I had total knee replacements in both legs and then had to have them “revised” and “debrided” less than a year later. I live in Manhattan and used the “best of the best” specialist at the best hospital, followed by months of intense physical therapy. It is now almost a year since the last corrective surgery. Although I realize that the clunks and clatters are normal, I am still experiencing significant pain upon standing. I must use a cane to walk as my balance is not good and my knees give out (fold up) sometimes.

I have severe osteoarthritis and I was knock-kneed, making the surgery necessary if I was to have any quality of life. I am in my late 50’s and also have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia which affects my shoulders, collar bones, hips, groin, wrists and ankles, and perhaps the muscles around the knees. None of the meds for fibromyalgia work for me. None of the OA drugs worked for me except Bextra. I see a pain management doctor who has sent me for acupuncture, yoga, cupping, massage therapy, etc. and nothing has helped. I take pain meds that control the pain for the most part except for when I stand or am experiencing a fibromyalgia attack precipitated by stormy or cold weather, more activity than usual, or lack of sleep.

My question is whether or not I will ever have a better outcome for my knees or is this as good as it gets? I have an appt next month with another orthopedic surgeon who is not affiliated with my doctor or that hospital for a second opinion. I will be taking all of my records and pictures with me. Thanks.

I’m wondering the same thing with my hip—after 3 surgeries, the last being a hip replacement, i am in PT currently but am still in pain after 2 months.  Actually since it broke in 2007 and after the first 2 surgeries.  When will the pain end???

Melissa.

I am 22 and need knee surgery unfortunetly i can not afford it but I know i need it done asap cause i alreaady feel like i have arthritis but my grandmother had knee replacement surgery and now i am terrified to get surgery on my knee!! because she had broken her leg after surgery and it docs 2 weeks before they would even xray her leg to find out they would have to go back in and fix her leg and knee!