Knee Replacement

Well, I had my appointment with the specialist last week & it's worse than I thought - the only thing that can be done is a knee replacement.

Not looking forward to it, but I can't see any other viable choice - the cartilage is gone & there is severe arthritis as a result. It's either get it done now, or wait a couple of years until I can't walk any more.

Lynda - thank you so much for your support and info; very much appreciated!

Ouch! but I'd also get it done.
Good luck.

Thinking of you - have you any idea on the length of the waiting list?

On the plus side, it'll be a lot easier to cope with now that we're in the new house! Walk-in shower, downstairs living area, etc.. And you'll have me and dad to help!

Not sure about the waiting times, but apparently not hugely long.

I'll know more at the next appointment.

Caryll wrote:Not sure about the waiting times, but apparently not hugely long.

I'll know more at the next appointment.

My mums 90yr friend has had both knees & a hip done. My step dad a knee, soon to be two knees....Mums friend wants the other hip done. It is painful but the relief after seems amazing if you stick religiously to the therapy.

You're right about cartilage; once it's gone it's gone. We are so lucky in this day and age that our clever doctors have knee replacements available, and I am so glad that I had mine done. It's not a 20 year-old's knee but SO much better than it was before.

I'm most happy to help, Caryll, and you know where I am if you ever want to discuss anything.

Thanks, Lynda.

At the moment I'm trying a new cream called (I think) Flexisec. It's drug free and apparently 'binds' itself to the bone creating a temporary cushion. It doesn't kill pain, but increases mobility a little.

It appears to have a little benefit, but it's very expensive!

I've never heard of it so looked it up on the internet. And yes it is expensive! Very slightly cheaper through Amazon.

I'll be very interested to learn how you get on with it as I am tempted, despite the cost. My main problems are stairs and getting off chairs (yes, even with my new knee ), leverage basically, so if it helps with that I'd be interested in trying it.

oh, it's Flexiseq, btw.

I've only been using it for 2 days & I missed one application! However, although they pain/discomfort is still there, the knee is slightly less stiff, if you see what I mean.

Could be psychosomatic? I don't know - I'll reserve judgement for a week or so.