Messageboard
The Village Hall permalink
Otherknees
This discussion has been closed.
-
Message 1.Â
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Saturday, 26th March 2011
Big news on the Knees front, chez Bridge. I am going to be having knee replacement surgery --both sides-- on the 21st of April.
*GULP* !
I have been 'coming out' about it gradually, telling just one person or small group of people at a time, mainly because I've felt that every time I talk about it, it seems more real. However, now it is very real indeed and very close indeed and everyone in RL knows now who needs to know, so ML is the last step! Because of course everyone and her auntie would be able to read it here, if they wanted to.
I seem to go in cycles in how I feel about it, I've done quite a lot of research about it and it's really been the main thing on my mind for quite some time now. Sometimes I am more or less OK, just matter-of-factly facing the prospect of major surgery, accepting that by all accounts the recovery is long (I'll be off work for at least 2 and possibly 3 months), frustrating and painful, but gradually, gradually, the prospects seem very good that after 3 or 6 or 9 or 12 months things will be much, much better.
Other times the screaming heebie jeebies come out to play, both about the surgery itself and the pain thereafter. It feels extremely daunting to me-- I know lots of people here have had major medical/surgical procedures done but I never have, and it scares the wotsit out of me.
And then sometimes, especially recently, I have been extremely weepy, bursting into tears at the drop of the hat. The prospect of such loss of control and dependence is at the root of a lot of that-- even though I know that that will only be in the relatively short term.
Anyway, I'm just starting this thread now in case I need to cry on some cyber-shoulders in the next while... recently in one of my bursting-into-tears phases I wished I'd already told ML so that I could come in here for a 'cuppa and a cuddle' without explaining anything right then.
So, if there are any cyber-shoulders, cyber -hands to hold, cyber-cuppsatea on offer, please hold them at the ready! Thanks, peeps.
Amy x -
Message 2
Posted by studioj (U1600165) on Saturday, 26th March 2011
Coo.. blimey.
I can imagine the swings/cycles you are going through.
It sounds extremely daunting but there must also be at least a tinge of excitement... at the prospect of eventually being relieved of the burdon caused by them troublesome knees... and hopefully leading to a much less restricted lifestyle and much more freedom. Keep hold of that last thought.
Hoping that all goes as well as possible. Big hug.
jont {;¬· >···{ -
Message 3
Posted by BaraGwenith (U14257539) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Oh Amy, you will be so, so glad you've had them done when you are recovered.
Yes there is a lot of pain, but it will get better. You must be in so much pain now - that will all be gone.
I only had one done. In Friday morning, spinal block, done Friday morning. Ö÷²¥´óÐã Monday afternoon. I don't know if this is general but I was told that they didn't want me in pain so drugs were forthcoming on request. None of this waiting for the drugs trolley to come round.
Go for it; you won't regret it. -
Message 4
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hiya jont, good to see you, thanks for being the first to reply.
Yes, holding on to thoughts of no more (or much less) pain and much greater freedom and mobility is really important, I think. Thing is, it's really hard to actually believe! I can just about imagine it, but then I can imagine fairies at the bottom of the garden too...Still, watch this space I suppose!
Thanks for the good wishes, and big hugs backatcha.
Amy x -
Message 5
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hello BaraGwenith (have we met?)
thanks for that and I do hope I'll be glad! From what I read, some people in the short term start wondering if they've done the right thing because the recovery can be so difficult but that's the short term.
I'll be in hospital longer than you, because I'm having both knees done-- 6 or 7 days apparently. Then I am going to be staying with friends for a bit, because I live on my own, and up far too many stairs... I'm not sure what kind of anaesthetic I will have yet but one of the things that really freaks me out is the idea of waking up during the op-- which does happen very occasionally apparently-- so I am going to plead to have double/tripe doses of the stuff that knocks you out!
Good to hear about your experience with the pain killers, too.
Amy x -
Message 6
Posted by BaraGwenith (U14257539) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Sorry Amy, I just jumped into your thread, uninvited. I just feel so positive about having my knee done. It is exactly 3 years ago. Have to say it is still improving.
Only two things I can't do. Carry heavy weights and kneel on that knee. I have to improvise a bit when painting skirting boards but otherwise everything is fine. -
Message 7
Posted by carrick-bend (U2288869) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
My mum had replacement knees about 7 years ago - very soon afterwards (like 24 hours) she said the pain was less than it had been for years, and it gave her a new lease of life.
Joint replacement has improved so much recently; now the advice seems to be "don't wait - just get it done".
I'm so pleased for you,
C-B x -
Message 8
Posted by MV Whitby May Rose (U6862284) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Good luck Amy. I hope that it all goes to plan and you have more freedom than you have had of late.
-
Message 9
Posted by Fire-Pig - proud to wave the protest banner (U12231213) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Go for it Amy - but do remember to do the follow through exercises properly. I have a couple of colleagues who have both had both knees done at the same time, who are like new women. One of them tells the tale of another lady, who I see about town, who is still hobbling two years on. My colleague tells me it is because she didn't listen to the doctor's advice - so be warned!
Just think how much you will be able to listen to Kate Rusby while convalescing!
F-P -
Message 10
Posted by San Fairy Anne (U14257911) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Oh! Amy! Really good vibes flowing down the A1 in your direction. I'm so glad for you that 'they' are able to do this for The Knees. It's a big decision you have made, well done indeed.
The spinal block thing mentioned up thread is great ( I've had 2 things with that recently).
One recovers *much* more quickly than with a GA and you cannot 'wake up' during, as you are awake anyway, although sedated so it's easy with the help of something interesting on an ipod ( otherwise you can hear the conversation!) to ignore what is going on below the waist. All the best and of course we will here to be shoulders to lean on. SFAnneâ„¢ -
Message 11
Posted by Small boy in third row (U2247664) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy, I'm not surprised you're getting the heebie jeebies at the thought of major surgery but it will be so worth it in the end. I remember the difference having a hip transplant made to my grandfather, and that was a long time ago so the techniques will be even better now and of course you're a lot younger than my grandad. He always said afterwards he wished he hadn't waited so long.
This waiting for it to happen must be hard, wishing you all the best. -
Message 12
Posted by My Mum is turning in her grave (U13137565) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy - big hug for now and plenty more when you need them.
I'm sure you won't regret having them done. You are so young so your recovery time should be quicker than for older people. I'm sure you will follow all the advice given post-op. I'm glad you've got alterbnative accomodation sorted already.
Good Luck
GG xxxxx -
Message 13
Posted by Dunlurkin NL (U2675855) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Ooh Amy! What a lot for you to get your head round.
Someone asked me the other day whether I was capable of being a ' good listener' as I always seem to want to offer practical help when anyone has a problem. I have to admit that, on reading the OP, my first response was, what a pity I don't live near enough to offer Amy and her new knees any practical assistance. However, I think I can be a good listener too, so here is a cyber shoulder ready for when you need it.
I agree that the recovery seems (from observing a friend) to be partly dependent on your own attitude, but I can't imagine that will be a problem in your case.
Very best wishes,
Dunlurkin -
Message 14
Posted by Carol Tregorran (U8943346) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Best wishes speeding your way from Dublin, Amy.
It does sound daunting & I empathize completely about temporary
loss of independence but the outcome will make the frustrations of the next few months worth while.
I can offer a cyber shoulder to lean on & copious cyber cups of tea & coffee (& something stronger, if you wish.)
I hope to see you making another trip to Dublin in the not too distant future.
Cheers.
Carol -
Message 15
Posted by Redbookish (U1335018) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Great news, Amy. Everyone I know who've had knee replacements say the pain of recovery is well worth it: indeed, a family member had both knees done & a year later did a long distance walk (ie two weeks of it).
-
Message 16
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hi all,
Thanks for the replies and good wishes and offers of cyber-shoulders etc.
BaraGwenith, please don't apologise, I am glad you posted and even more glad that your knee is doing so well. I'd heard that new knees can go on improving for up to a year but didn't know that can happen even after 3 years. That's brilliant.
Carrick, gosh that's soon, for your mum's pain to have lessened so much-- that's one of my questions really, how soon I will feel better than I do now. I suppose it must vary from person to person, but you're right that the techniques keep getting better. Apparently they have to tell you tht the new joint will last 15-20 years but statistically they last much longer and there are people around now who had theirs done in the 60s and are still going strong. So it's possible I won't have to go through this again, and my new knees will out-live me, which would be fab.
I understand that in recovery you need to find a balance between doing the exercises and resting and that too much of the former can be as bad as too little... so it's a question of finding that balance and what works best for you at any given time. Which sounds like how it is for me now anyway... though of course it will be a new balance to find and negotiate.
From what I hear, people heal at different rates depending on all sorts of things but yes, I'm sure the exercises and how you approach things are important in that overall picture.
F-P yes I plan to take Kate Rusby with me into hospital and to my friends place, she'll be great accompanying me in my recovery, she has such a gorgeous, soothing voice.
SFA, thanks for the vibes, I really don't want to be aware of anything at all during the op. but I think the spinal block can be combined with something that knocks you out... or there's the GA option. I'll talk about it all with the anaesthetist when I have my pre-op. assessment on the 5th of April....this is a really long appointment, 2-3 hours, with nurse, anaesthetist, physiotherapist and occupational therapist. Sounds exhausting... On the other hand, as a friend pointed out, it's quite reassuring that it's so long, obviously they are very thorough in making sure you're OK to go ahead.
Rachel and Grace, yes I think my age and general state of health will probably work in my favour, we shall see.
Dunlurkin, aww that's sweet. I think both offers of practical help and being a 'good listener' have their place and aren't to be sneezed at! I think I'm ok on the practical front though, people are being amazing and I've got offers of help coming out of my ears by now. Several times I've sort of tentatively knocked on doors (metaphorically speaking) asking for a bit of support and people have flung their doors open wide and offered far more than I was asking for. Sniff. People have offered without being asked, too.
Whitby, thanks, I think I forgot you above, how could I. Carol too, and I'd love to come to Dublin again though of course it would be sad as well, because of Greenjewel. But it would be lovely to meet you and other Irish-based MLers. And thanks for the 'something stronger', that too can help keep the heebie-jeebies at bay I think!
Hope I haven't forgotten anyone, thanks all for 'being there'.
Amy x -
Message 17
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Thanks Red, and stories like that are great to hear. I always remember Loot posting something ages ago, about being on holiday in Austria with FML and climbing up a mountain and meeting someone coming down who'd had knee replacements done. Actually I think that story was one thing that helped me decide to go ahead... there are so many things that I used to do that i no longer can, and the thought of being able to re-claim some or many of those is almost overwhelming.
Amy x -
Message 18
Posted by DragonFluff (U6879248) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Oh, Amy, that's good news. I'm sorry you're a bit anxious about the op and the pain, do speak to your medical people about your fears, they will be able to advise you and if they know you're anxious about certain aspects, will be able to reassure you about those before and after the op.
I know you're a good girl and will do what those fizzyoferapists tell you to do, so I've high hopes of success here.
My only regret is that I don't live nearer and can't come and peel grapes for you and feed you with delicious asparagus risottos. (Memories of lunch in Beaumaris there...)
Take care, m'dear
Fluff x -
Message 19
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Thanks Fluff and yes, I will talk to the medical bods about it at the pre-op, for sure.
Love the idea of you feeding me peeled grapes and asparagus risotto, yum. (Though not together, I assume). Never mind, beam them to me over cyber-space and that will be fine. Together with the prospect of a future repeat performance in Beaumaris, who knows!
Amy x -
Message 20
Posted by dean volecape (U1477030) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy, I'm really glad for you that you're getting it done.
Ma is currently recovering from having one done [three weeks ago tomorrow]. She was in hospital for 10 days - they took her in on Friday to do various tests, operated on Monday, and let her out on Sunday - would have been a day sooner but she needed a couple of units of blood on the Thursday.
Do the preparatory exercises, and make any contingency plans you can for the recovery period. Things she's finding useful range from Pa's 'electric chair' - one of those armchairs with a zapper that helps you stand up - do you know anyone who has one that you could borrow? to a small cotton shopping bag that she can carry round her neck and use for moving books, reading specs etc when she walks - she's still on two sticks. She is still in pain but it is reducing - the bruising was extensive and deep. She's becoming more mobile by the day, and has her first physiotherapy session on Tuesday. Considering she's over 80, I think you have everything on your side when it comes to making a good recovery.
Stock up on clothes that it's easy to get in and out of, groceries and meds, books and DVDs, and any mobility aids that you can think of. I have wondered whether a she-pee would have been a good investment for midle-of-the-night piddles in the days before the staples come out of the leg wounds. One of those unspillable invalid drinking cups is handy at night if you need water but don't want to sit up.
All best wishes - it should transform your life. -
Message 21
Posted by San Fairy Anne (U14257911) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
I'll talk about it all with the anaesthetist when I have my pre-op. assessment on the 5th of April....this is a really long appointment, 2-3 hours, with nurse, anaesthetist, physiotherapist and occupational therapist. Sounds exhausting... On the other hand, as a friend pointed out, it's quite reassuring that it's so long, obviously they are very thorough in making sure you're OK to go ahead.Â
Tip. If you are at all the anxious type /or know you suffer from white coat syndrome get hold of a 'wrist' blood pressure measurer. They are not very expensive from Lloyds chemists. Take your BP over the period until you go on April 5th and get your normal, unworried readings ( try to surprise yourself) and keep a record. So when they keep you waiting at your pre op assessment and you are worrying about whether you are getting clamped or whatever..... and your BP is up then you show them your own record and they won't postpone your op. " Until your BP is down". as they did with me the first time. Some of the time they allow is for filling in a humungeous form. Take a spare pen! Best of Luck! SFAnneâ„¢ -
Message 22
Posted by politebirder (U4482231) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy, when I had my bunions done I was on a ward with hips & knees. The woman opposite me had both knees done under local (she was a nurse but personally, I would take as many drugs as possible; then again, I am of that generation!).
She was up & at 'em the day after & that was over 10 years ago & things have really progressed since then.
All the very best for the op, & keep in touch.
PB xx -
Message 23
Posted by Bearhug (U2258283) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Oh Amy, how exciting - and yes, scary and difficult to start with, but worth it in the long run, and at least your recovery will be over the best months of the year, so you can lounge around in the garden, watching the flowers and butterflies and birds, while sending the slaves to peel grapes for you and stuff. Ahem, where was I? Oh yes.
We are here. Will you have wifi and laptop in hospital? -
Message 24
Posted by Lili Bolero and the band played on (U10534540) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hi Amy. So glad to hear that you will soon be the proud possessor of two new knees! Look forward to seeing them in action at the Kent garden meet (only very gentle action, natch).
As for the pain, to be quite honest, dere, it will not be any worse that what you have already suffered, and at least you know it will end eventually. Having said that, take all the pain relief going. I can understand your reservations about being awake while it's all going on. I'd be asking for the full knock-out, meself.
All the very, very best, and speak soon.
x Lili -
Message 25
Posted by Lili Bolero and the band played on (U10534540) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Oops - forgot to say - yes, Dean is right. Get yourself some of those hideous 'jogging pants' thingies. Not at all glam, but my OH swore by them when he was having his back trouble, and when he broke his shoulder...
-
Message 26
Posted by Leaping Badger (U3587940) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hi Ames, thanks for telling us. Gosh, what exciting/groundbreaking news this is. You'll be our new-kneed Amy.
Sending you a consignment of badger-hugs to get you through the yips, if they come. Hope the docs are reassuring, and all goes smoothly. (Just imagine you're Helen Archer, and you'll sail through any trials that there might have been for a normal person.)
Keep us posted.
Best wishes
'Ö' x -
Message 27
Posted by Urban Yokel (U1485670) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
My mum has had both knees done (not at the same time) at aged 79 and 81. According to her the actual op is a doddle but you have to be meticulous about doing the physio afterwards and that is painful. In many ways the second was worse than the first because she knew what to expect! However it was well worth it as she was in continuous pain and could not walk more than about 100 yds. As part of the physio she had to walk two miles a day which she did by the book and she has never regretted it.
-
Message 28
Posted by Vicky S (U2258400) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hi cyber sister Amy. I'm so pleased you have the chance to get your knees done, will be thinking of you on the 21st April.Please don't worry too much, I'm sure everything will be fine and you will have many years of good walking, dancing and falling down drunk with your new knees. Talk to them about post op pain relief if you are anxious, there are lots of alternatives (I had a self administered morphine pump once and hardly had to use it - just the thought that it was there was reassuring and Ithink that lessened any pain) . Don't forget that the family cashmere blanket is always available for comfortable snuggling. I can also throw in a daft cat who would love to have a recuperating body to lounge on.
The only other thing we have to sort out is date of the Amy's Knee Op ML Party. Do you want it before or after? -
Message 29
Posted by Bearhug (U2258283) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Just imagine you're Helen Archer, and you'll sail through any trials that there might have been for a normal person.Â
Isn't she suffering enough without having to imagine that? -
Message 30
Posted by plum the depths (U5587356) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Hello Amy, just popped in to say my neighbour had two replacement knees a couple of years back and he grew 2". How cool is that.
He now does long bike rides and all sorts and he's in his mid sixties. Just think of all the things you, a young bud, could get up to after the op.
mmm spot of disco, the tango, gymnastics? So many possibilities. -
Message 31
Posted by Katy Tulip (U2239809) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy dear, all my petals & leaves crossed for you!
Nothing much to add to all the excellent advice you've already received, except to say that, much as I love my adopted Belgyland, there have been times over the past years when I have so wished I live in the UK, so a visit would not be so difficult to manage - this is another occasion.
Lots and lots of cyber hugs instead, plus a prop-up-shoulder ever on hand.
there are so many things that I used to do that i no longer can, and the thought of being able to re-claim some or many of those is almost overwhelming.Â
Hold on to that. Perhaps make a list? Then when you get the wibbles, pick one of the things you've written down, close your eyes, fill your mind with the image of you doing whatever it is in all the smallest details, while trying to relax, breathing deeply...
Mwahs,
Katy -
Message 32
Posted by Fee (U3534148) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy, that sounds like good news in the long run although the short term sounds daunting - I hope it all goes as smoothly as possible with as much pain relief as you need - and that the new Knees will know their place.
-
Message 33
Posted by Barefoot - a Bit of a Handful (U14258080) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
Amy - I am delighted to hear this news, although I'm sure it seems scary at the moment. No experience of people with knees (if you see what I mean) but my mother had a hip replacement aged 76 - the day after the op we went to see her and she looked 10 years younger as all the pain had gone. I know knees are more complex but I'm sure you will be delighted in a few months time.
So next time you go up Snowdon, you'll be walking!
bc -
Message 34
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
That is an *amazing* thought, bc, thank you.
And thanks and mwahs to everyone else as well, I can't keep up with all your messages! Katy, very good point about imagining various things I want to be able to do again, in as much detail as possible, as an anti-wibbles measure, I will try that.
Badger, thanks for the good wishes and badger hugs. And snork! I hope if I start resembling Helen Archer too closely somebody will break it to me gently (though of course I would never claim to be 'doggedly independent' while sponging off of my friends, erm... oooohh noooooooo....)
Dean, thanks for those useful suggestions, in some ways I am already prepared as I am on two sticks now much of the time, so know about carrying things with no hands available. But the she-pee (or is it she-wee?) for example might be a good idea. And of course stocking up on food for the freezer and cupboard before the op.. although I wont be coming home again for probably three or four weeks after they let me out of hospital (as I am imposing on not one but two different friends).
Glad your mum is doing ok, and things are getting less painful. I have seen photos of some of the bruising that can follow this surgery and it looks pretty dramatic and colourful...if I get that maybe I will enter it for the Turner prize...
SFA, good idea about the BP thingy though in the past I have tended to have BP on the lower end of normal. I wonder if I should still do what you suggest anyway... as you say it would be a pain to have the op. delayed for a silly reason like that.
Lili, yes the Kent gardens meet is something I am sort of aiming for. I should be ok to go, I hope, as it's three months after the op. and I should be driving six weeks or so afterwards, so by sometime in June. So yes, hopefully you will see the new knees in (gentle) action by then!
That's something I;m not sure of, what you say about the pain not being worse than what I've already experienced... after all when you think what they do to your bones it's pretty horrific stuff. However, if the pain meds are adequate and right for me, maybe you're right... hope so!
Bearhug, true enough about lounging around outside. There's no wifi in hospital but a friend is lending me a netbook with dongle so I will be sure and post here if I am not too out of it.
Vicky, cyber sis, thanks for the reassurances and I like your idea of a Knee Op ML party (or a Knees-Op?). I'm not sure whether it should be pre- or post-op, what do my social advisors counsel? Perhaps it could span the op itself, a bit like a New Year party that starts well before midnight and goes on to the wee hours, but over the course of a couple of days... then even while I am being chopped up in theatre people can raise their glasses and tell me I am their besht finred so I can read it later. Or maybe it should be a smaller affair, drinks and nibbles for a few friends, a couple of days before. Or afterwards so that I can get some of those cyber-peeled grapes brought to me on silver platters.
Carried away, moi?
Plum yes I've heard about people gaining an inch or two in height, quite amazing!
I know I've forgotten some people but thanks again to all.
Amy x -
Message 35
Posted by Retired-Rural-Person (U8479978) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
That is fantastic, Amy, life has sounded tougher and tougher for you, and you are too young for all these limitations.
Hope to see you at the Kent garden meet
In the meantime, have a Merry Anaesthetic and Happy New Knees -
Message 36
Posted by carrick-bend (U2288869) on Sunday, 27th March 2011
I like that, RRP.
"...Good tidings we bring,
To you and your kin.
We wish you a Merry Anaesthetic and a Happy New Knees!" -
Message 37
Posted by Jane (U1484860) on Monday, 28th March 2011
Hi Amy
How exciting! new Knees (trying saying that several times quickly!)
I can understand the aprehension and concern but just think of doing the can-can at the next ML party!
Feel free to call if you need a RL person to worry at.
Jane
(PS I did once wake up mid-op and was OK - didn't feel eany pain or anything. Its still a v clear memory nealy 40 years later!) -
Message 38
Posted by Schez (U2212013) on Monday, 28th March 2011
Amy I know how scared one can feel before an operation, I've had quite a few and I don't feel any less edgy each time there's another one!
But thank goodness I've come through mine unscathed and I know people who have had knees done and also come through brilliantly. One of the regular posters on the Earlybirds thread's elderly mother had this done not long ago and she made a fantastic recover - you must be half her age so I'm sure you will have a new lease of life once the initial soreness etc. has passed.
Best of luck to you, and if you're not running races as soon as you'd like, remember everyone's rate of recovery is different but it will be wonderful once you can walk around normally again after all the misery you have had for so long. -
Message 39
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Monday, 28th March 2011
Snork, Retired and Carrick, the 'Merry Anaesthetic' is thing is good too because apparently if they give you 'happy juice' beforehand you do go a bit merry. Course, I will be in over Easter rather than Christmas but that's a minor detail.
Jane, long time no see, and thanks for that. Even without having pain the thought of waking up during the op. gives me the absolute creeps so I mean to impress the fact on the anaesthetist and hope s/he gives me enough of the conking-you-out stuff to, well, conk me out for the duration.
Schez, thanks to you too, yes I think that's really important to remember that people recover at different rates and not to despair if recovery is slow. But yes, the end result should really be wonderful if/when I get there. Fingers crossed.
I wonder if the Lucky Knickers are any good around Knees?
Amy x -
Message 40
Posted by BaraGwenith (U14257539) on Monday, 28th March 2011
I think when you have your pre-op assessment they may suggest the spinal block to you. I had one, but don't know if it is an option if you are having both done. I never had or wanted an epidural for the birth of any of my children but I found it worked really well.
The only surreal moment was when thesurgeon lifted my leg above the curtain, so to speak, and of course I couldn't feel a thing. They must put some happy juice in the anaesthetic because I could hold a conversation but I wasn't totally aware. Like having one drink too many, maybe.
I have had GAs in the past but I find they leave me feeling odd for some time. With the spinal I was 'up and at them' much quicker.
This is of course a personal choice, but I'm just warning you they may suggest it as it is so much safer than a GA. -
Message 41
Posted by goodlookingone (U6012246) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
Amy: I've only just seen this.
When one does NOT have knee problems, it's very easy to tell those that do, that one should jump straight in and get it done. I can understand hesitancy at this stage, but I do think you should be considering how good it will make things in the long term, OR of how it would be if you did nothing.. I think the latter might be the deciding factor.
I don't know anyone who has had knee joints replaced (although I once met a knee recipient fleetingly, a day post-op), but I certainly know of people who were revitalised when they have had hip joints replaced.
You seem to have made up your mind and merely (Merely???) need reassurrance. Having only just spotted this, I have not yet read it through (trouble keeping eyes open), but will do so tomorrow - i.e., later today. Best Wishes. -
Message 42
Posted by Kate McLaren etc (U2202067) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
This is brilliant news - I do understand the fears, though as one who has had several totally successful orthopaedic "procedures" I am glad that they have been outweighed - and I look forward to *walking* up Snowdon with you next time.
Any time you need a grape peeled...just shout. -
Message 43
Posted by Bleak_Midwinter_Squirrel_Nutcase (U2248205) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
Amy, rooting for you. Love, $quigsxxxxx
-
Message 44
Posted by carrick-bend (U2288869) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
I wonder if the Lucky Knickers are any good around Knees?
smiley - smiley Â
Ask Eliza - she'll know. -
Message 45
Posted by Dunlurkin NL (U2675855) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
Amy, I just remembered that Mynyddyarcher had a knee done a couple fon years ago and was very pleased with the result.
She posted this just before she had the op:
Have fun.
Dunlurkin -
Message 46
Posted by goodlookingone (U6012246) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
OK, Amy. I've read through now.
I don't get to many ML meets, but hope you will walk with me from the Wibbly Bridge to the Tate next Feb. -
Message 47
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
Sounds good to me GLO, as I --hopefully-- will be much less of a wibbly Bridge by then.
Mwahs and waves to Drystane and $quigs. Dunlurkin, must have a look at that link once I'm home (no sound on this computer) though I definitely don't have a 'strong stomach' so will skip the bit that requires one!
BaraGweneth, yes I think they might suggest the spinal block but I really want to impress on them that I want to be totally unaware of everything from start to finish... I'd rather that and feel a bit out of it for a while afterwards. But as I say I THINK that it's also possible to have the spinal block plus something else to conk you out on top of that, but I'm not certain.
Amy x -
Message 48
Posted by BaraGwenith (U14257539) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
Hi, I only mentioned the spinal block so you are prepared with your wishes NOT to have one. Does that make sense.
Having read your posts I didn't want it to be sprung on you unawares. -
Message 49
Posted by Amy Bridge (U2239711) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
Yes, it makes perfect sense, thank you for that.
Amy x -
Message 50
Posted by Redbookish (U1335018) on Tuesday, 29th March 2011
BaraGweneth, yes I think they might suggest the spinal block but I really want to impress on them that I want to be totally unaware of everything from start to finish... I'd rather that and feel a bit out of it for a while afterwards. But as I say I THINK that it's also possible to have the spinal block plus something else to conk you out on top of that, but I'm not certain.Â
Amy, when I had my second wrist op I reall wanted the epidural (the block) only, because a) I wouldn't have minded watching them rummaging around in my wrist -- they really did rummage; and b) I've found that coming round from a GA is horrible & takes me about 6 weeks to recover (and 6 months before I feel like touching alcohol again!).
But the anaesthetist said they real;ly were going to be rummaging around and he seemed to really be preferring to use a GA, and put a canula in my other hand just in case.
Well, after 20 minutes the epidural hadn't taken. I could still feel my fingertips. And there were about 12 people all hanging round waiting for my arm to go completely numb. And the anaesthetist could see I was feeling a bit anxious about not "succeeding" (Type A personality even in the OR, I am!)
So the anaesthetist (he was lovely!) put in the GA in the other arm, and that's the last I remember! So it is possible to have both the block and the GA. What you have to tremember is that the numbness of the epidural block lasts up to 24 hours, long after the GA wears off, and so you have to be caregul not to bumpo anything. But I had only day surgery & had to be up and about within hours of surgery, whereas you will be a lady of complete leisure and lying around for a lot longer, so I think it'll be alright.
So pleased that you're going to get this done. I have a popped ligament in my heel and am Hopalong Cassidy at the moment & slowed to half my speed walking (can't really put my heel down properly) and it is SO annoying (not mention a wee bit hurty), so I can only imagine how annoying (as well as *everything* else like pain) it must be.
About this Board
Welcome to the Archers Messageboard.
or  to take part in a discussion.
The message board is currently closed for posting.
This messageboard is now closed.
This messageboard is .
Find out more about this board's
Search this Board
Ö÷²¥´óÐã iD
Ö÷²¥´óÐã navigation
Ö÷²¥´óÐã links
Ö÷²¥´óÐã © 2014 The Ö÷²¥´óÐã is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more.
This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.