Chapter 1: My Journey to Knee Replacement

Nearly three years ago, I underwent knee replacement surgery, a decision that led to significant realizations about life and perseverance.

Almost every lesson I learned came through moments of discomfort.

It was either late spring or early summer when I boarded a plane from Odessa, Texas, to El Paso. I was leaving Odessa to enlist in the Navy. In preparation, I followed the Scarsdale Diet to meet the Navy's weight requirements. At that time, I didn’t consider my troublesome knees.

During recruitment, we underwent various physical tests, and the duck-walk exercise almost sent me to the hospital. After pleading with the doctor not to disqualify me, I ultimately failed the physical. The Navy sent me back to Odessa on a bus. Fast forward forty years, I decided to follow my mother’s example; she had both knees replaced, first in the '60s and the last in the '90s.

In March or April of 2019, I had my right knee replaced, followed by my left knee in November. Although the surgeries were similar, the recovery experiences varied significantly.

After my first surgery, I found myself mostly inactive, avoiding walks and neglecting my exercises. Even though I attended physical therapy, I often ignored the homework assigned by my therapist. I was supposed to practice walking outdoors with my walker and perform specific exercises, but I didn’t commit to them as I should have.

As a result of my inaction, I extended my reliance on prescribed opioids and required additional physical therapy sessions. Seven months later, in December, I had the second surgery on my left knee.

Before the second procedure, I pledged that my approach would change. I began daily walks around my apartment complex with my walker. The recovery this time was notably different. I diligently performed my exercises multiple times a day and experienced significantly less pain. I didn’t need a refill of Oxycodone and avoided the extra six weeks of physical therapy.

For the past four years since the surgeries, I have relied on a cane. Recently, I realized that my dependence on it was not due to necessity but rather as a comfort object.

The Importance of Letting Go

Crutches, canes, and comfort zones can be beneficial if used correctly. However, I had clung to my cane for too long, negatively affecting my posture and prolonging my knee pain. Once I set the cane aside, I shifted my focus to improving my posture and relearning how to walk upright.

My posture has never been great, but I’m now committed to enhancing it. I walk more freely without the cane and have learned essential truths throughout this journey.

Chapter 2: Key Lessons Learned

1. Action is Essential for Improvement

   You cannot expect change in your life—be it through exercise, education, or career advancement—without taking action. After my initial surgery, my recovery was painful, and my wife struggled to care for me. If I had simply made an effort to move, we would have both had an easier time.

What I Wish I Knew About Total Knee Replacement with Dame Judi Dench

This video provides insights into preparing for knee replacement surgery, featuring reflections from Dame Judi Dench. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the procedure and recovery expectations.

2. Focus and Hard Work are Key

   Achieving your goals requires dedication and effort. I realized that my lack of effort after my first surgery directly impacted my recovery. In contrast, my commitment during the second surgery paid off with significantly better outcomes.

3. Letting Go of Comfort

   You must set aside whatever comfort aids you rely on, whether physical or emotional. Growth and improvement cannot occur if you remain dependent on them. Although comforting, these aids can lead to complacency. Stand tall, let go, and embrace the challenge of moving forward.

Final Thoughts:

Opting for crutches or canes is an easy way out, but you must choose: do you want to grow and reach your full potential, or do you prefer stagnation and despair?

Put down the cane—whatever that may represent for you—and live the life you were meant to lead.

If you enjoyed this narrative and find value in my writing, consider subscribing to my newsletter.

Best Range of Motion After Total Knee Replacement

This video discusses achieving optimal range of motion post-knee replacement, emphasizing the exercises and routines that can aid in recovery.