pain before a complete knee replacement

[grammmie1946]

My aunt who is 81 years old recently saw a surgeon who recommended a complete knee replacement for her right knee.  She is now walking with a walker because she recently fell while using a cane.  Her right knee is now knock kneed towards her left knee.  This seems to be causing her to walk on the inside of her foot, therefore, causing extreme ankle pain and a lot of foot and lower leg swelling.  An insert that was molded to fit her foot was prescribed.  She says that she cannot deal with her ankle pain (her ankle is very tender) in addition to her knee pain, so she has not worn the insert and has gone back to wearing flimsy bedroom shoes.  I told her that I thought she needed the support of a good athletic shoe with the insert, but she has refused so far.  She is also dealing with my uncle who has recently gone on insulin shots 3-4 times per day.  Is there anything besides the insert that will help with the ankle pain?  I think she has too much on her plate and her surgery is five weeks away.  Can you give me any suggestions?


This discussion is related to much pain 12 years after total knee replacement.

[spastic]

Hello there and Welcome, it does sound like she has a lot on her plate and maybe a bit stubborn?  Some tough love maybe needed here.  With her walking like that on the inside of her foot she is setting herself up for more problems.  I would insist on her wearing the insert and if she doesn't get her a wheelchair.  I know she probably won't like that idea but it might give her the incentive to wear the insert.  

I have a very stubborn aunt myself and sometimes me and my hubby have to go and give her some tough love.  She lives be herself, used to be a midwife back in the day and thinks she knows it all!  I love her to death and I worry about her constantly so I definately understand what you are going through with her.

Please keep us posted.

Your Friend,

Ada aka Spastic