign that it is torn again?
also swollen and throbbing
Could it still buckle drone where they trimmed it down?
From*
What should I do?
Hello.I had arthroscopic knee surgery for part.torn meniscus Fri.April 2013.Four very painful days past and had my follow up with the doctor today.When he unwrapped my knee not only there was major swelling,it was full of blood.He told me there had to be a twitch? of a vain during
the surgery last fri. resulting in bleeding and significant swelling.(don’t know what to make of that).Told me this was an unfortunate setback.Suggested to drain it asap.Came back with a huge syringe,rubbed some iodine and told me I’m going to feel a pinch.The next 30 seconds was the most painful experience I have ever been through.I couldn’t help but to start crying from pain.No numbness,no anesthetic,no nothing.(was that normal?).When he was finally done draining my knee he said he will be back in a few minutes to give me time to re-coup.As I sat up I could see my knee was still swollen (obviously not like before).Not to mention the syringe was just laying there on his counter and the sink full of blood.(Did I really need to see this after what I just went through?)
Not comforting at all.Don’t know what to make of all this.Is this all normal procedure ? A few minutes later the doctor returned and told me to try and stand on it to see how it feels.(are you kidding me).I told him I’d rather not put 190 pounds on this knee at this very moment.As you wish he told me .Recommended 2-3 days rest and I should start to see some improvement .Personally,I hope no one goes through what I experienced today.Any advice,comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated….Michael.
Michael,
I wouldn’t be able to speak on what is normal procedure however it doesn’t sound like anything I would wish on anyone. Hopefully what the doctor did addressed the “unfortunate setback” and now your body will be able to heal what is going on. Before I go into more on your knee it would be important to know did the syringe draining of your knee address the issue? Depending on the answer to this question I have two completely different paths you would need to take. Look forward to your response. Bill
WOW! i do understand you 110% i had the same thing done to me 3 times over a course of 2 weeks after surgery i had Jan 2013 and I am still suffering my knee is still swollen and i am being told this is normal i am still trying to find WHY!! is my knee still this inframed!! I hope you have a speedy recovery keep your head up!
Hey everyone…. I just had a TTT (Tibial Tubercle Transfer) with an OATS procedure to help my right knee. It was tough in the first few weeks, and I’m actually loving my PT. I’m just now getting to 67% flexion and I’m at -7 extension, so still have some work to do. My question is, has anyone out there had this type of surgery, and if so, have you had any infection? I just noticed the last few days I’ve had pus coming out of the incision and it always feels like its on fire or kind of prickling. Also some pain in my calf. I have called the doctor, and am supposed to go to see him soon, but I’m a little nervous about what they may have to do. Any suggestions?
Stephanie, With any surgery there is always a risk of an infection. That is why so many people only choose surgery as a last resort. Definitely talk with your doctor and see what they have to say…Bill
Hi I had arthroscopy surgery for miniscal tears on my right knee 9 weeks ago. Cannot straighten my leg so my knee sticks out and can only bend it 30degrees. Feels like I have a metal plate in my knee when I walk on it. I am still limping. Nighttime is hard as cannot get comfortable. Been having PT for over 6 weeks with no improvement. If I sit on floor with legs out straightish I cannot lift right leg off he floor. Wondering if I need 2nd opinion?
Debbie,
Odds are your knee is still protecting itself from the injury and subsequent surgery. We need to create some comfort in your knee so it feels safe supported and listened to. This way it will begin to let go of the tension so you can begin getting movement in your knee and your leg. You will probably find some tremendous value in my program, “The Comfort Zone” — Here’s a link with more information: http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/ Keep me posted as to how it goes…Bill
I am about 100 pounds overweight, so I started watching what I ate and started exercising. Lost 25 pounds so far but in the process have injured my left knee. Went to an orthopedic doctor and had an MRI done. The results show I have a complex tear of the meniscus, two tears actually. I guess that’s what they mean by complex. He says I have some arthritis but not bad. I am scheduled to have meniscus surgery in 3 weeks but after reading all these comments I am afraid its going to do more harm then good, especially considering my age, 42, and weight. Luckily I have a desk job so I should be able to go back to work with no problems. I don’t really have a lot of pain now, more aches, and I cant straighten my knee when I walk. Its more annoying than anything. I’m wondering if surgery is really my best option or will this heal on its own if I do strengthening exercise in my legs over the next several months? My knee cap is also misaligned in this same leg, but the doctor doesn’t seem to concerned about that.
Hi Tricia,
Thank you for your question. Sometimes surgery is an option especially if you are looking at a complex tear however you would still want to address underline issue in your knee regardless if you chose for the surgery or not. Strengthening exercise is not necessarily going to heal what’s going in your meniscus or as far as misaligned in the leg. You may want to consider working with my program comfort zone.
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/comfort-zone-stretches/
Regards
Adam on behalf of Bill
Hello,
It is a week today since I had surgery for a medial tear of the meniscus in my left knee along with the removal of a cyst in the knee. I will return to see the Otho next week for a followup appointment. As of yesterday my knee is very hot although not red or oozing. Is this just a part of the recovery? It is also swollen, stiff and uncomfortable when I try to ‘hobble’ around the house. The feeling is as if it is full of something inside and through to the back of my knee…fluid I’m guessing.
Any suggestions as to help myself more would be appreciated. I have been sitting with my leg elevated with ice packs.
Hi Jillian,
Thanks for your question. You must continue following your doctor’s orders. There’s all sorts of things we can do to help you get your knee back in shape. Let’s setup a time to talk and figure out a strategy for you and discuss your doctor’s opinion on your injury.
Here’s a link to a short application so we can get you on the schedule:
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Looking forward to speaking with you.
Regards
Adam on Behalf of Bill
Hey Dr. Knee Pain Guru.
Was browsing and searching any site with info that could help me, and this seemed to be a good place to ask a question.
I am 25, I tore my meniscus on May 22, and had surgery to repair it on the 29th. (I want to add that I had very minor tears about once a month for the half year before the meniscus tear. Not sure if they were “minor tears”, but they always popped out and in within a few seconds, and I was at least 90%, still able to run and play sports.) My OS said my repair required 6-7 stitches.
The one week after surgery is coming up. And my knee refuses to be straightened. It goes as far is 145-150 degrees, but it wont ever go the full 180. It hurts when I try to do it. Should I be worried about this, or is this a common thing post-op?
Hi Kevin,
Thanks for the question and trust in our program. Please take your doctor’s advise on your particular case first, however there are all sorts of questions that pop into my head about your knee. Let’s setup a time to talk so we can get a solid strategy for you moving forward as you heal.
Here’s a link to short application so we can setup a time to talk:
http://thekneepainguru.com/lp/knee-recovery-program/free-introductory-session/questionnaire/
Looking forward to speaking with you!
Regards
Adam on Behalf of Bill
I am having a very hard time with recovery I took a fall on some stairs in Dec 2011. I had meniscus tear on the medial and lateral they were repaired on 1-10-13 along with bone shaving and some other stuff he did inside my knee it felt better the first few days after surgery well when i went to have my stitches removed on 1-15-13 my knee was so swollen that i could not even pick my leg up 2 inches! and was very painful when i got to the doctors office they put me in a room and the nurse asked me why i could not get on the table I told her i was in too much pain and my leg would not bend.she tried to bend it and i screamed! so she went and got the doc he looked at it and told me i had blood on my knee so he stuck me with a very large needle and pulled out 6oz of blood&fluid! it felt better by late night but it swelled up again a week later i went back and doc drained it again but this time i got no relief it swelled again a few days later i went back in and was then admitted to the hospital my doctor came and took culture samples that night and went back into the knee the next morning to clean it ont i was on very strong IV anti-biotics for my 10 day stay in the hospital they could not find what caused the infection at all so I was released and went home with PICC line in my are to continue IV anti-biotics for another 8 days well my knee is still very inflamed i am in PT but my ROM is very limited i have had this surgery done on this knee in 2007 and 2008 and was down only 3 months i still can’t straighten my leg out or bend it past a 90 degree angle i am in a lot of pain taking morphine and percs i use ketoflex 2x a day i have PT 2x a week I also am in the gym another 3x a week including a heated salt water pool
but nobody seem to know why i am not healing like I should it is very depressing i feel like i have no life and i am doing everything they ask me to do and then some but no one seem to think that this is a problem but me i just don’t know what to do or where to turn for help