Knee Replacement in 2 weeks

[Guest guest]

I'm scheduled for a total knee replacement in 2 weeks. Still hedging on whether

or not to go through with it. My knee was affected by polio when I was a year

old so has never been as strong or straight as a normal knee.

Expected Benefits: The doctor tells me I'll have less pain, and less chance of

developing hip and back troubles as I age if I have the surgery done. The

outcome of surgery is better now than if I wait any longer. Dr says I'll be

able to return to hiking - which has gotten fewer and fewer miles each year due

to knee pain.

Expected Costs: On the other hand, I'll lose even more of my muscle mass and I

don't have much to lose. I do dog agility as a sport now and have 2 very eager

dogs who love to compete. Dr. says I will not be able to do any dog agility

post surgery because I'll have joint instability forever. this makes me sad.

How do you weigh the cost/benefit of knee replacement surgery?