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Online now: 2 members: TABLE SETTER 11, mello24; 66 anonymousDiscussion: Playing after knee replacement?
| Posted | Discussion |
| Nov. 10, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Playing after knee replacement? I've scheduled a knee replacement (Zimmer Next-Gen) and would like to hear from others who have played or tried to play after this procedure. Most orthopaedic surgeons don't recommend it, but it's hard to give up. |
| Nov. 10, 2013 B.K. 49 posts | Got one in march. The legion knee from smith and nephew. Played a little in Reno 3 months later. And a few other tourneys. It's been 8 months and its feeling really good. My surgeon has given me limitations except jumping off a roof. Mine is supposto last 30 years. Check out the legion. Call me if u like to talk about it. 831-345-8816. |
| Nov. 10, 2013 B.K. 49 posts | I meant no limitations. |
| Nov. 10, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Thanks B.K. My surgeon said playing would be all right, but recommended that I not play the outfield (my position) due to the pivoting and running. The Smith and Nephew seems to be a good option that might require a little more surgical work to "personalize" it. Regards, Mel |
| Nov. 10, 2013 mnmasters38 Men's 60 19 posts | I had both replaced in 2012. 1st on Oct 23rd the 2nd on Dec 4th. Started playing dome ball in March, just hitting no running. Started running bases in April. Both knees have responded great. My surgeon said I had no limitations, knees good for 30+ years. He also told me that it would take at least 1yr to fully recover. I basically had to learn to walk, run all over again. I believe there are three thing that effects the success of these surgery's 1st your surgeon, yourself, you have to have the mind set and commitment to rehabbing, also when you have questions about different things going on with your knee during rehab talk so people who have had this and been through it, and last your body, how does it react to this, it is put through a lot of trauma during this surgery. you can call me also, I'd be happy to share any information that may help your recover and get you back on the field. 612-747-9315 best of luck |
| Nov. 10, 2013 B.K. 49 posts | I really didn't require more surgical work. They gave me MRI on hips, ankles, and knee before surgery to make custom pieces that would make sure everything lined up. In fact my surgeon in s.f. Bay Area liked the legion because he thought it was less invasive surgery and faster healing. It also matters how good of shape and how strong you are before surgery. And of course do the p.t. |
| Nov. 10, 2013 lewis 49 posts | Lemons, just had both of mine replaced with the zimmer ones, doctor told me I could play softball again but I would never be a (runner) which I was not built for any way. No limitions on the softball what so ever. I'm already able to walk without my walker and I start out patien p.t. neek week. |
| Nov. 10, 2013 lewis 49 posts | Sorry, had mine done on the 23rd of october. |
| Nov. 11, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Thanks for all of the information. I'm anxious to get this done, start the rehab, and see where it takes me. I appreciate your input which has served as encouragement. Mel |
| Nov. 11, 2013 mnball 29 posts | Lemons, I had both of my knees replaced with partial replacements on 11/1/10 so I just celebrated my 3rd year with the new knees. I had so many knee operations from baseball and hockey that I had no choice but to do the partial replacements. I play pick up hockey 3 times per week and I can skate better than ever because I am gliding and not running. I now have played 3rd base for the 3rd year instead of playing my normal left center. I do however still get out to the outfield, I can still run very well and I have only suffered very mild pain after a long weekend of ball. I turn 50 in 2014 and will be playing with The MN Merchants 50 Major team - playing left center and looking forward to finally being able to hit the senior bats. PS - The entire key to being ready to go after a partial/full knee replacement is how you rehab. Do it once and do it right and you will see the benefits of this particular surgery. Good luck. |
| Nov. 12, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Lewis-how does it feel knowing you will be able to run some again? How is it going so far?? |
| Nov. 12, 2013 lewis 49 posts | webster it going very good, start my out patient rehab today however I'm already able to walk a far distance without my walker already. and I was released a week early from my in patient rehab. Shooting for April or May to start playing again. Louie |
| Nov. 18, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Well, gentlemen, I just found out I am joining the ranks of the 'total knee replacement' ranks. After my MRI that showed that I have been playing without an ACL, which apparently had dissolved totally, and that the tilt in my knee was too bad for an easy fix, he then gave me my options. Osteotomy, Osteotomy plus ACL replacement (2 separate surgeries 3 months apart), or Total Replacement. Of course the surgeon is telling me I shouldn't play at my level after this replacement, but I have made a career out of doing things they said not to. He uses Stryker replacements. Anybody know the comparison between Smith and Nephew and Stryker? |
| Nov. 19, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Webbie25, Most orthopaedic surgeons don't recommend playing after total replacement. Some say it's OK to play "low-impact" positions......they don't understand senior softball....and a few say you can do anything but jump off a roof. From all the information I've gathered, it's an individual thing. I intend to play. Add Zimmer knees to your comparison list, since they are highly recommended also. Best wishes in your surgery, don't forget to rehab, and I hope to see you back on the field. Mel |
| Nov. 19, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Hi Mel-thanks-I am also anxious to get this done-want to be back by Dalton if possible. Anybody who knows me knows I will probably be riding my bicycle the day after surgery--or at least ASAP. I figure at least some of the recommendations not to play have to do with covering their butts if something does happen-they can say they advised me not to play. I get it. But I also cannot imagine not playing yet, either. I've only played slow pitch for 45 years-takes 50 for a good career!! |
| Nov. 19, 2013 StevenL.Imlay Men's 60 174 posts | Webbie Good luck with the knee replacement and look forward to seeing you back on the softball field hitting your normal impressive long Home Runs!!! SLi |
| Nov. 19, 2013 lewis 49 posts | Webster, who's your doctor? I'm thinking someone from Lovelace because of Patti. See if he can use the knee replacement you like if it is different from the one they normally supply. I'm going back to work Monday 33 days after my surgery. I'm moving up my time line to get back on the field to Febuary or March.The time has really gone by fast! Say hello to Patti for me. Louie |
| Nov. 19, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Hi Webbie, A friend of mine had an osteotomy on one knee and had the other replaced. He says the replaced one is much better. If Steve is impressed with your long ball, you must hit pretty well. When could you get in for the replacement? My first opportunity is Feb. 18, and I took it and got on the list in case someone cancels before that. Best wishes, Mel |
| Nov. 19, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Lewis-Dr. Altman-he works with Chesnut who did my first 2 surgeries, including my ACL replacement arthroscopically in 1990-one of the first to do it that way. I did not realize he had given me a dissolving cadaver ACL-LOL. Am checking on types of replacements. Mel-I gave Steve a pair of those sunglasses that make things look farther away so hits look longer-he is way generous with praise! The Osteotomy just didn't appeal too much. I am trying to get it scheduled now-will let you know. Goodluck on yours!! Web |
| Nov. 19, 2013 PattyMac 90 posts | Webbie, Just had arthropic surgery on my right knee last week. Rehab going good. Good luck with your replacement. Hope to see you soon or at least Dalton. Tore my achilles tendon in 2 places 10 years ago and doctor told me i would always walk with a limp and definitely no running. Keep your head up, God makes those decisions for us not doctors. PattyMac |
| Nov. 19, 2013 J R 251 posts | Had partial on both knees one in 2010 ? Had 2nd year ago today. 2nd one I had with new procedure called Robotic . Surgery in am went home same day no swelling. Google robotic knee replacement. I will be 70 Thursday. Playing 4 days a week.1st in years no pain. |
| Nov. 19, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Just talked to scheduling and got either Jan 2 or 16-second if Dr. opens it up to surgeries. Not bad at all-may shoot for Reno now. PattyMac-thanks for the shout out-good luck with your rehab-if anyone can come back from achilles it would be you-wow. God had blessed me in so many ways to play this game for 45 years, so what happens, happens. But I believe I will be back and giving it all soon now. My Dr. is going to check the S&N legion and see what he thinks, too. Thanks for all the input about this. They told me I'd be in the hospital for 4 days-seriously-we'll see about that one. |
| Nov. 20, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Webbie, Great news that you'll be able to have this done so soon! My Dr told me 2 days in the hospital......I think it depends on the patient (us) and I'm sure we'll be chomping at the bit to get home and begin rehab. Stay positive, Mel |
| Nov. 20, 2013 lewis 49 posts | Webster I have some information for you for some thing you can before and after your surgery to speed things along call me Louie |
| Nov. 21, 2013 Mr. Manassas 244 posts | Webbie...I have had both knees replaced and play at a competitive level for superior Softball . Rehab is very important and I also worked in the pool doing softball motion drills.....Ray Ray also has had both knees replaced and he is running faster than he did when he was younger...We are both pitchers. |
| Nov. 21, 2013 db14 104 posts | Webbie...hoping for a speedy recovery for you. ...Sure you'll be back at it in no time. DB 14 first base Timberworks |
| Nov. 21, 2013 Chief144 Men's 70 160 posts | I had my right knee replaced on July 22nd, 4 months ago tomorrow. Surgery went well. spent 1 1/2 days in hospital. woke up with motion machine bending my knee, used it for the 1st 3 wks. Started PT 1 week after surgery. By the way I lost 25 lbs before surgery, 225 - 200 which helps take a great deal of pressure off the knee! Went right to 105ROM, then STOPPED! Had to go back under for a manipulation, put me under & the Dr bent the knee for me!! Put me back about 2 weeks, gave me a cortisone shot & I am now at 125+ ROM & gaining more each day. I have been riding my bike 5 miles + everyday, ellipical ea day. Went to batting practice 2 wks ago, 1st time up it was all arms! Then it became more natural and got some nice line drives.(My type of hits) PT is a must! Have to do ALL of the exercises at home if you want to improve. Plan to be on the field in early spring! Good luck with your surgery. Chief |
| Nov. 22, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Mr. Manassas-I know your play-wow-both of them. Ray Ray also. I would not have known.I want to get back in the outfield. I played some infield this year in 3 tournaments because of the pain but love playing the outfield. Having had 4 surgeries already, I do know the importance of the rehab. Thanks for the information. db14-also thanks. Enjoyed meeting you this year and hope to see you on the field for many years to come. Chief-good luck to you also. Many thanks! |
| Nov. 22, 2013 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | Webbie25, it's amazing you have been able to play at your level without an ACL. I'm sure the tendon didn't just disappear this past year when you moved to the infield. Looks like you are getting a lot of good advice. I, too, have played with a teammate who has total replacement on both knees and plays at a high level for his age (he's in late 70s). Only pain he has is when he slows down rapidly for a base. I'm sure you have realized that the recommendations that surgeons make on the different knee replacement options has a lot to do with what they are comfortable and confident in. If you decide a different device is better for you, you might want to go to a different surgeon who is experienced with that device. I admire your drive to keep playing. The doctor told me four years ago that my cartilage in my knee was almost gone and I would be playing in a lot of pain and with cortisone shots before the season was over. Didn't happen. Lost some weight, and I am often a rabbit on my team of younger guys. I do wear a light supportive brace on that knee, but I have for ten years. Keep aiming at 50 years of playing softball. I am entering my 62nd season next year and aiming for 70 years. It was playing hard court tennis for decades that likely wore out my knee, not playing on the softball fields. Good luck with your choice and may you be wonderfully successful in your healing. I'd love to see you play next year at Reno. |
| Nov. 22, 2013 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | Good luck with your surgery and rehab! My rehab is going well and should be back playing in Feb. |
| Nov. 22, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Omar-thanks for the response. 62-wow-amazing-hope you hit 70. Hope to see you in Reno. Bruce-glad to hear you are just about ready to go. I missed seeing your powerful swing!! Maybe we will see you in Reno or Dalton, if I make it. |
| Nov. 23, 2013 fever 11 posts | good luck with your knee replacement webbie.it will be great when we get ya back no matter when it is.take your time with your rehab.owens had both of his knees replaced and the improvement is amazing.look forward to seeing ya back in our outfield.vern fowler |
| Nov. 23, 2013 GI Men's 60 228 posts | Webbie, You could hit a home run off me in a chair I bet. I have enjoyed so much our back and forth over the years and look at it this way , you may still be faster than me. I am saving my speed for the 80's anyway my friend. We both have been very blessed and I look forward to seeing you in the future. Stay in touch and I will say a prayer for a good recovery. I am thankful for the time I have been able to spend on the field and time with you all over the years. Hey Webbie one of the kids at school asked me recently how do they cut my hair so neat to make it that you can see through it. Those kids gotta love them, It was a 1st grader. Have a safe Thanksgiving and a wonderful Christmas holiday. Hugs to all Gary Ingle |
| Nov. 23, 2013 fever 11 posts | patty mac and mr manassas,you guys are amazing.the way you guys play on the field,no one would ever know ya ever had any injuries.lookin forward to seeing you guys out there again in 2014.stay healthy.vern fowler |
| Nov. 24, 2013 Graphite 56 posts | BruceinGa ...... May I ask what surgery you had? |
| Nov. 25, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Vern-I don't want to miss watching you play-I don't believe I have ever seen a man give more on the field at all times.Thanks, I knew Steve had and he is getting stronger all the time. Gary-have to tell you, you have the best transparent hair around. Still looks good-both strands!! See you on the field next year! |
| Nov. 25, 2013 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | Graphite, I completely tore my ACL in June. I had ACL reconstruction surgery on Aug 9. |
| Dec. 9, 2013 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | To all those that have taken the time and cared enough to send well wishes on upcoming surgeries to all that are having them, including me, thanks! I got a huge break, a cancellation, and will now be going in this Thursday, Dec 12. Two of my ex-teammates that have had this done are doing well-"lewis" (Steve)had both knees done and is back to work! Can't wait to see your new speed!! John Reid-Coach-is doing well also after a partial. |
| Dec. 9, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Hi Webbie, Great news on your new schedule. I don't need to tell you what you already know about rehab so just know that I'm thinking of your surgeon on Thursday. Mel |
| Dec. 9, 2013 MurrayW Men's 65 221 posts | Good luck Webbie25. I had my right knee replaced 3 years and 2 days ago. I found this site helpful for rehabbing it. http://bonesmart.org/forum/view/knee-replacement-recovery-area.9/ Replacements are unlike other surgical rehabs. There is major trauma to your body in sawing, pounding, cutting bone, etc. You have to balance you desire to get back on the field with your body's need for rest to help the recovery. There is a fine balance between pushing too hard and letting your body rest to heal from this traumatic event. In this case you can't always go by the old adage of "no pain, no gain". Good luck! |
| Dec. 12, 2013 lemons Men's 65 323 posts | Webbie, Don't start the rehab until they have finished the surgery today......Best wishes, Mel |
| Dec. 12, 2013 Clean Up 68 posts | I know of a lot of people that had it done. Most didn't like the idea at first. But were glad they had it done afterward. |
| March 20, 2014 virginiasmith 1 posts | I have may knee surgery before 2 yeas and after that I worked harder and harder on squat, calves and hamstring area of my injured leg to build up strength and to continue with my sporting season ahead. http://www.amazon.com/Beating-Patellar-Tendonitis-Treatment-Pain-free/dp/1491049731 |
