I am needing to decide whether or not to have a double TKR. I am hurting and struggling to walk. I've read the posts in the Osteoarthritis Community, but they seem a bit old. I am looking for new posts and opinions. also, how are the folks who had this done two years ago doing now? I am a 55 year old female, otherwise healthy and active teacher. Thanks, DianeView Thread
Hello Wendi, I am 6 months post op and doing great! I am so happy that I had both knees done at the same time, with an extremely competent doctor and hospital. I would do it again in a heartbeat! It was not a fun time in the beginning, but I was walking the day after surgery and going to physical therapy for 12 weeks. I was fortunate to have my son who just graduated and was home full time to be my caregiver/driver/cook. I returned to work as a teacher who never sits down (I average 4 miles of walking on the job each day) but it is all pain free and med free! I only wish I had the energy and time and the money to keep up with physical therapy to increase my strength and balance. I try to do what I can at home but I still take stairs slowly. I have never regretted the procedure. As far as cost, looking at my hospital bill, it seems it was more economical to do both at the same time. I know it was better at work to get a sub for 12 weeks straight, than it would have been for 6 weeks in August/September and then again November/December. I would not have been healthy enough to go back after 6 weeks and still being in pain with the other knee. The most important thing is the doctor...you need one that has done many double knee replacements. Mine was Dr. Frank Tull with DePaul Hospital in St. Louis County, Missouri. I love him and his team! Hope this helps, DianeView Thread