Leg Crossing & A TKR

Something interesting happened the other day that I wanted to share since I’m sure other tkr patients are going through the same thing. Here goes:

For months after my tkr, I could not lift my bionic leg and cross it over my other leg. First, my muscles were not strong enough to lift my leg. Developing my leg muscles was my main concern during recuperation and physical therapy. Then, at about 3-6 months after my surgery, the pain was too intense for me to comfortably sit crossed legged. I could lift my leg but not easily cross it over my other leg. It was a complete struggle.

Now, I am 17 months post tkr. I saw down today and without thinking, crossed my tkr leg over my other leg. Then, it dawned on me…no pain, increased flexibility, and an effortless movement. Wow. It took me off guard. It was a nice kind of surprise, for sure.

I remember at my five months post tkr seeing someone cross their legs at the ankles. She had a bilateral total knee replacement a couple years prior. When I saw that, I was very impressed. I couldn’t come close to doing that. (That movement is what caused my knee to originally “lock up” prior to my surgery). I asked her what time period went by before she could make that movement. She didn’t remember. I’m not going to be like that since I don’t want to take any movements involving my tkr for granted. So, I’m sharing the news here.

We all know the immense pain, frustration, and hard work involved in recuperating from a tkr. Let’s not take anything for granted.

Hope this has helped someone. It does get better, honest!

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