Suffering an injury can be a life-altering event, leading to pain, frustration, and difficult decisions about your health. My personal experience with a severe knee injury and subsequent surgery highlights the critical importance of thorough investigation and informed consent before undergoing any surgical procedure.

The Onset of Pain and Initial Diagnosis

My ordeal began with an injury that left me in excruciating pain. My initial visit to the doctor resulted in a diagnosis of a sprain, and I was fitted with a brace and sent home. However, a month later, the pain persisted, and I was still struggling. My persistence led to a new appointment, and after a lengthy wait for an MRI, the severity of my injury was finally revealed. The results indicated that surgery was necessary.

The Decision for an Epidural and an Awake Surgery

Given my adverse reaction to anesthesia in the past, I was deeply concerned about undergoing general anesthesia again. I expressed my desire to remain awake during the procedure, and to my surprise, the anesthesiologist agreed to administer an epidural. This decision led to a unique and somewhat unsettling surgical experience. The surgeon, unaccustomed to having an awake and questioning patient, expressed his discomfort. I, on the other hand, was determined to understand every step of the process, even watching the monitor to see what was happening.

The Harsh Reality of My Knee

During the surgery, the surgeon's candid assessment was that I had "one pissed off knee." It became clear that my injuries were extensive, including a crushed kneecap and torn ACL and meniscus. The surgeon removed a significant portion of my meniscus, a decision I now question given the potential long-term repercussions, but at the time, I was focused on getting through the immediate procedure. The surgeon’s communication during the operation was, to me funny! He inquired about my status from the anesthesiologist who, with a nervous laugh, revealed that my heart rate had disappeared Fortunately, my ability to talk had them both laughing that I was in fact, ok! As it turns out one of the leads fell off! it was reattached, and they could in fact see, that I did indeed have a heartbeat! I spent about an hour in recovery, because I was not put under, I did not have to stay long after the surgery. I was released with pain meds and told I should be walking in a week.

A week came and went, I could not walk at all. Weight-bearing sent searing pain up through my thigh like someone was sticking an ice pick in the end of my bone. In my Follow-up appointment after surgery, the doctor insisted that I could walk and that it was all in my head. Now I was getting pissed! He did send me to physical therapy, which was torture! They said I needed water therapy, so into the heated pool I went; still, it did not help. By this time, months had passed. I was not sleeping due to waking up in excruciating pain. There were nights I had to crawl to the bathroom on my belly because I just could not put any weight on my leg. This came to a head when we were out hunting, and a friend stayed in the RV with us. He said he got no sleep because I would cry out in pain all night. Back to the ortho, he sent me back to physical therapy, and they sent me to some guy to make a special brace for me. It was the only way to align my bones so I could walk at all. Meanwhile, still terrible pain, no sleeping, grumpy. I had no balance at all and became very good at rolling when my knee would buckle and I would fall.

Dr's decision was I needed both knees fully replaced

 After a couple of visits and thinking hard on it, I could not in my spirit say yes. People scolded me, told me I was being stubborn and stupid, but I stuck to my guns. On my next visit, I told the doctor I had decided not to do surgery but to try some other things. He asked what; I said some holistic things. He actually laughed at me, and his exact words were, "that stuff is all a bunch of phooey." As I was putting my brace back on, he said, "you will never walk unless you have surgery." I reminded him that he was the one telling me it was all in my head. As I was gathering my cane, he said, "you will be back," and he walked out of the room. I left, never to return!

I did not walk without my brace and cane for 2.5 years. I tried EVERYTHING under the sun and the moon. A few things did help a bit, but now I had arthritis and inflammation fueling the arthritis. I knew in my spirit I would find something to help me. Outwardly I was gimpy, in pain, bones snapping when I stood up (hubby hates that sound). I am not going to lie, it changed everything in my life! I could no longer kneel on my knees; standing was impossible; I had to sit or walk. Getting pants on and off, cleaning, working in my garden all became chores that took 10x longer than it should.

A Miracle Dropped Into My Lap (or Should I Say, Onto My Knees?)

After years of pain, limited mobility, and dismissed concerns, I was at a point where I felt I had exhausted all conventional avenues. The idea of more surgery, especially after my previous experience, was not something I could reconcile. I had been told my only option was to have both knees replaced, a decision that felt deeply wrong to me. Despite the opinions of others and the dismissive attitude of my doctor, I trusted my intuition. I was searching for something, anything, that could help me reclaim my life, and I knew deep down that the answer wasn't necessarily in a surgeon's scalpel.

One day I got a phone call from a friend. She asked if I would sit in on a call and evaluate a product from Europe for her. I said sure! So that night, I sat in with about 6 others and learned about these all natural, organic products that would eventually change my life!

Staying steadfast in my beliefs yet open minded that there is always more than one way thru things, is what got me thru all the pressure of people attempting to persuade me that surgery was the only way. My Hubby was 100% behind any decision I made for me. He always and still does support me.

Sure, Millions of people have "replacement" surgeries every year. Are you aware that many of those folks end up with complications? resulting in yet more surgeries? Pain, and complications over and over again?

Here are just some of the reasons I chose FOR ME, to look at other routes:

Potential Cons and Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) are potential complications.
• Stiffness: The knee may become stiff after surgery, limiting range of motion.
• Implant Loosening or Wear: Over time, the artificial joint components can loosen or wear out, potentially requiring revision surgery.
• Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: Though rare, damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels can occur during surgery.
• Persistent Pain: Some patients may continue to experience pain even after a successful surgery.
• Anesthesia Risks: General anesthesia carries its own set of risks, including adverse reactions and complications.
• Meniscus Removal Repercussions: As I experienced, significant removal of the meniscus can lead to long-term instability and pain, as it plays a crucial role in knee joint health and shock absorption.

The Importance of Investigation and Informed Consent

My experience underscores the absolute necessity of diligent investigation before agreeing to any surgical procedure.

• Seek Second Opinions: Do not hesitate to get a second, or even a third, opinion from different orthopedic surgeons.
• Ask Questions: Be an active participant in your healthcare. Ask your surgeon detailed questions about the procedure, the expected outcomes, potential complications, and alternative treatments. Understand the risks associated with each step.
• Understand the Entire Surgical Plan: Ensure you comprehend the full scope of the surgery, including what specific structures will be repaired, removed, or replaced, and the long-term implications of these actions.
• Discuss Anesthesia Options: Have an open conversation with your anesthesia provider about your concerns and explore all available options for pain management and sedation.
• Research Your Surgeon: Look into your surgeon's experience and success rates with the specific procedure you are considering.
• Understand Post-Operative Expectations: Get a clear picture of the recovery process, including timelines for pain management, physical therapy, and return to normal activities. Do not settle for vague promises.

My journey was challenging, and the initial lack of thorough investigation led to unforeseen complications. By being informed, asking critical questions, and thoroughly investigating your options, you can empower yourself to make the best decisions for your health and well-being.

Your Body Your Choice.....
For some, a knee replacement might be the path forward. For others, it may not be the solution. The crucial takeaway here is that you always hold the power of choice! Never allow a doctor or anyone else to pressure you into a decision that doesn't feel right for you. Take the time to thoroughly investigate and educate yourself on all the potential pros and cons.

A Decade of Confidence
Even now, ten years later, I have no regrets about the path I chose. While I won't be running marathons (nor do I desire to!), my balance has returned, and my stability is restored. I cannot kneel on my knees, but I also can't be certain that surgery would have enabled me to do so. I sleep soundly and function 95% of the time without a cane. Remarkably, I am not on any medications. I rely on holistic, whole-food lozenges for my well-being and couldn't be happier with my current state.

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