Locking/Painful TKR (sometimes)

Hi everyone,

The short verion: I have systemic lupus. I had my first knee surgery when I was young followed by many others. My TKR was "lucky #8". Really feel lucky - what a difference it makes in my life!! I even have 127 degree bend :) I'm mid-40 now (6 years post surgery).

About 4 weeks ago, out of no-where my knee locked. I saw stars!!  Was able to get it back in place (or unlock it) then the pain went away and I was fine. Unfortunately, it keeps happening sever times a day. I saw the doctor. He put me in a bledsoe brace to keep it imbolized but I can unlock the hinge for P/T. If it doesn't get better, I may need the hinge? bar? replaced. He says this is extremely rare but i'm hoping to find someone else who has/had this or knows of someone who has. Any comments? Thoughts? Suggestions?

Thank you for your consideration and any help you may offer.  

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Locking is very uncommon after an uneventful 6 yrs post surgery.

The main long term problem of joint replacements is loosening. The other common complication is blood clots in the legs. The most serious complication is of course infection. Get yourself checked by your primary orthopedic surgeon, go for X-rays on present date and get the problem diagnosed.

Give some rest by following the above procedure by wearing the brace followed by physiotherapy.

Take care!