injury and motivation

kam502

Hi,

I introduced myself on the newbie board the other day. I would like suggestions or feedback for a problem that mixes pain and motivation. I have had both knees replaced in the last 10 months. My left one was just replaced June 28. I am in constant pain from the knee surgeries.I know this sounds cheesy but I have a low pain tolerance. My right knee which was operated on in September is still quite painful. I have been told that the pain in the right knee will lessen if I exercise more. Overall I feel crummy from the knee replacements and generally being out of shape. I know if I exercise In will eel better but I don't feel well enough to exercise! I have promised myself that tomorrow I will swim at the YMCA. How do people motivate themselves to do something that adds to their pain in the short term even though you know it will be good for you in the long run? By the way, I am 54, used to always be on the go and weigh 210 lbs.

LoosingMyLast15

have you talked with your doctor about physical therapy. it might make sense to help you get back into the swing of things. i had my acl replaced (right knee) years ago (i'm 40) and every now and then my knee bothers me. now my left knee is starting to bother me and i run. i push through it until i can't any longer then i go back to my old physical therapy exercises. i'm constantly doing legs lifts and things like that to help strengthen my knees. i would first start with a physical therapist and go from there. oh swimming in great when you have bad knees and so is the elliptical. over time you'll get used to having the discomfort and it will get better.

TArnold2012

I have bone spurs on both heels and I totally understand walking in pain. I also have a bum left knee and a bad right ankle. Today was the beginning of my third week of walking. Each day is a battle but I know if I don't I am going to be the one that pays a higher price in the long run. I don't know that I will ever "like" exercise or walking. Staying mobile relies on exercise so each day I remind myself of that. I started slow but each day I push just a little bit farther.

Start slow and build slowly.

eyouse

I agree with an earlier post re: trying physical therapy. Ask your doctor if you can get a referral and that way insurance is more likely to help pay for PT (depending on your state and insurance plan). It's Important to find fun and non painful activities you enjoy and will keep going back to; better to consult the experts to keep from causing further damage and work what'cha got!

Pebble321

Yup, physio is a good idea, though they will probably hurt you more.... but I'm sure it is for long term gain!

And maybe look around (or ask your physio or doc) for classes that sound like fun - could you be doing yoga (a good teacher will work around your knee issues), or aqua-robics or a low impact class at your local pool or gym?

In general, I find that just scheduling exercise in and treating it like an appointment works best for me. I exercise first thing in the morning, then I don't have time during the day to change my mind. And I have all my workout gear ready before I go to bed so I get into my exercise clothes as soon as I wake up - then I'm ready to go even if I don't want to!

And maybe set a realistic goal for yourself - you don't have to swim for 1 hour the first time you go. Make it 10 mins exercise and 20 mins floating around and relaxing the first time - then increase the moving intervals each time.

kgeer31

I have an unrepaired torn Rt ACL from 10+years ago (basketball in college), bkaer's cyst in same knee and OA in Lt ankle. Oddly enough, swimming really bothers my knee. Water walking with ot withour weights is great, though. I, too, always go back to physical therapy (why I don't just do it every day I don't know!) when I get overtrained or the weather kicks up my joints. VERY important to stretch. Slightly concerning, though, is your pain. You might want to talk with your surgeon/ortho doc about a possible loosening. I work in Radiology and can't tell you how many times I see that as the culprit. It doesn't always take much. Good luck!
p.s. aqua zumba is great!