"Ongoing Knee Replacement Pain"

Sharon
November 16, 2017

Hi, I'm suffering from ongoing knee replacement pain. I had a TKR in May 2016 followed by MUA as the knee would not bend. I’ve followed the exercises programme and still have stiffness and pain on weightbearing.

My GP has told me to use a walking aid as I have a limp and the knee and hip on my other side are beginning to wear.

Is this it for me or is there still room for improvement after 18 months of knee replacement pain? Thanks

Chloe Wilson - Knee Pain Explained Team
November 16, 2017

Hi Sharon. I'm really sorry to hear about your ongoing knee replacement pain. Couple of questions for you before I can answer. How long ago was the MUA? And have you been having physio? If so, what has it involved? Chloe

Sharon
November 17, 2017

Hi, I had MUA in July 2016 and after that have managed to bend the knee to over 110 degrees. I can bend and straighten and have built the muscles in both knees following stretching and strengthening exercises on your website.

I last saw the NHS Physio in December 2016 and have had private ultrasound with a Physio who also runs Pilates class which I go to every week. There’s no problem with my operated knee until I put weight through it, hence the limp.

I am 61 and not overweight. I think the GP telling me that no further improvement has probably knocked my confidence, although after 18 months of knee replacement pain? Thanks for reading my story. If you could suggest a plan for me I would be so grateful. Sharon.

Chloe Wilson - Knee Pain Explained Team
November 16, 2017

It sounds like you are doing all the right things. People do go on to make progress for up to 2 years after a total knee replacement.

Are you doing any exercises to build the strength of the glutes muscles e.g. the clam and bridging exs? I would recommend working hard on strengthening the glutes as they play a big part in stabilising your knee.

Another option would be to have some hydrotherapy where you could work on weight-bearing exercises in the pool where the support of the water reduces the force through the joint, which usually allows you to work harder with less knee replacement pain. Hope that helps. Chloe

Sharon
November 19, 2017

Hi Chloe, thanks for replying. Your suggestions are really helpful to me. I do the clam and bridging in Pilates level 1 class and at home so I will continue that and do more repetitions and maybe try the advanced exercises in your book. I will also look into hydrotherapy.

I definitely feel more positive again now! I don't think surgeons realise the journey after this surgery. Really appreciate your input. Thanks again, Sharon

Chloe Wilson - Knee Pain Explained Team
November 18, 2017

You are definitely doing the right things. Once you can do 30 reps of the Clam stage 1, try doing stage 2 - very similar but you start with your feet lifted up. The change in position works the muscle much harder.

Read through chapters 21 and 22 in the knee arthritis book again - there are loads of top tips on knee replacement pain, exercises and how to progress them there. Keep up the good work. Chloe