I had the perfect recovery on both of my knees (one at a time). I was in the hospital 2 days (doc said 2 to 4 and I ignored the last). But I was required to walk so many steps before they would release me and I did more on my first trip out (which was the afternoon of surgery as I recall). I came home with a walker, the ice machine (it went around the knee and the container had ice in it and it kept the knee cold and assumed helped in swelling), the machine that kept the knee in motion had been delivered before. I walked into the house when I came home. I was on the walker the first time probably a week, less the second time (although I did keep it by my "bed" for I didn't want to fall in the middle of the night). Cane less than a week both times. Once I wasn't using the cane, I started driving -- to rehab and to get my blood tested -- I didn't ask, I just did (we live in a little town and I'm a mile from the hospital). I feel sure I could have traveled on a plane anytime after my 4 week check up. But you will set off the metal detector and so have the fun pat down and stuff. And don't ask for a card from the doc because the people at the airport told me that they don't trust them because you can "fake" them. (yeah, right, an "old" lady with a card saying she has had knee surgery has a fake card -- LOL!) But ask your doc. I didn't have any need so didn't ask. I did have my surgery 2 months apart because I did so well. It is the best thing I've ever done.

Your statement, "Dr pushing me to have this surgery," is concerning.

Strongly encourage you to get a second, or even third opinion with an orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in knees, who will take the time to answer all your questions.

My doctor didn't push me at all to get the surgery. I tried shots and it was cleaned out but didn't help. I was glad I chose to have it done right away but the doctor let me decide.

You have already gotten good advice...I have had both hips and knees replaced. Try to do about 6 weeks of exercises before surgery to build up muscles around your joint ....and be sure to do all of your PT exercises...even if it hurts. Take pain pill before going to PT . Good luck...but if you have pain, it will be worth it.

Hello! Think my appointment with the orthopedic surgeon was just a week after yours! I think when you see a surgeon, they tend to offer surgical solutions. That said, mine did offer PT. The surgeon said, only I can determine when it’s bad enough that I should go have the surgery done (both of my knees lack curtilage at this point), but when I went to see my PT, she was able to do a full range of testing, which helped me to quantify some of the concerns. For example, she tested current range of motion in a couple of directions. They also have questionnaires which help address quality of life. She was also able to offer how I feel compared to her average patient. She also found some slight muscle imbalances, which if we are able to correct that, may help current comfort and functioning. I have not had the surgery done yet, but in discussing it with the surgeon, my understanding is that it is typical that once you get home, there are approximately 4 to 6 weeks of physical therapy where someone comes to your house, because you can’t drive yet. Obviously some of the testimonials above are different. I do think PT continues past that point, in order to get as much strength and use out of the new joint. My surgeon also seemed to make a point of saying that currently, knees only last 15 to 20 years. He didn’t have any suggestions for what I would do when the time comes for that. I am very thankful to reading other peoples experience here, and will look to see what you decide to do. Good luck!

Thanks everyone, been seeing Dr's, put off surgery for a while.

dr pushing was a gp. Did not settle for his opinion. Other Dr's not

in a rush to surgery.