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My sister-in-law just had a total knee replacement on her left knee (Stryker Triathlon model). She has been around 3 days with her new knee and PTs are very impressed with her recovery. She has full extension on her knee and about 70 degrees flexion as of yesterday. Everything is coming along well and she is making more progress daily.

Given this information, what types of shoes do the experts on this forum typically recommend for people to wear post TKR?

 

First question,
Has the surgery resulted in a LLD? has this been assessed?

The knee had to be replaced, she carried the injury for sometime? you would think this would result in some other issue also, that might need to be looked at.

The shoe should be a nice stable lace up, wide heel and firm counter to be sure the client is stable, the back line of the heel doesnt need to be one that extends to far backwards and not too much heel pitch.

3 days out is sounding good but due to the relationship, l would think about sending her to your best selection out side your store or at least one of your staff do the job, it is family that we want to help, but are often best not to help;)

 

A lot depends on alignment, just as it did before the replacement. Medial wedging for valgus tibia etc. If alignment is good then shoe will be less important than rehab for a good outcome.

 

I appreciate the responses thus far. I have asked about post surgical LLD, but haven't gotten a clear answer yet from my brother. She was a very active tennis player, but she also has wide hips. My wife was wondering if her "Q" angle could have exacerbated her knee pain, arthritis, and subsequent knee replacement.

I came across this article today which exactly describes the progression of knee pain for my sister-in-law. http://www.bizymoms.com/expert-advi...s-Q-Angle-Affect-Knee-Pain-and-Arthritis/3408

She's doing great, but I want to get her referred to a specialist as soon as she is recovered from this procedure. As always, please keep the comments coming.

 

I agree with this.
LLD is not usually an issue unless there is a gross difference. Remember that many of us have a LLD without having had surgery.

 

As Eric said if alignment is good then rehab most important and I would add weight of the shoe to begin with, due to muscle wastage and getting used to the new knee I would start with a lighter shoe ( then get heavier if that's what the patient wants.)

 

I appreciate your concerns, but 3 days post op is a little early to be thinking about postings ... etc., as there will still be a lot of swelling for a few weeks yet. Which is probably why you haven't received a definitive answer from orthopods.

As suggested further up this thread, a well fitting, supportive shoe is the best advice ... IMHO, that is.

:santa: