New here

[Guest guest]

I joined the group in 2003 because the title says OPEN FORUM. It wasn't a

mystery to me why they used those words

all good,

Duncan

>

> Maybe the group name should change to [Coconut Oil et al] 

>

> I like reading other things. VCO is great but it's too narrow to talk about

> exclusively-although sometimes the discussions get way too technical for me.

>

> Laurie

>

[Guest guest]

The best thing you can do for lainey right now is reposition as much as possible to keep her off of that right side. Don't let her lay in swings or bouncy seats unless you can prop her her to the left with a rolled up blanket. That didn't work too well for us. When she is asleep on her back, try to position her head to the left. My son Trevor is 1 year old today. When he was 2 1/2 months old, I noticed the very same thing you did. right side and all. We went to the ped immediately and he was diagnosed with plagiocephaly. She gave me the referrals to a physical therapist to rule out torticollis, which he did not have. He just preferred his right side. Then we went to a Hanger office. He had a 10mm diaganol difference. That is moderate. We tried repositioing religiously until he was 5

months old, to no avail. He still measured a 10mm. He wore a Hanger helmet for 3 months and got down to 0mm. He still has a little flatness on the back right, but only noticeable when his hair is wet and I don't even think anybody else woould notice it. The bulging forehead is gone, which was my main concern.

You said you have an appt with the ped next week. some peds say "it will round itself out." Don't listen to that! Many times it does not and now is the perfect time to get the ball rolling. Insist on a referral to an orthotist. If you don't get one, you may need to change peds until one will give you one.

Do you have insurance? You are right. They are expensive. The Cranial Technologies DOC band are $3800. That company seems to be the one that everybody loves the best. The closest one to me was 4 hours away and I had a Hanger in my town, so we went with Hanger. It was only $1500, start to finish.

So for now, you want to repo. Bumbo chairs are GREAT. ny Jump Ups and Exersaucers are good. You may need to prop her in with blankets. and a front carrier. Anything to keep her off of the back of her head. It may not round out with repo, but at least it won't get any worse, which will be less time in a helmet.

Good luck and keep us posted.

From: deanaimee <deanaimee@...>Plagiocephaly Sent: Fri, February 18, 2011 11:17:54 PMSubject: new here

Hello :)Sounds like you guys are a wealth of knowledge over here!I have just started research and came across this group.My daughter is 4 months old next week and I have noticed that she has a flat spot on her right side back of her head and her forhead is pushed out on that same size, kind of like a trapezoid. I posted some pictures on here. Here name is Lainey, if you'd like to look and give your opinion. I go back and forth with how bad I think it is. I would love your first impression on the severity, please. We see her pediatrician next week and I plan on discussing it with her then. I wonder if she needs a helmet or if she's ok as she is.Looks like these bands aren't cheap and my husband just started a new business, so we are in the hole a bit. Bad timing with the economy so slow. Of course, we'll do what we need to do, but I am hoping the doc doesn't think it's too bad.Shoot me straight, ok? I really want to know what you

all think.Thanks :)Aimee

[Guest guest]

Hi Aimee,

Welcome to the group. I can definitely see the asymmetry. she is young enough

you may be able to try repositioning, or go straight to a band. I would at least

ask for an evaluation by a specialist who can measure the head. Does your baby

have torticollis? This is tightening of the neck muscles on one side so the head

doesn't have full mobility or baby has a strong preference for one side. This is

a big contributor to plagio. If tort is present you will need physical therapy

to resolve it. the therapist mostly shows you stretches to do at home. I think

all states have an early intervention program and they can evaluate your child,

and possibly provide therapy for the tort if it is enough to cause delays.

As for repo I think there are tips in the files section. It looks like you

already have a bumbo chair, which is good for keeping babies off their head.

Also don't use bouncer, swing or car seat (except in the car). try a baby

carrier to keep pressure off the head, and when baby is sleeping try to get her

to rest on the prominent part of her head.

Let us know what the ped says.

-christine

sydney, 5 yrs, starband grad

>

> Hello :)Sounds like you guys are a wealth of knowledge over here!

> I have just started research and came across this group.

> My daughter is 4 months old next week and I have noticed that she has a flat

spot on her right side back of her head and her forhead is pushed out on that

same size, kind of like a trapezoid. I posted some pictures on here. Here name

is Lainey, if you'd like to look and give your opinion. I go back and forth with

how bad I think it is.

> I would love your first impression on the severity, please. We see her

pediatrician next week and I plan on discussing it with her then. I wonder if

she needs a helmet or if she's ok as she is.

> Looks like these bands aren't cheap and my husband just started a new

business, so we are in the hole a bit. Bad timing with the economy so slow. Of

course, we'll do what we need to do, but I am hoping the doc doesn't think it's

too bad.

> Shoot me straight, ok? I really want to know what you all think.

> Thanks

> Aimee

>

[Guest guest]

She looks like she definitely needs a helmet to me. I don't see a lot of facial

asymmetry but that often shows up later when some of the baby fat decreases. The

growth on the back of her head is clearly bulging off center and around the

side. I'd at least go to an orthotist or cranial tech and have her measured by a

professional regardless of how a pediatrician down plays the problem or not.

Most of us had peds tell us it wasn't a problem until we realized they were

wrong.

Good luck,

Eli

>

> Hello :)Sounds like you guys are a wealth of knowledge over here!

> I have just started research and came across this group.

> My daughter is 4 months old next week and I have noticed that she has a flat

spot on her right side back of her head and her forhead is pushed out on that

same size, kind of like a trapezoid. I posted some pictures on here. Here name

is Lainey, if you'd like to look and give your opinion. I go back and forth with

how bad I think it is.

> I would love your first impression on the severity, please. We see her

pediatrician next week and I plan on discussing it with her then. I wonder if

she needs a helmet or if she's ok as she is.

> Looks like these bands aren't cheap and my husband just started a new

business, so we are in the hole a bit. Bad timing with the economy so slow. Of

course, we'll do what we need to do, but I am hoping the doc doesn't think it's

too bad.

> Shoot me straight, ok? I really want to know what you all think.

> Thanks

> Aimee

>

[Guest guest]

Eli,

Thanks so much for your reply.

I just found a Hanger facility less than a mile from my house, so i will try to get her seen next week.Thanks again!

Aimee

From: edpsp <edpsp@...>Plagiocephaly Sent: Sat, February 19, 2011 2:05:49 PMSubject: Re: new here

She looks like she definitely needs a helmet to me. I don't see a lot of facial asymmetry but that often shows up later when some of the baby fat decreases. The growth on the back of her head is clearly bulging off center and around the side. I'd at least go to an orthotist or cranial tech and have her measured by a professional regardless of how a pediatrician down plays the problem or not. Most of us had peds tell us it wasn't a problem until we realized they were wrong.Good luck,Eli>> Hello :)Sounds like you guys are a wealth of knowledge over here!> I have just started research and came across this group.> My daughter is 4 months old next week and I have noticed that she has a flat spot on her

right side back of her head and her forhead is pushed out on that same size, kind of like a trapezoid. I posted some pictures on here. Here name is Lainey, if you'd like to look and give your opinion. I go back and forth with how bad I think it is. > I would love your first impression on the severity, please. We see her pediatrician next week and I plan on discussing it with her then. I wonder if she needs a helmet or if she's ok as she is.> Looks like these bands aren't cheap and my husband just started a new business, so we are in the hole a bit. Bad timing with the economy so slow. Of course, we'll do what we need to do, but I am hoping the doc doesn't think it's too bad.> Shoot me straight, ok? I really want to know what you all think.> Thanks > Aimee>

[Guest guest]

Thank you all for responding so quickly

I do have insurance, but it specifically states that it will not cover a helmet

for any reason. How annoying.

I have a Hanger right around the corner from my house.the location had been an

ice cream shop we frequented and when we went yesterday, it had, POOF, turned

into Hanger! How weird!

I guess we'll try Hanger, since we will be self pay. Fun times.

Thanks again for all the info!!!!

>

> The best thing you can do for lainey right now is reposition as much as

possible

> to keep her off of that right side. Don't let her lay in swings or bouncy

seats

> unless you can prop her her to the left with a rolled up blanket. That didn't

> work too well for us. When she is asleep on her back, try to position her head

> to the left. My son Trevor is 1 year old today. When he was 2 1/2 months old,

I

> noticed the very same thing you did. right side and all. We went to the ped

> immediately and he was diagnosed with plagiocephaly. She gave me the referrals

> to a physical therapist to rule out torticollis, which he did not have. He

just

> preferred his right side. Then we went to a Hanger office. He had a 10mm

> diaganol difference. That is moderate. We tried repositioing religiously until

> he was 5 months old, to no avail. He still measured a 10mm. He wore a Hanger

> helmet for 3 months and got down to 0mm. He still has a little flatness on the

> back right, but only noticeable when his hair is wet and I don't even think

> anybody else woould notice it. The bulging forehead is gone, which was my main

> concern.

>      You said you have an appt with the ped next week. some peds say " it

will

> round itself out. "   Don't listen to that! Many times it does not and now is

the

> perfect time to get the ball rolling. Insist on a referral to an orthotist. If

> you don't get one, you may need to change peds until one will give you one.

>

>     Do you have insurance? You are right. They are expensive. The Cranial

> Technologies DOC band are $3800. That company seems to be the one that

everybody

> loves the best. The closest one to me was 4 hours away and I had a Hanger in

my

> town, so we went with Hanger. It was only $1500, start to finish.

>

>      So for now, you want to repo. Bumbo chairs are GREAT. ny Jump Ups

and

> Exersaucers are good. You may need to prop her in with blankets. and a front

> carrier. Anything to keep her off of the back of her head. It may not round

out

> with repo, but at least it won't get any worse, which will be less time in a

> helmet.

>      Good luck and keep us posted.

>

>

>

>

> ________________________________

> From: deanaimee <deanaimee@...>

> Plagiocephaly

> Sent: Fri, February 18, 2011 11:17:54 PM

> Subject: new here

>

>  

> Hello :)Sounds like you guys are a wealth of knowledge over here!

> I have just started research and came across this group.

> My daughter is 4 months old next week and I have noticed that she has a flat

> spot on her right side back of her head and her forhead is pushed out on that

> same size, kind of like a trapezoid. I posted some pictures on here. Here name

> is Lainey, if you'd like to look and give your opinion. I go back and forth

with

> how bad I think it is.

>

> I would love your first impression on the severity, please. We see her

> pediatrician next week and I plan on discussing it with her then. I wonder if

> she needs a helmet or if she's ok as she is.

> Looks like these bands aren't cheap and my husband just started a new

business,

> so we are in the hole a bit. Bad timing with the economy so slow. Of course,

> we'll do what we need to do, but I am hoping the doc doesn't think it's too

bad.

> Shoot me straight, ok? I really want to know what you all think.

> Thanks

> Aimee

>

[Guest guest]

Before you get a helmet/band you'll need a referral from a doctor - either your

ped or a specialist such as a cranio facial plastic surgeon. As for the Hanger

around the corner, you really need to check out the particular ortho and their

experience. You don't want to waste your money on a band that isn't good, and

the ortho has a lot to do with the results. Since it is close by it is worth

checking out, but you'll have to find out if they've done bands, how many, what

kind of results they have... I admit I didn't do my homework before my daughter

was banded, but I was very lucky that we had a very experienced ortho.

-christine

sydney, 5 yrs, starband grad

> >

> > The best thing you can do for lainey right now is reposition as much as

possible

> > to keep her off of that right side. Don't let her lay in swings or bouncy

seats

> > unless you can prop her her to the left with a rolled up blanket. That

didn't

> > work too well for us. When she is asleep on her back, try to position her

head

> > to the left. My son Trevor is 1 year old today. When he was 2 1/2 months

old, I

> > noticed the very same thing you did. right side and all. We went to the ped

> > immediately and he was diagnosed with plagiocephaly. She gave me the

referrals

> > to a physical therapist to rule out torticollis, which he did not have. He

just

> > preferred his right side. Then we went to a Hanger office. He had a 10mm

> > diaganol difference. That is moderate. We tried repositioing religiously

until

> > he was 5 months old, to no avail. He still measured a 10mm. He wore a Hanger

> > helmet for 3 months and got down to 0mm. He still has a little flatness on

the

> > back right, but only noticeable when his hair is wet and I don't even think

> > anybody else woould notice it. The bulging forehead is gone, which was my

main

> > concern.

> >      You said you have an appt with the ped next week. some peds say " it

will

> > round itself out. "   Don't listen to that! Many times it does not and now is

the

> > perfect time to get the ball rolling. Insist on a referral to an orthotist.

If

> > you don't get one, you may need to change peds until one will give you one.

> >

> >     Do you have insurance? You are right. They are expensive. The Cranial

> > Technologies DOC band are $3800. That company seems to be the one that

everybody

> > loves the best. The closest one to me was 4 hours away and I had a Hanger in

my

> > town, so we went with Hanger. It was only $1500, start to finish.

> >

> >      So for now, you want to repo. Bumbo chairs are GREAT. ny Jump

Ups and

> > Exersaucers are good. You may need to prop her in with blankets. and a front

> > carrier. Anything to keep her off of the back of her head. It may not round

out

> > with repo, but at least it won't get any worse, which will be less time in a

> > helmet.

> >      Good luck and keep us posted.

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > ________________________________

> > From: deanaimee <deanaimee@>

> > Plagiocephaly

> > Sent: Fri, February 18, 2011 11:17:54 PM

> > Subject: new here

> >

> >  

> > Hello :)Sounds like you guys are a wealth of knowledge over here!

> > I have just started research and came across this group.

> > My daughter is 4 months old next week and I have noticed that she has a flat

> > spot on her right side back of her head and her forhead is pushed out on

that

> > same size, kind of like a trapezoid. I posted some pictures on here. Here

name

> > is Lainey, if you'd like to look and give your opinion. I go back and forth

with

> > how bad I think it is.

> >

> > I would love your first impression on the severity, please. We see her

> > pediatrician next week and I plan on discussing it with her then. I wonder

if

> > she needs a helmet or if she's ok as she is.

> > Looks like these bands aren't cheap and my husband just started a new

business,

> > so we are in the hole a bit. Bad timing with the economy so slow. Of course,

> > we'll do what we need to do, but I am hoping the doc doesn't think it's too

bad.

> > Shoot me straight, ok? I really want to know what you all think.

> > Thanks

> > Aimee

> >

>

[Guest guest]

This age is pretty common and the results should be pretty good. I'm not sure

what kind of band you'll get, but a lot depends on how well the band fits and

how good your ortho is at adjusting it. It should fit close enough to hold

growth in the prominent areas and have room to grow where the head is flat. My

daughter was younger when banded, but I've been in this group for years, and

most babies who start before 12 months have good results. Many babies banded

later do to, but it often takes longer and overall the improvement isn't as

much.

Let us know how she does.

-christine

sydney, 5 yrs, starband grad

>

> Hi Everyone,

> I am new here, my name is and I have a daughter who is turning 9 months

on March 2nd. We are in British Columbia and have just been to see the

Occupational Therapy Department of BC Childrens Hospital. Our daughter is going

to get scanned for the helmet this week and will then probably be recieving the

helmet by 9 1/2 months. My question is does anyone have any history with a

child of this age getting the helmet? Any successes or experience in the length

of time that she will likely wear it is for?

> Thanks,

>

[Guest guest]

we got our band at 9 months also.

My daughter wore her helmet from 9 months to 14 months and we went from 10mm down to 2mm.

She was in a Danmar Helmet.

Hooper

Camille Hooper 16mo

New Here

Hi Everyone, I am new here, my name is and I have a daughter who is turning 9 months on March 2nd. We are in British Columbia and have just been to see the Occupational Therapy Department of BC Childrens Hospital. Our daughter is going to get scanned for the helmet this week and will then probably be recieving the helmet by 9 1/2 months. My question is does anyone have any history with a child of this age getting the helmet? Any successes or experience in the length of time that she will likely wear it is for? Thanks,

[Guest guest]

Welcome!

My baby was put in a Doc Band at 9 months. Her face (eyes and ears) greatly

improved in the band and her flat spot improved a lot. I do still see a little

flatness on her head, however, it is much better. Good luck and keep posting!

>

> Hi Everyone,

> I am new here, my name is and I have a daughter who is turning 9 months

on March 2nd. We are in British Columbia and have just been to see the

Occupational Therapy Department of BC Childrens Hospital. Our daughter is going

to get scanned for the helmet this week and will then probably be recieving the

helmet by 9 1/2 months. My question is does anyone have any history with a

child of this age getting the helmet? Any successes or experience in the length

of time that she will likely wear it is for?

> Thanks,

>

[Guest guest]

You¹re an RN you know the answer to this. Get Thee To An Orthopedic

Specialist, actually, several (take a poll) and find out what they

recommend! Ask around for references. Where are you? Maybe someone here

knows someone.

Don¹t wait on this, but you know that.

F

TKR 1/15/09

on 3/5/11 11:21 AM, deVonnaB at vonstrudel@... wrote:

>

>

>

>

>

> Hello everyone. I just joined the group and need a bunch of encouragement. I

> used to be tuff but have turned into a fully feathered chicken. I have needed

> something done about my knee for a long time but every time I w

> Was about to get really serious about it it would either quit hurting or I

> would read about a new and improved proceedure about to be perfected. I also

> needed back surgery which I had put off for the same reason. Finally

> coouldn't put the back surgery off as I could no longer walk. I had done a

> good job of researching surgeons and the back surgery went fine except for the

> fact that ii had a heart attack in the recovery room. That surgery seems to

> have gone well too but am now on some heart mess.

>

> Anyway my right knee was restructured after an auto accident. It was an

> excellent surgery which allowed me to work for over forty years as a

> hairdresser and registered nurse. I have put it offf too long and now in

> terrible pain. I have favored thatleg till I ha e very little strength in

> that leg.

>

> I don't know if a tnt is an option sin e so much tendon, ligament and bone

> damage was done in the original injury. I have never been able to bend it

> much since the orfiginal surgery. I had an orthbroscopic done a few years ago

> but that didn't heal much. I have to bite tthe bullet now and get ssomething

> done. I have been trying to think of some exercises. I can do to gain some

> strength but it is very painful.

>

> Anyway that's where I am. Any suggestions? Thanks, deeded

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Pain is an individual thing. And tolerance for it varies too. However, as you

no doubt know by now, no pain = no gain with respect to range of motion after

any joint surgery.

That said, I can only offer you encouragement on two fronts: 1. Get the TKR as

soon as you can...(but while you are waiting for the surgery date be extremely

aggressive trying to get the injured leg muscles back into shape... think of it

this way: Twice the work before surgery = half the work afterwards.) and 2.

Be sure you do not slack off on trying to regain Rage of Motion (ROM) right

after surgery.

I had my left knee replaced on 14 December. A skiing accident 33 yrs ago

required surgical intervention which lasted for 30 yrs, but I too noticed

degradation of strength and pain during recent years. I'm sorry I waited the 3

yrs of pain before getting the TKR, but I've been " paying my penance " by being

very diligent with exercises. Yes, they cause me some pain, but I took pain

meds (per doctor's instructions) prior to excercise during the early days

post-surgery.

The result: On thursday, my Physical Therapist measured my flexibility at 136

degrees....that is better than it ever was throughout the 33 yrs post the

original surgery. Yes, stretching causes pain, but 3x per day for 20 seconds

each was not too much to bear considering the rewards. Work up to it by doing

bends 3x up to the edge of the painful sensation...and then do the painful ones

for 3x in a row, with 20 seconds for each. Same ritual each day let me see

progress on a week to week basis when I visited the outpatient PT for

measurements.

As everyone on this list will tell you: " Your mileage might vary " but I can

tell you from observing patients around me at the PT session, those who rely

solely on the PT and don't do exercises on their own do not achieve the best

results.

So... The big step is to find a surgeon and get it scheduled... the small

step(s) are to commit to doing the exercises. I can tell you that the results

can be spectacular. I'm no longer in pain, can run up and down stairs, am

gradually regaining leg strength, and expecting my full balance facilities to

return within a few more months.

If nothing else, you should try to memorize the pain you are in nowadays, and

use that as the motivating factor throughout your post-op exercising.... You'll

really be surprised and pleased with the outcome. (waiting for a " new and

better " surgery technique is no longer fruitful, the doctors have the techniques

now.)

Best Wishes

-skip-

>

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Hello everyone. I just joined the group and need a bunch of encouragement.

I

> > used to be tuff but have turned into a fully feathered chicken. I have

needed

> > something done about my knee for a long time but every time I w

> > Was about to get really serious about it it would either quit hurting or I

> > would read about a new and improved proceedure about to be perfected. I

also

> > needed back surgery which I had put off for the same reason. Finally

> > coouldn't put the back surgery off as I could no longer walk. I had done a

> > good job of researching surgeons and the back surgery went fine except for

the

> > fact that ii had a heart attack in the recovery room. That surgery seems to

> > have gone well too but am now on some heart mess.

> >

> > Anyway my right knee was restructured after an auto accident. It was an

> > excellent surgery which allowed me to work for over forty years as a

> > hairdresser and registered nurse. I have put it offf too long and now in

> > terrible pain. I have favored thatleg till I ha e very little strength in

> > that leg.

> >

> > I don't know if a tnt is an option sin e so much tendon, ligament and bone

> > damage was done in the original injury. I have never been able to bend it

> > much since the orfiginal surgery. I had an orthbroscopic done a few years

ago

> > but that didn't heal much. I have to bite tthe bullet now and get

ssomething

> > done. I have been trying to think of some exercises. I can do to gain some

> > strength but it is very painful.

> >

> > Anyway that's where I am. Any suggestions? Thanks, deeded

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you!! It is great!

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 6, 2011, at 1:55 PM, Lynn <lynnf_99@...> wrote:

> I found this website, Anne:

>

> http://www.wmt.com/kneesite/patients/preopex.asp

>

> Good luck! When is your surgery? Mine is 24 March.

>

> LynnF

> LTHR Oct 09

>

> It was a wild, cold, seasonable night of March, with a pale moon, lying on her

back as though the wind had tilted her . . .- Louis son, " Dr.

Jekyll and Mr. Hyde " .Visit my art blog: http://adreamseyeview.blogspot.com/

>

>

>

> From: tfsbj7 <tfsbj7@...>

> Subject: Re: new here

> Joint Replacement

> Date: Saturday, March 5, 2011, 3:39 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Pain is an individual thing. And tolerance for it varies too. However,

as you no doubt know by now, no pain = no gain with respect to range of motion

after any joint surgery.

>

> That said, I can only offer you encouragement on two fronts: 1. Get the TKR

as soon as you can...(but while you are waiting for the surgery date be

extremely aggressive trying to get the injured leg muscles back into shape...

think of it this way: Twice the work before surgery = half the work

afterwards.) and 2. Be sure you do not slack off on trying to regain Rage of

Motion (ROM) right after surgery.

>

> I had my left knee replaced on 14 December. A skiing accident 33 yrs ago

required surgical intervention which lasted for 30 yrs, but I too noticed

degradation of strength and pain during recent years. I'm sorry I waited the 3

yrs of pain before getting the TKR, but I've been " paying my penance " by being

very diligent with exercises. Yes, they cause me some pain, but I took pain

meds (per doctor's instructions) prior to excercise during the early days

post-surgery.

>

> The result: On thursday, my Physical Therapist measured my flexibility at

136 degrees....that is better than it ever was throughout the 33 yrs post the

original surgery. Yes, stretching causes pain, but 3x per day for 20 seconds

each was not too much to bear considering the rewards. Work up to it by doing

bends 3x up to the edge of the painful sensation...and then do the painful ones

for 3x in a row, with 20 seconds for each. Same ritual each day let me see

progress on a week to week basis when I visited the outpatient PT for

measurements.

>

> As everyone on this list will tell you: " Your mileage might vary " but I can

tell you from observing patients around me at the PT session, those who rely

solely on the PT and don't do exercises on their own do not achieve the best

results.

>

> So... The big step is to find a surgeon and get it scheduled... the small

step(s) are to commit to doing the exercises. I can tell you that the results

can be spectacular. I'm no longer in pain, can run up and down stairs, am

gradually regaining leg strength, and expecting my full balance facilities to

return within a few more months.

>

> If nothing else, you should try to memorize the pain you are in nowadays, and

use that as the motivating factor throughout your post-op exercising.... You'll

really be surprised and pleased with the outcome. (waiting for a " new and

better " surgery technique is no longer fruitful, the doctors have the techniques

now.)

>

> Best Wishes

>

> -skip-

>

>

>

> >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > > Hello everyone. I just joined the group and need a bunch of

encouragement. I

>

> > > used to be tuff but have turned into a fully feathered chicken. I have

needed

>

> > > something done about my knee for a long time but every time I w

>

> > > Was about to get really serious about it it would either quit hurting or

I

>

> > > would read about a new and improved proceedure about to be perfected. I

also

>

> > > needed back surgery which I had put off for the same reason. Finally

>

> > > coouldn't put the back surgery off as I could no longer walk. I had done

a

>

> > > good job of researching surgeons and the back surgery went fine except for

the

>

> > > fact that ii had a heart attack in the recovery room. That surgery seems

to

>

> > > have gone well too but am now on some heart mess.

>

> > >

>

> > > Anyway my right knee was restructured after an auto accident. It was an

>

> > > excellent surgery which allowed me to work for over forty years as a

>

> > > hairdresser and registered nurse. I have put it offf too long and now in

>

> > > terrible pain. I have favored thatleg till I ha e very little strength in

>

> > > that leg.

>

> > >

>

> > > I don't know if a tnt is an option sin e so much tendon, ligament and bone

>

> > > damage was done in the original injury. I have never been able to bend it

>

> > > much since the orfiginal surgery. I had an orthbroscopic done a few years

ago

>

> > > but that didn't heal much. I have to bite tthe bullet now and get

ssomething

>

> > > done. I have been trying to think of some exercises. I can do to gain

some

>

> > > strength but it is very painful.

>

> > >

>

> > > Anyway that's where I am. Any suggestions? Thanks, deeded

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> > >

>

> >

>

> >

>

> >

>

> >

>

> >

[Guest guest]

Thank you. I definitely need more strength in my arms and abs.

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 6, 2011, at 1:59 PM, Adrienne Ward <Award@...> wrote:

> /Hi Anne:

> Prior to my TKR (10/09) I was told to strengthen the " good " leg becoz I

> would be depending upon it a lot during recovery, and to strengthen my

> arms for the same reason. I did pretty good on the arms, many reps of 3#

> weights. Also, I was advised by someone who had had TKR a year before me

> that the ability to sit up in bed without using the leg for downward

> pressure was important - so I did crunches. That helped too. The most

> important pre-op move was getting the raised toilet seat installed by my

> husband who tends to put things off until somewhat past the last minute.

> But not this time!

> Good luck with surgery and recovery. Do all your post-op rehab P/T

> religously. ////Adrienne

> /

> ===========================================================================

>

> On 3/6/2011 12:00 PM, Anne on wrote:

> >

> > Is there a website showing what exercises to do before surgery?

> >

> >

> >

> > From: tfsbj7 <tfsbj7@... <mailto:tfsbj7%40>>

> > Subject: Re: new here

> > Joint Replacement

> > <mailto:Joint Replacement%40>

> > Date: Saturday, March 5, 2011, 3:39 PM

> >

> >

> >

> > Pain is an individual thing. And tolerance for it varies too. However,

> > as you no doubt know by now, no pain = no gain with respect to range

> > of motion after any joint surgery.

> >

> > That said, I can only offer you encouragement on two fronts: 1. Get

> > the TKR as soon as you can...(but while you are waiting for the

> > surgery date be extremely aggressive trying to get the injured leg

> > muscles back into shape... think of it this way: Twice the work before

> > surgery = half the work afterwards.) and 2. Be sure you do not slack

> > off on trying to regain Rage of Motion (ROM) right after surgery.

> >

> > I had my left knee replaced on 14 December. A skiing accident 33 yrs

> > ago required surgical intervention which lasted for 30 yrs, but I too

> > noticed degradation of strength and pain during recent years. I'm

> > sorry I waited the 3 yrs of pain before getting the TKR, but I've been

> > " paying my penance " by being very diligent with exercises. Yes, they

> > cause me some pain, but I took pain meds (per doctor's instructions)

> > prior to excercise during the early days post-surgery.

> >

> > The result: On thursday, my Physical Therapist measured my flexibility

> > at 136 degrees....that is better than it ever was throughout the 33

> > yrs post the original surgery. Yes, stretching causes pain, but 3x per

> > day for 20 seconds each was not too much to bear considering the

> > rewards. Work up to it by doing bends 3x up to the edge of the painful

> > sensation...and then do the painful ones for 3x in a row, with 20

> > seconds for each. Same ritual each day let me see progress on a week

> > to week basis when I visited the outpatient PT for measurements.

> >

> > As everyone on this list will tell you: " Your mileage might vary " but

> > I can tell you from observing patients around me at the PT session,

> > those who rely solely on the PT and don't do exercises on their own do

> > not achieve the best results.

> >

> > So... The big step is to find a surgeon and get it scheduled... the

> > small step(s) are to commit to doing the exercises. I can tell you

> > that the results can be spectacular. I'm no longer in pain, can run up

> > and down stairs, am gradually regaining leg strength, and expecting my

> > full balance facilities to return within a few more months.

> >

> > If nothing else, you should try to memorize the pain you are in

> > nowadays, and use that as the motivating factor throughout your

> > post-op exercising.... You'll really be surprised and pleased with the

> > outcome. (waiting for a " new and better " surgery technique is no

> > longer fruitful, the doctors have the techniques now.)

> >

> > Best Wishes

> >

> > -skip-

> >

> >

> >

> > >

> >

> > > >

> >

> > > >

> >

> > > >

> >

>

>

[Guest guest]

Mine will be a long way off.  I am more than 100 lb. overweight, so I am

working on taking off as much as possible to be a better candidate.  Also, I am

64 with no insurance, so I am waiting for Medicare to kick in, in December.

From: tfsbj7 <tfsbj7@...>

Subject: Re: new here

Joint Replacement

Date: Saturday, March 5, 2011, 3:39 PM

 

 

   

     

     

      Pain is an individual thing.  And tolerance for it varies too. 

However, as you no doubt know by now, no pain = no gain with respect to range of

motion after any joint surgery. 

That said, I can only offer you encouragement on two fronts:  1.  Get the TKR

as soon as you can...(but while you are waiting for the surgery date be

extremely aggressive trying to get the injured leg muscles back into shape...

think of it this way:  Twice the work before surgery = half the work

afterwards.)   and 2.  Be sure you do not slack off on trying to regain Rage

of Motion (ROM) right after surgery.

I had my left knee replaced on 14 December.   A skiing accident 33 yrs ago

required surgical intervention which lasted for 30 yrs, but I too noticed

degradation of strength and pain during recent years.   I'm sorry I waited

the 3 yrs of pain before getting the TKR, but I've been " paying my penance " by

being very diligent with exercises.   Yes, they cause me some pain, but I

took pain meds (per doctor's instructions) prior to excercise during the early

days post-surgery.

The result:   On thursday, my Physical Therapist measured my flexibility at

136 degrees....that is better than it ever was throughout the 33 yrs post the

original surgery.   Yes, stretching causes pain, but 3x per day for 20

seconds each was not too much to bear considering the rewards.  Work up to it

by doing bends 3x up to the edge of the painful sensation...and then do the

painful ones for 3x in a row,  with 20 seconds for each.   Same ritual each

day let me see progress on a week to week basis when I visited the outpatient PT

for measurements.

As everyone on this list will tell you:  " Your mileage might vary "   but I can

tell you from observing patients around me at the PT session, those who rely

solely on the PT and don't do exercises on their own do not achieve the best

results.

So...  The big step is to find a surgeon and get it scheduled... the small

step(s) are to commit to doing the exercises.   I can tell you that the

results can be spectacular.   I'm no longer in pain, can run up and down

stairs, am gradually regaining leg strength, and expecting my full balance

facilities to return within a few more months.

If nothing else, you should try to memorize the pain you are in nowadays, and

use that as the motivating factor throughout your post-op exercising.... You'll

really be surprised and pleased with the outcome.   (waiting for a " new and

better " surgery technique is no longer fruitful, the doctors have the techniques

now.)

Best Wishes

-skip-

>

> > 

> > 

> > 

> >   

> >

> > Hello everyone.  I just joined the group and need a bunch of

encouragement.  I

> > used to be tuff but have turned into a fully feathered chicken.  I have

needed

> > something done about my knee for a long time but every time I w

> >  Was about to get really serious about it it would either quit hurting or I

> > would read about a new and improved proceedure about to be perfected.  I

also

> > needed back surgery which I had put off for the same reason.  Finally

> > coouldn't put the back surgery off as I could no longer walk.  I had done a

> > good job of researching surgeons and the back surgery went fine except for

the

> > fact that ii had a heart attack in the recovery room.  That surgery seems

to

> > have gone well too but am now on some heart mess.

> >

> > Anyway my right knee was restructured after an auto accident.  It was an

> > excellent surgery which allowed me to work for over forty years as a

> > hairdresser and registered nurse.  I have put it offf too long and now in

> > terrible pain.  I have favored thatleg till I ha e very little strength in

> > that leg.

> >

> > I don't know if a tnt is an option sin e so much tendon, ligament and bone

> > damage was done in the original injury.  I have never been able to bend it

> > much since the orfiginal surgery.  I had an orthbroscopic done a few years

ago

> > but that didn't heal much.   I have to bite tthe bullet now and get

ssomething

> > done.  I have been trying to think of some exercises. I can do to gain some

> > strength but it is very painful.

> >

> > Anyway that's where I am.   Any suggestions?   Thanks,  deeded

> >

> > 

> >   

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I just recently found this group. I'm 71 years old, and haven't used a computer

long enough to do everything. One of my sons nagged me into this.

I have had SLE of the central nervous system since 1986. About 15 years ago I

was diagnosed with RA also.

I'm really interested in still learning all I can about these diseases.

I'm hoping maybe I can learn something new, or be of some help to someone else.

Hopefully we never stop learning.

I plan on reading some of the past messages to see what everyone is dealing

with.

Thanks.

Helen

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 4/17/2011 8:05:00 P.M. Central Daylight Time,

maryanne.waspe1@... writes:

i've had the surgery on the 15th and hurt it on the 11th. i don't know

what i had for sure, i just got it fixed. it was very done as needed to

be done and they had to find someone that could do it which took a while.

It is harder because its very difficult to get dressed, showered ,wash your

hair etc.

I have had one knee done, and Jeff has had both done, and we both think its

much

More of a challenge.

Sleeping is difficult as you can't sleep on either side to begin with.,

I also think PT is a bit harder as your arms have a huge range of movement

in them, and you really need to get it back

I have just remembered also that Jeff and I have reverse shoulders, but my

recent one which was done 2 months ago was a straight forward revision.

If you have had your knees done you will be fine.

Yours might also be more complex in that you have a fracture. Is it a

straight forward shoulder you are having or a reverse? Are your tendons

intact?

hope this helps you when is your surgery ?

mary

[Guest guest]

Surgery for second knee is scheduled for April 19th this Tuesday! First knee

was done Dec 7th 2010. Would appreciate you're thoughts and or prayers as I am

nervous this time. Thanks!

Sent from my MetroPCS Wireless Phone

" maryanne.waspe1@... " <maryanne.waspe1@...> wrote:

>It is harder because its very difficult to get dressed, showered ,wash your

>hair etc.

>I have had one knee done, and Jeff has had both done, and we both think its

>much

>More of a challenge.

> Sleeping is difficult as you can't sleep on either side to begin with.,

>I also think PT is a bit harder as your arms have a huge range of movement

>in them, and you really need to get it back

>I have just remembered also that Jeff and I have reverse shoulders, but my

>recent one which was done 2 months ago was a straight forward revision.

>If you have had your knees done you will be fine.

>Yours might also be more complex in that you have a fracture. Is it a

>straight forward shoulder you are having or a reverse? Are your tendons

>intact?

>hope this helps you when is your surgery ?

>

>mary

>-- Re: new here

>

>

> hi mary, i guess i just want support and encourgment it's been 5 years

>since my knees and people act like this is worse. thanks, jennifer

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Best of luck! You did it before, you can do it again! Just remember

that every day it gets better, and soon you will be indistinguishable from

others, at least with your clothes on.

All the best, Joan

________________________________

From: Marie Salanoa <dreamingjeanie@...>

Joint Replacement

Sent: Mon, April 18, 2011 12:17:45 AM

Subject: Re: new here

Surgery for second knee is scheduled for April 19th this Tuesday! First knee

was done Dec 7th 2010. Would appreciate you're thoughts and or prayers as I am

nervous this time. Thanks!

Sent from my MetroPCS Wireless Phone

" maryanne.waspe1@... " <maryanne.waspe1@...> wrote:

>It is harder because its very difficult to get dressed, showered ,wash your

>hair etc.

>I have had one knee done, and Jeff has had both done, and we both think its

>much

>More of a challenge.

> Sleeping is difficult as you can't sleep on either side to begin with.,

>I also think PT is a bit harder as your arms have a huge range of movement

>in them, and you really need to get it back

>I have just remembered also that Jeff and I have reverse shoulders, but my

>recent one which was done 2 months ago was a straight forward revision.

>If you have had your knees done you will be fine.

>Yours might also be more complex in that you have a fracture. Is it a

>straight forward shoulder you are having or a reverse? Are your tendons

>intact?

>hope this helps you when is your surgery ?

>

>mary

>-- Re: new here

>

>

> hi mary, i guess i just want support and encourgment it's been 5 years

>since my knees and people act like this is worse. thanks, jennifer

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 4/18/2011 8:25:53 A.M. Central Daylight Time,

zinsdad@... writes:

hi jeff, i found out that i did have a reverse sr, and i'm trying to

use the ice as much as possible, thank you, jennifer

Hi ,

As wrote, I recently had a reverse shoulder replacement and have had

one

tkr (not 2 ). The best advise I can give you for your shoulder is to

be

conservative and don't try and do too much using that arm. The rehab is

going to

be longer and more difficult (my opinion) then the knee. You should be

taking

your pain meds and using ice frequently on the shoulder.

Getting dressed is definitely one of the hardest thing to manage. If you

did ok

with your knees you should be ok, just realize it's a slower recovery than

the

knees were.

If there is any specific questions I'd be happy to try and help.

Good luck,

Jeff

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

As wrote, I recently had a reverse shoulder replacement and have had one

tkr (not 2 ). The best advise I can give you for your shoulder is to be

conservative and don't try and do too much using that arm. The rehab is going to

be longer and more difficult (my opinion) then the knee. You should be taking

your pain meds and using ice frequently on the shoulder.

Getting dressed is definitely one of the hardest thing to manage. If you did ok

with your knees you should be ok, just realize it's a slower recovery than the

knees were.

If there is any specific questions I'd be happy to try and help.

Good luck,

Jeff

________________________________

From: " Critrkrazy@... " <Critrkrazy@...>

Joint Replacement

Sent: Sun, April 17, 2011 7:22:30 AM

Subject: new here

i'm typing one handed, on 4/11 i got bucked off a horse and broke the ball 

off my shoulder and had to have a total shoulder replacement.  does anyone 

have any advice.  i've had 2 knees done already.    jennifer

[Guest guest]

Thank you Sharon! Guess I was calmer last time when we did our first knee

together Dec 7th. This time it's hard to go from fairly low pain (even though

both knees were bone on bone) to the surgery pain. It's weird how the second

knee is not as painful going into it. I will be here Sharon, when the timing is

right for your other knee. Blessing to you as always love and prayers!

Sent from my MetroPCS Wireless Phone

Sharon LeVine <levine@...> wrote:

>surgery partner you will do just as good wish I was joining you this round

also but seems this cancer got in the way. I wish you good luck and anyone else

having surgery it's worth it for sure. Maybe next year I will get my other one

done after the chemo but for now you all take care and do your PT.

>Sharon LeVine

> Re: new here

> >

> >

> > hi mary, i guess i just want support and encourgment it's been 5 years

> >since my knees and people act like this is worse. thanks, jennifer

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Jeff, if you are so inclined will you explain the difference in a shoulder

replacement

and a reverse shoulder replacement? BARB in Florida

Re: new here

In a message dated 4/18/2011 8:25:53 A.M. Central Daylight Time,

zinsdad@... writes:

hi jeff, i found out that i did have a reverse sr, and i'm trying to

use the ice as much as possible, thank you, jennifer

Hi ,

As wrote, I recently had a reverse shoulder replacement and have had

one

tkr (not 2 ). The best advise I can give you for your shoulder is to

be

conservative and don't try and do too much using that arm. The rehab is

going to

be longer and more difficult (my opinion) then the knee. You should be

taking

your pain meds and using ice frequently on the shoulder.

Getting dressed is definitely one of the hardest thing to manage. If you

did ok

with your knees you should be ok, just realize it's a slower recovery than

the

knees were.

If there is any specific questions I'd be happy to try and help.

Good luck,

Jeff

[Guest guest]

well now you know what's going to happen before it was all unknown and then you

had all the pain so you have a right to be a little off this time. You might not

even have the extra pain this time. My knee is the same way but I think the

steroids from the chemo is keeping my in check it's funny how you wobble from

side to side and now you don't I think that might be worse on you and we thought

it was better at the time. I know I need new shoes cause of the bowing out the

shoe just don't feel right now lol. You will be fine up and going good in a few

months. PT turned me lose a week ago said I was doing as good as I was going to

get with the knee I can ride a bike ok well the thing they bring in. Said when I

get weak from the chemo they will come back in and get me up I think I need it

cause I haven't done one exercise but spending three days in bed each week don't

leave me much time to do them lol.

Sharon LeVine

Re: new here

> >

> >

> > hi mary, i guess i just want support and encourgment it's been 5 years

> >since my knees and people act like this is worse. thanks, jennifer

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Wow I never had that restriction with the first replacement or the revision

10 yrs later (wore out the plastic liner). I heave ho 35-50 pd bags of dog

food daily, and think nothing of picking up one of the furkids who are

35-60 pds. Be sure to ask your Surgeon if you will be under that

restriction and why. Only he knows for certain!

TACHANKA SIBERIANS

" All Four Paws Rolling "

wenatchee, wa

I'm scheduled to get a new right hip installed on May 16. I've read a lot

of old posts and gotten lots of good information. One thing I don't think

I've seen addressed is weight restrictions. My surgeon gave me a nice book

about joint replacements and one of the recommendations was not to lift

more than 20 pounds for the rest of my life. Well, how the heck am I going

to be able to pick up my grandkids? I'm talking toddlers here, not 10 year

olds, but still, there's a lot of things I need to do that weigh more than

20 lbs. Have any of you been given that advice