Category: Here’s to Health

Brace yourself. I’m going to tell the truth about total knee replacement and pain. I’m not going to pull any punches. I’m going to be frank and honest. It was a grueling bitch. But first, let me say: I’m five months out from surgery and I spent last Saturday night dancing for three hours at…

I reported to Mayo Clinic’s Methodist Hospital early the morning of May 7 for total knee replacement surgery. I was prepared, both physically and psychologically. Physically, all I had to do was shower using an iodine soap that I’d been given during my pre-op appointments. I had not eaten since the evening before. I really…

On March 7, I consulted Dr. Robert Trousdale regarding my knee. Dr. Trousdale is a physician in the Mayo Clinic Department of Orthopedics Surgery. He read my x-rays, examined my knee, and offered a straightforward evaluation of my options. I was, in his perspective, a candidate for total knee replacement. Imaging of my knee coupled…

Total knee replacement involves the cutting or grinding away of the degenerative bone and cartilage from the bottom end of one’s thigh bone, knee cap, and the top end of the shin bone. The damaged bone is replaced by artificial joint made up of metal alloys, high grade plastics and polymers. The surgical team makes…

I’m four months out from my total left knee replacement. Now, I’m happy about my new knee. I couldn’t have said that just a few short weeks ago. It’s no easy undertaking. It’s been a process of years, but the changes and improvements are developing quickly now. Initially, I fostered denial that I was actually…