Total Knee Replacement. At 38

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I had an MRI on my knee and today was my follow-up. I was diagnosed at 35 with osteoarthritis, which they said was really young for someone who didnt play sports or injure it in some way. At 36 i had surgery on it to remove a cyst, a bone spur, and all the junk that was causing the crunchiness. Well now its even worse. The doctor said i need a total knee replacement, at 38. Its so upsetting. I thought we could just do another clean out. But it says my athritis is too advanced and doing the replacement would be the best option. So i was referred to another doctor in the practice (he wasnt there today. They have 3 offices) and i see him on August 7th. With insurance approvals and scheduling, im hoping I’ll have a new knee by Christmas.

Im very stressed and very anxious about this. This is going to be such an extensive surgery and my recovery period is going to be so much longer than my last surgery. And im really worried about the pain meds they’ll give for the first couple of days. I know I’ll need them, but im a recovering addict. I have a little over 2 years clean from morphine. So yeah, pain pills make me nervous. My husband will be with me to monitor my usage, so that makes me feel a little better. Anyway, thats it. I just needed to vent and maybe get some kind words. Thanks.

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Hope everything goes well.

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You’ll feel much better once it’s done.

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Honestly,

It’s probably the best time to do it.

You don’t want to wait until it’s bad, you’re much older and you’re not able to heal as well.

You’ll have a better recovery at this age.

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Hope everything heals quickly!

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Thats a good point. It’ll be much easier to heal now than when im older. They usually last 15 to 20 years, so I’ll need to do it again at 60, but i kinda feel like 20 years of no pain is worth having it done again later on in life

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I feel you. I was bawling over a torn meniscus. It was terrible. Luckily medicare paid for the surgery.

Arthritis is awful. My mom, grandma, and cousin I don’t really know deal with it on a daily basis.

Best wishes that August comes quickly for you.

-S

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Ouch! Anything being torn sounds terrible! Thanks for the kind words.

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Hopefully your surgery goes well! Perhaps stop putting pressure on the knees. Instead of walking/running go biking instead.

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Can you go to NA meetings a little before, sure, and for a bit after your surgery for extra support?

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You can totally do this!!! I promise, you aren’t alone.

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Swimming is a great exercise, fyi. Building up whatever muscle you can beforehand will make surgery easier.

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I hope you have a speedy recovery :pray:

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My husband recommended this too. I think its a really good idea. If i can get some support before i think I’ll have an easier time. Thank you!

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Good luck! I’m glad you’re open to going to meetings :slight_smile: You got this!

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Good luck with the surgery, I wish you a smooth recovery @Pickpink :slight_smile:

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Thanks everyone. That means a lot to me! I really appreciate all the support. 🩷🩷🩷

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Best of luck with everything @Pickpink

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