Greetings Kneegeeks!
I had an OATS, TTT and 2nd arthroscopy on 4/12/02. 8 months before that I had an arthroscopy and lateral release. I also have clubfoot. All of this is on the right leg. I have orthotic inserts in both shoes and a lift on all of my right shoes due to a leg length difference.
I am 30, very active and used to race at Triathlon. I'm hoping to return 04 season (fingers crossed, rub the lucky rabbits foot!) I'm doing knee classes twice a week with my physio (and some ACL crocks!) and training in the gym 6 times a week. I've bought a wobble board which is excellent. 7 months post op I can run short distances, sprint, cycle, circuit train, swim, skip one-legged, etc.
I recently made the decision not to drink at weekends!! I would go out, dance and spend the rest of the week limping. My knee is getting stronger but it clicks regularly and sometimes feels like something is moving. If I feel tired I always take a day off training. You need recovery time. I take glucosamine and multi-vit tablets along with cod liver oil. I have the occasional massage which always helps. I want to try accupuncture. Stretching is very important and i try to do a full set every day. Ying and Yang and all that!
Before the op I couldn't bend my right knee and was 90% w/b on my left leg. It now feels much better but i worry about the clicking. 6 weeks post-op I stopped wearing the brace and went to 1 crutch the day after, 3 days later i could limp along unaided. After 8 weeks I could walk downstairs - carefully! I kept a diary to keep me focussed. Try to keep your PT consistent. I have tried to do things too quickly and paid the price. Always err on the side of caution!
If I get pain I find a hot bath helps. I hope this is useful.
"Attitude not aptitude determines your altitude"
James
