First Day After TKR: What To Expect 

Had one both knees replaced one month apart (May and June 2022). Surgical pain was moderate at worst, PT was the toughest part. I was able to walk my daughter down the aisle with no limp in early October and went skiing in January. I’m back to walking 18 when I golf. My legs feel 10 years younger. I feel like my surgeon gave me my life back.

I just had a total knee replacement on Tuesday. Is really not bad, is just the pain and swelling. But I watch one of your video you guys said control my pain, stay on top of my meds. And that’s what im doing . So my advice is PRAY BEFORE YOU GO SURGERY AND THE GOOD LORD WILL HELP YOU THRU❤️😇❤️

I've had both TKRs done in the past 14 months (plus 1 THR). By far, the worst part was the PT and pressing myself to the limit. But other than the PT, I had very little pain and healed great and am fully active today. A friend had a TKR just one week after my first one. He refused to push himself and said he would do nothing if it hurt. He claimed the body would heal on its own and was not designed to be in pain. To this day, he has very little flex in his knee and is in pain with every step. He brought this on himself. When the surgeon and PTs tell you to go all in, they are saying it from knowledge and experience. I am glad I chose to listen to that knowledge and experience.

I have had both knees replaced and I agree with this video! But my knees feel very good now (one year post op) and it was totally worth it. Thanks to all ortho docs who dedicate their career to helping people move better. I am also a PT, so I have helped others through it. Hang in there folks, you can do it!

Dr. Zalzal was my surgeon for both my knees. Excellent doctor! Can’t say enough about his candour, skill and now with these videos, I see his humour and fun side. They are right about everything they say, but depression and a feeling of isolation should be mentioned. My husband was there for me totally, supported me, took me to every appointment, but I still felt alone, sad, cried a lot. Maybe it was the narcotics? I also didn’t feel great about having each knee done until about week 6, then I felt great, optimistic, and hopeful. After both knees done, healed, my world has opened up and life is great! That, and a good stool softener...!

Two additional items to warn patients about: one, if your surgeon uses a nerve block you will feel some period of no pain after the surgery - ,Maybe even 24 hours. However, when the nerve block wears off you might be slammed with pain. Make sure you’ve started the pain meds ahead of this point in time. Two, icing according to instruction given by the surgeon really helped.

I had my right knee done Nov. 2 and it's been a great experience actually. My surgeon did it robotically I really haven't had much pain and the only "discomfort I experienced was more like muscle pulling above and below the knee. I have done the PT exercises and will be done in a couple of weeks. I'm a bit stiff in the morning, but like an old car, once I get moving I'm fine. I am having my left knee done the end of September and will be interested how this goes. I had watched your videos before my surgery and am very glad I did. They were a great help.

Thank you for the great videos! I had a TKR in January and could not be happier with the result. I urge anyone waiting for surgery to see a physiotherapist for pre-op exercises - I attribute my rapid recovery to being well prepared before surgery, and doing the post op exercises faithfully afterward. There is pain and discomfort for a few weeks but keep reminding yourself with each day you are healing and getting stronger.

Had my right knee done at 57. I was walking the same day but at that time they would keep you several days. I took no narcotics after the first day and relied on Tylenol and cannabis. I pushed hard but with caution. Once healed I heavily kneaded the scar to work out the scar tissue. Five years later I have over 135 degrees of motion and have no pain in that knee with the exception of occasional pain from my kneecap (once every couple of months) but the kneecap was never resurfaced. I used a cane to walk and had a handicap sticker for parking. Now, I can walk all I want and usually park at the far end of the parking lot for exercise. No regrets and I must give credit to an excellent surgeon and team. It was my second best surgery. My best surgery was my 2019 kidney transplant. 😊

Both knees done. I love them. Used ice for the little bit of pain I had. I was in PT before they sent me home the afternoon of my surgeries Walked with walker to my bedroom at home. PT 3x per week and at home. I know everyone has different levels of pain tolerance but I’m lucky to be tolerant of high pain levels. Now walking 3-4 miles a day. I’m truly blessed. If you are having knee surgery, hang in there. Your life is going to change for the better. 🤗

Doing the right knee in four days. These videos are very helpful.

I had double full knee replacement in December. I watched this the day before my surgery. Thank you! It helped me get through my first 24-48 hours once I got home. I had to do it without any pain meds due to horrible side effects, but I made it through and now a little over 5 months post op I’m very happy i did it the way I did. I can now get on the floor and play with my grandchildren and actually take a walk without being in pain.

This format is fabulous. Straight doc talk.

I’m day 7 post knee replacement. My first 2 days in hospital was my body not liking the medication. Oxy made my blood pressure drop when they went to get me up to walk on day 0. Change medication to Percocet on day one and the same thing happened. Blood pressure dropped to 70/40 when I would stand up. The 3rd medication worked and I felt like a new person. Crazy pain but got under control. Then I could finally do physical therapy and go home. My next hurdle after not being able to pee and getting catheter 2x was constipation I went through utter hell passing my first poop to the point of screaming in pain trying to pass that turd. I am feeling good now and working my knee vigorously to get range of motion before the first physical therapy appointment after leaving the hospital. They could not get me in for 5 days so thanks to the information I got from the hospital physical therapist and your video on what to do after knee replacement I am getting a pretty good range of motion week one. Thanks for the videos

Had one done on 3rd of Jan. Worked on strengthening and mobility pre-OP, worked on post operation PT. This led to a really good outcome. The worst part was not being able to find a comfortable way to sleep.

I am 2 weeks post op on my second knee replacement and this video is spot on. They provide great insight and advice. I just shared this with a friend who has a TKR consult scheduled for tomorrow.

This was very timely. My wife’s TKR was just today right about the time you dropped the video. It’s reassuring to hear that her experience is typical. I am glad you didn’t wait another day to do this one.

Thanks for this. It has eased my apprehensions some . I have watched your exercises to do before knee replacement and I’m working with your recommendations daily.

I had my second knee replacement 14 August 2023. Left knee was replaced 10 March 2022. The first day I came too and my right leg was numb from hip to toes for 8 hours at least if not 12 hours. The anesthetist used too much anesthetic in the epidural. No problem with eating. Next was my bowels would not open had to have a catheter. (In fact everyone in the ward of 4 had the same issue all had different operations). Whilst numb I was got out of bed by physiotherapist and squatting down bent my knee in reflection past 90 degrees. Day 2 was pain full my guts were not working and I eat on day one. I had the worst constipation ever. Exceptionally pain full. Right knee carried on improving. Went up and down stairs on crutches. Constipation was cured with so much laxative in every orifice. Day 3 getting about on crutches and I was discharged. 5 weeks later I had an appointment with my Orthopedic surgeon. 120 degrees of reflection and 5 degrees short of getting my leg out straight. Wound had healed up very nicely. Knee was still swollen and red and I was discharged with the option of further consultation if required. I was walking unaided. Start of week 6 I had watched a youtube video on how to straighten my knee and practiced the exercise once reduced the straightening to 2.5 degree. Had a physiotherapy appointment and discharged with the option of returning any time in the next 9 months. Compared to my left knee recovery the right knee recovery was traumatic, painful and fast. For my left knee I was still using crutches for months after. I presume it was my experience of the left knee replacement which made my right knee recovery so fast. As I had my reclining stationary bike in place and I had a full body panel for red light therapy. Using the red light panel twice a day (12 hours apart) expenetionaly improved my recovery. I started using the bike in week 2 just going back and forward. It only took 2 sessions before completing a complete cycle. By week 5 I was doing 50 revs per minute for 30 minutes at a resistance of 4. On day 14 after the operation I stopped taking strong painkillers switching to paracetamol every 6 hours taken with colchicine twice a day. That bring my recovery to 5th October 2023. I also iced my knee have a stack of 12 ice pads in my freezer. As and when I felt like it. When the temperature went to 30 degrees centigrade in august I had to purchase additional ice pads. I learnt a lot from my first left knee replacement.

I meet with my orthopedic doc 4/4/22 and honestly these videos help a lot. But once I was told I need tkr I started looking up and doing the pt requirements so here’s to a great recovery. The mind is an amazing tool

Thank you so much. I am day 4 post surgery, first day I can look at videos. I was feeling pretty bad and watched this video. Knowledge takes the pain away. I’m calmer, better, knowing it is normal and it will ease

I literally had a TKR outpatient surgery today 3-25-22. So far I’ve had a pretty positive experience. I had the surgery at 10am and it is now midnight. The pain has been controlled with a nerve block prior to surgery and by the pain meds prescribed. I’ve been up and around several times beginning in the recovery room. I was pretty anxious about getting the surgery but I’m glad that I went through with it. I know there may be tougher days ahead with the recovery process, but at this point I would recommend getting the surgery if it is something that you need to get back to a better activity level. Thanks for your very informative videos!

I had TKR almost 1 yr ago and I'm so glad I did it! I would say for myself after about 2 days post up everyday got better! And the cool thing was I could actually see the improvement! Do what your surgeon says! I started w physical therapy at home for a couple weeks and then transitioned to outpt rehab. Keep working/ bending your knee as recommended. I am still getting improved ROM! No more pain of arthritis! Good luck to you!!!

Tomorrow is my surgery day and I am thankful for you guys

Hello! I had my TKR this morning at 8:30am, and I am home now. Going through your videos because they are super helpful! Thank you for making these!

Another great video! 👍 You two are always great at giving us such helpful information and talking to us like real people. And your sense of humor adds that special touch. 😉 I'm not currently in the market for a knee replacement but if I ever am, I'll be sure to refer to your videos. Peace of mind is always a good thing when it comes to surgery and you certainly provide that. Thanks for all you do!

I loved that you said to start the exercises before surgery. It helped alot. I had both knees done in the last eight months. It was totally worth it.

I love all of your educational videos, but so glad to see you are doing specific orthopedic videos again. I had to have my knee surgery twice, 1 week apart because I bled into the joint. A very rare event (thank goodness)! Now that was pain, the second postoperative period was a cinch after getting it redone. The pain DOES go away, and you will be so much better off after the surgery. I am do glad I had mine done.

Ive NOT had a knee replacement but assisted at many! I find your videos inspiring!! Well done.

Thank you so much Doctors! I just had knee replacement surgery and it has been tough but it is only day three. What I wanted to say I haven’t been eating much at all and I was so happy to hear that was normal. I have watched you two before surgery for exercises and such! You two are the best!

Hello! Thank you for your videos! I truly credit your videos helping me have a good result! I went to the hospital at 6am, and I was walking into my home with a walker at 12:30! Truly incredible! I had my knee replaced in October, and I am doing well! The one thing I was not prepared for was the extreme bruising of my whole leg! I looked like someone took a ball bat to my leg, not just the knee area, but up my thigh and down to my ankle. And they lasted for at least 3 weeks. I was well prepared for my procedure and for me that helps. Your constant reminders of doing your therapy echoed in my head and pushed me along. Plus, I had an excellent physical therapist who knew just how much to push me to do more than I thought I could do. Thing that helped me the most was my cryocuff (ice machine) I used 22 pounds of ice each day for about 4 weeks. Thank you for ALL your videos Debbie Duckworth

I had my TKR done 3 weeks ago and day 3 was a tough day. BUT thankfully as I’d watched your videos beforehand I was more prepared for how I was going to feel post op. One thing to emphasise for me is the pain I had pre-surgery was worse and any fears that I was doing the wrong thing went out of the window. I know this was the best thing for me and now the way is up and I’m looking forward to being able to walk again properly, without limping or being in the pain of bone on bone. Thanks, guys and keep up the excellent work

Thank you. I'm scheduled for 12/28/22. I am an overachiever. You have made me feel all right to not be in competition with any on or myself. Just work hard and smart but it is ok to rest and not be pressured.

Between such an important video and equally important comments all around there is so much important information here. I watched the entire video and don't believe you mentioned how happy the patient would be that they had their knee done (sorry if I missed it). That comment was given by those above and below that actually had their knees replaced. Always good information here. Many thanks for all the sharing.

Just had my second knee surgery yesterday home today. Thank you for these videos they helped me with the first knee and they will with this one too. One thing I can add is that moving your leg gets so much easier the more ya do it 👍🏼👍🏼

I watched all your TKR videos prior to my TKR 5 weeks ago. I appreciate everything you have posted. Thanks to you and my doctor and PA, I can honestly say I walked into the hospital in more pain than I walked out with! I went in with some nerves, and thinking I would do my other knee in a year, now I am excited to do my other knee in 3 mos. Thank you for the videos.

Thank you for these videos--I am due to have TKR in the spring and these have been really helpful in easing my anxiety about what is going to happen and what I should expect. Many thanks!

Yes, the early regret and surgeon hating is for real! 10 days out and several pt sessions and I'm starting to see the light. I also did a bunch of pre-op quad and glute exercises which I think has helped a ton! Can't wait to get back out there and hike!

I have had both my knees replaced. The first one was in 2019. They did not give my any pain meds other than a small pump that was putting a painkiller directly into my knee. It ran out on day 4. I was in horrible pain. The second knee replacement was done in 2020. This time I was given pain medicine to help for a few days. It was tolerable. I’m glad I had them done now. The pain I had before the surgeries is gone…no more crying at night if I turn over the wrong way!

I had my 1st TKR 2/22/22 on my right knee...my next one is 6/28/22 on my left knee if course lol. I never felt a great deal of pain after surgery but that may be because I had so much pain prior to surgery! My biggest mistake was comparing other people's, what seemed like faster recovery to mine! I also recall I just couldn't eat! Literally no appetite. My appetite came back after about 3 weeks. My knee is still swollen but I walk everyday and I've joined a gym in order to concentrate on strengthening my knee. I also did everything my physical therapy told me to do...it was grueling BUT I knew it was for the best! I work from home, went back to work at week 7. I also used the CPM Machine for 3 weeks. I'm so thankful for these videos, I'm starting to watch them all over again to prep for June lol ...so glad these two have been sooo informative!!

Your video is fantastic! I'm going for my second TKR but I'm not so worried as I went through it before but you videos are uplifting and even though they seem scary, to me they are not! Thank you for them.

Thank you for all of your videos about TKR. My surgeon has not told me much about afterwards and he didn't tell me to do any prehab exercises either. My surgery is next Wednesday, and I really appreciate all of the information. I wanted to minimize narcotic use too but now I see I will need to take it as needed to get through the pain post op. I work in PACU but have never done ortho, so thank you for everything.

Oops I watched this three weeks before my surgery! Tough to hear but all good info to know! From what I’ve heard most people finally admit that it was the best thing to do and get A new lease on life. Thanks for being so honest!

I had bilateral TKR 10 months ago. I got lucky I guess my knees never got swollen. I still have some pain on both of my knees, but it's manageable. I go for 1/2 walks in the morning, 20 minutes bike & 20 minutes on the treadmill. My therapist advised to do through out the day, not one after the other because it would be too much for my knees. I'm pretty happy how it's going, I can do a lot more things now. Before the surgery I couldn't even take 5 steps my knees hurt so bad. I've been watching your videos I find them.very helpful.

I had TKR on both knees one year apart in '17 & '18, then total right hip replacement in '20. The hip was a breeze compared to the knees, BUT I put in all the hard physio therapy work required for the knees, and I had 100% success and attained great range of motion in both. My surgeon was surprised and very happy with the ROM I accomplished during the healing process. Not going to lie.....it was tough, but the best thing someone told me prior to my first TKR was that the purpose of working hard on bending with those painful exercises was to keep 'breaking up the scar tissue' that's forming as it's healing. I just kept visualizing that as I was doing all the PT, and it really helped me to take control. I feel that having a simple stationary bike was what really helped with my ROM. Once my PT said it was ok, I started with the seat much higher and just rocked my legs back and forth (make sure your feet are in the stirrups.....you do NOT want the operated leg to slip off the pedal!!! And obviously, no tension on the wheels.) As you get those muscles warmed up, the rocking motion will get bigger, and then finally, with a LOT of bravery, you make that very FIRST ROTATION!!! THAT is SO exciting!! As healing progressed, I lowered my seat incrementally and that made the rotations harder, and forced a greater bend, but I did it. (Some tears running from the eyes involved, but worth it!) I think, that if you're not working hard enough to bring on a few tears.....then you're not working hard enough! My best friend was too afraid of the pain, and she did not have good success with her ROM. First 2 weeks are nasty, but once the staples are out, the dressing off, and the swelling starts to reduce, you feel so much better. I am 100% happy with both my knees (& my hip), and I have absolutely no regrets at all......BUT you have to DO the work! ~~Mavis~~

Just had my right hip done march 14. My surgeon did it robotically Really have much pain. I’m having my knee done in 6 months. Thanks for the video.

Goodmorning to my sweet drs and thank you for doing this on TNR I had both knees done 4 months apart late last year and everything you said is all so true on day 1 and I was in pain for the first week then it started to feel much less painful. I slept in my recliner for 3 weeks because my bedroom is on the second floor. And you really do need to bend that knee and it does hurt but it's so important to be able to walk and get around. Thank God I did everything my dr told me as I can bend my knees without all that pain I was in before my surgeries and am so glad I had it done and I have to say for a few days right after the surgery I wasnt 😫 .I love your videos and cant wait for your next one and please stay safe and my love and hugs to you and to your families .🤗🤗💙💙 Maria from the USA

Helpful as always. I did go home the same day and I can relate to all of this. The horrible bruising , pain and regret were all there. SO much pain. 😩Very Sick from pain meds. Not hungry. 😭. I’m almost 6 weeks out now and doing much better. All of your videos are so great and helpful ‼️

8/23/16 Right TKR age 71 5/3/21 Left TKR age 76 Absolutely the the best decisions I ever made. Can only imagine where I’d be had I not had these operations. Worth all the pain, and 4 months of PT. Can now get around as normally. Find the right doctor. I did. Good luck. Don’t over think it.

Another great segment!! You answered the questions I had for my pre-op in 2 weeks. In this vid, you mention about interaction with a "partner" to help with various activities. My docs office refers to them as coaches. After this one, we watched the "6 Exercises after TKR". In it, the physio mentions while performing the exercises if your not in pain you're not pushing it, it should put a tear in your eye. Well my coach, (aka; my wife) looked over at me, smiled and said "oh...you'll be in pain!" But her question is, how far is too far to push? Or when can she say, "get up and get it yourself". So she wouldn't mind seeing a video dedicated to information just for partners/coaches.

Brilliant as always. I’m Just 6 months into my first knee replacement and second one now going ahead in 8 weeks time and it’s amazing how much you forget. But it’s true. You do forget pain.

I am going to have total knee replacement in two days. I have been getting all the information I can get on it. Thank you for this video and all your videos. You two are wonderful.

I have had both knees replaced. One 19 years ago, and one 14 years ago. Post op was in hospital 3 days back then, but had a bad reaction to the medication. This is great information. The emphasis on PT and exercise is SO important. I believe it makes the major difference. I have been able to do pretty much everything all these years. Including hiking and going to the gym. What a blessing. AND, they still work fine, and are pain free!

I had TKR surgery done on Wednesday and today is Friday. Some things that have struck me: as you can't get out of bed your toilet needs are .et with a catheter and a large nappy😢 As I am prone to constipation, I haven't pooed for 3 days. Also my operated leg remained anaesthetised for 24 hrs after the op which can make you believe that it's not as painful as you expected. My philosophy is that many people have come through this, therefore, so can I. And so can you!!

After 14 weeks post op (thr) I’m totally thankful for my amazing surgeon, every day is better than the one before but that first week is hard not just with the pain but the emotional aspect of relying on somebody else

Thank you so much for this video. I’m having mine done June 13, 2023 this yr. It’s May 15. I’m very nervous, but knowing what to expect put my mind at ease somewhat.

Hello guys, I’m ready for my left knee surgery all your videos are amazing and very informative keep up the amazing work

I had mine done, mowing the yard in 10 days. Hell yes it hurt and the PT blows but man up and do it. The worst part was the first dump you TRY to take, WOW that medicine will bind you up - don’t skip the stool softeners. 2 other tips - have a grab bar by the toilet and have a cold water circulator - for me, ice way way better than pills for pain.

Going under the knife on March 15 2023 and after years of pain and not getting to enjoy my hobbies the time is soon. Thanks for the video for they give me confidence in my recovery.

You know, you docs are spot on with your comments regarding pain. First day after surgery was the eye before the storm so to speak. I slept most of the time on opioid meds. The 2nd and third days were the worst. That’s when the pain prevented me from sleeping and relaxing even with a steady dose of the required meds. I gritted my teeth but reminded myself that each day after surgery is a day closer to wellness and freedom from pain. I made sure to have a steady supply of ice pads as well. Those really helped a lot. Bathroom breaks were no fun either. But i persisted to get over the first week, knowing that “the darkest hour is just before dawn” and dawn came the second week. My battle scar was a sight to behold and to brag about. Once the staples were removed (it was a breeze!), i knew i had it made!

I had both knees done 3 years apart. One partial and the other total. The pain I suffered before the surgery was ten times worst then the surgery. I was back at work 3 weeks after my partial. It took a little longer for the full but well worth it. I had a great doctor and confidence in your doctor is what helps you to heal.

I'm 48 and discussing a TKR for January/February next year. I've had 7 right knee surgeries and about a dozen plus cortisone injections. The last injection of Synvisc 2 weeks ago didn't work. While I'm not looking forward to it, I'm looking forward to being mobile, more active, AND out of hourly pain! I'm also afraid of getting addicted to pain pills. I was addicted to them for 5 years but I've been sober for 13. My last knee surgery in 2021 I took 2 percocet for pain and threw them away. My husband held onto the bottle for me.... I hated them! I was good taking Tylenol and Ibuprofen but I know with this surgery, I'm going to need them. I'm sooooo nervous and I'm not afraid of the pain.... the pain meds? 1000% Thank you for this video!

thank you for information

My surgery is on Monday. I'm excited and nervous. Thank you so much for these videos. It helps a lot with all of what I'm feeling.

Betty Kunkel here.....I started watching your videos prior to my knee replacement revision on 12/14/2022. I found them very helpful both pre- and post-op. So far my recovery is going well. I've had a good appetite from the moment I woke up in recovery. I've been doing my exercises faithfully, and have my first outpatient physical therapy on 12/20/2022. Your videos have been both informative and motivational. Thanks.....I'm really glad I found your channel.

You gave honest information in all your videos. I’m 12 days after surgery and need meds but physical therapy has helped immensely. Please check out the videos from these surgeons!

Hey docs! Thanks for sharing this video, I find it very helpful!😊

I be four days post-op with TKR and doing quite good. Don’t hardly need walked! But I WILL follow my doctor-general’s orders to the letter . Thanks, Sir Docs, for you most helpful posts. I was rather apprehensive before but seeing what you showed and talked through l, calmed my fears.

I had partial knee done in thanksgiving I’m four days post op it’s my third time have this knee operated on.. pain meds I didn’t stay in top of.. I had forgotten how sore the knee is..make sure you leave hospital knowing what pain med schedule you need to stay on top of pain.. you won’t be pain free but once edge is off it makes life a bit easier..ice pack every 2 hours is your best friend and mobilise!

Came across this today (Sunday) and am scheduled on Wednesday for knee replacement! Thanks for the warning!!!!

Your videos are great even for those of us who are anticipating TKR. I see my orthopedic surgeon in 3 weeks to determine if and when it will be. Injections worked on one knee but not the other, so when I saw him 3 months ago he indicated it might be time to have surgery. Thanks to your videos I have far less anxiety about it.

i had a total knee 10 days ago, the pain sucks but on day 8 it started to get better, worst part is PT, and yea there were times i hated my surgeon and i regretted the decision. but am taking it day by day and am feeling stronger. i get staples out in 2 days. having someone to clean my apartment helps, and to help me with shopping. it also helps to have a buddy to talk to who has had the knee surgery. my surgeon rocks! i had it robot-the only way & chose to be awake during the whole thing

Just had TKR on Monday 13 -2023 all went well walked the Halls did the steps things Looked Great , Got home and the Good stuff wore off I didn’t move no way close. To the way I moved in the Hospital , But Yes there’s pain and the most important moves hurt the worse like always but still a Great move and an ending in a few months I hope ICE is a big helper too for that and the swelling and pain. Thanks for Your Video’s Gentlemen big help

I’m waiting for my knee replacement and it can’t come soon enough. I swore I would never do a TKR but funny how pain changes your mindset! I have a date and pray for a cancellation to go sooner. I will absolutely be buying a cryotherapy (ice machine) before hand. I’ve been doing physio for a year and will continue until surgery and the best part is when she puts that ice machine on my knee after therapy. It does help with pain. I hope my physio helps my recovery.

I went home the same day and did wonderful! No walker or cane after I walked into the house. My surgeon said my next one might not be that easy! But it might!

I had my 1st knee replaced 12 years ago and the second 10 years ago. After my second knee I asked to go home the next day because I had prepared better and knew what to expect. I always tell people to do quad strengthening exercises preop, it makes recovery easier. My surgeon asked me a lot about what I did because they were wanting to reduce postop stays. I went back to work at 5 1/2 weeks after both. It is the best thing ever because I can move again and have lost 144 pounds because of my knee replacements!

Had two knees done. My wife had two before me so I knew somewhat what to expect. My expectations were low so I was thrilled by how RELATIVELY easy it seemed. Pain control for the first day was amazing. I was told to take the pain meds to the fullest extent so that I could get full mobility from the outset. That worked for me for both legs but apparently that part was exceptional. Might also have to do where you were coming from . For me it was getting my life back and I never had anything but gratitude for surgeon and support staff - who were magnificent!

Thank u, I needed to hear that.

Great video ! Great info ! I am scheduled for a TKR on April 5th and I can't wait. Over the past 10 years since my torn meniscus, I've had pain, crackling, crunching and grinding. Looking forward to my new knee, even though the first couple weeks will be a challenge. I'm ready ! 💪

Thank you guys from the UK. I’m trying to prep myself for knee replacement no date nailed on yet but it will now be in the next 12 months 👍👍

Thanks for encouraging me 😊👍 mine was done 2/20/23, so far, so good

Please stay the full day after. It is really painful and could use that day to have the nurses keep an eye on you.

Soooooooooooo true. Great, Honest video

On day 3 and doing well. Had the spinal and a block and don't regret it. Only problem...Took meds at 7am and then started the day towards discharge. Sailed through PT but although they gave me a bunch of meds to take home nobody had me take any. By 7pm I was hitting an 8 on the pain scale if I even tried to lift my leg. You warned about getting behind and I experienced it. Now at day 3 cutting back on the strong meds unless I need them with PT. Thanks for the education. You guys are great!

Uh oh...I watched your video before having surgery! :) I've been watching your videos in preparation for my own surgery. I'm 49 and have been on the list for over a year. I'm hoping to get a date soon!

I go in on February 16, 2024 for a left knee replacement in the Netherlands, surgeon says he wont know if its full or partial till the day of surgery. Been watching these videos for a few weeks now and they both help and terrify me, kind of a 'two-four ' one experience. Thanks for the information and your engaging presentation style. As a good Canadian, gotta end this comment correctly, eh! ;)

Having my TKR surgery in 3 days and so wish I had found your videos earlier.

Hi Docs. I was hit by a car in 2014 and had my TKR on December 19th 2018. I was in the hospital for 3 days. When I woke up from anesthesia I had a pain blocker in my hip (not sure what the terminology name is) and it did cut down the pain overall. To this day I still can not sit Indian style. I had therapy 3 times a week. They actually came to my apartment and did it. I can't remember it being so bad. I didn't take to much pain medication but if I needed it I had it. My partner Tony, was no help at all. We have since parted ways, thank goodness but I could do most everything after my surgery. This was helpful to hear you guys explain for others who have to have TKR. I want to thank you for all the information you both have and for sharing everything you both know

I need to have my left knee replaced. To be honest I am frightened by the surgery and have been putting it off. Love you guys and appreciate your honesty. You have convinced me to continue to put it off 😊. Thanks for your insight!! Take care guys!!

I love your vlogs. I suppose everyone feels pain in different degrees.I was in awful pain after both of my replacements and at times really regretted having it done. This went on for weeks and I never really thought it was under control. The fear in the medical world of opioid addiction probably had a lot to do with this. The truth is the only thing that works is time. I slept a lot and put my wife through a lot during my recovery. I am sixty and had both my knees replaced much earlier than I should normally have needed. I will never be 30 again and do not expect to be able to do the things I was able to then. I can say though I am very happy to be a lot and I do mean a lot better now they have been done. Be realistic about your expectations and enjoy life with your new knees.

My first day after knee surgery and it is incredibly hard and painful just getting out of a chair standing up using a walker. I didn't expect that much pain and difficulty

Had my left knee done and wish I had pushed harder. Yes remember each day, week, etc does get better!!!

Thanks for the advise! I suffer ftom blood clots and it is a little scary but my doctor assured me he has experience with issue. The clots reoccur in my left leg which is the one I'm having surgery on! "I will go with Ive got this"!

Learn to love your polar ice machine. When pain meds do not help, get up and stand on the leg. It is the opposite of what you want to do, but the pressure gives a different sensation and it may help. And standing requires you to get up which means movement for the knee - get it mobile.

Spot on guys, had my hip done, went very well, home the next day. Not sure of some things but all worked well Thks to you and your presentations. Cheers

i had one done 2014 the outher in 2015 both went well. i did stay in the hospital one an a half days,maby we are nt as tuff here in the us you all do live in the tundra. all went well and still good physical therapy was tuff. its a lot better now than the pain i had before. good show thanks for what you both do.

Well mine was crazy.. First I Had both done at the same time.. Glad that I did.. second few days before my husband was in a car crash and broke his neck but wanted me to go ahead with my surgery so I did..we were both in the Hospital together so we got to see each other.. when we got home he was my legs and I was his arms.. Good new we made it work crazy year 2020.thanks Guy's for the videos.Linda

1/4/16 had TKR @7 am. They had me on a walker down the hall @3:42 pm that same day. All is great 6 years later.

I had a bi-lateral 16 years ago and I still remember all of this. What they say is true. All I can say is just suck it up , it WILL GET BETTER

My knee replacement is one month away. I am so scared, as I am a total whimp when it comes to pain! I am in pain now, but the anticipation for after surgery pain is scary to me. Thank you for the video, Docs!