I am an avid gardener. Dr. Parks performed a bilateral knee replacement on 2/14/19. He tempered my goal of a speedy recovery and said he tells all the gardeners he treats to expect to have some limitations. I am delighted to report that my recovery exceeded expectations.
There were many positive milestones along the way:
- Gave up the walker at 3 weeks
- Able to drive at 4 weeks
- Gave up the cane at 5 weeks
- Able to operate my 2 wheel Gravely tractor with attached rotary plow to till the garden at 7 weeks
- Able to push a loaded wheelbarrow uphill at 9 weeks
- Able to kneel, and more importantly, get back up with no assistance at 12 weeks
- Able to walk a half mile plus with no discomfort at 12 weeks
This must sound all too easy, but it was not. I went for outpatient physical therapy for 8 weeks and continued at home on my own. For many weeks there simply was no discomfort-free position for my legs. My activities often leave my leg muscles tired and sore. I can measure and feel the improvement and strengthening of my legs. I look forward to a complete recovery and many more years of my active life.
All by Physician