"I Average 8,000 Steps a Day Without Pain"

Carolyn's Story

What was life like before joint replacement?

Life before my surgery was painful. After walking more than a few blocks, I would have to rest. My knee would pop and swell after exercise. I was feeling pain every day and hated it.

What was the turning point for you (the moment you knew you needed to move ahead with surgery)?

My grandchildren being born was my turning point. Not being able to get up from the ground after playing with them was disappointing to me. I knew as they grew, I would have to be more mobile to keep up with them.

What is life like now? How has joint replacement changed your life?

Surgery was amazing. I was up walking the same day, and home from the hospital the next. I dedicated the two weeks I was off work to Physical Therapy and rest/recovery. I continued PT for another month before my doctor said that I was perfect. I went back to the gym at 3 weeks and regularly swim, walk, and bike. I average 8,000 steps a day without pain.

What information do you have that would help others considering joint replacement?

The best thing for my recovery was participating in PT.  It was so important to keep my knee exercised and active.  I also learned that my knee let me know when I over did it and would swell up. Elevation and ice are still my friends. Give yourself time. Slowly start doing the things you loved doing. It was worth it in the end for me.