Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Little Help for Arthritis Find out the latest on what works and what doesn't. 9/11/08

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Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Little Help for Arthritis

Study finds common procedure may not help painful knees

By Brenda Goodman

9/11/08 Arthroscopic knee surgery, the most commonly performed orthopaedic procedure in the United States, may be no better than medical or physical therapy for relieving chronic pain, according to the results of two studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Researchers at the University of Western Ontario randomly assigned 178 people with moderate to severe osteoarthritis of the knee to either arthroscopic surgery, where the inside of the joint is cleaned and smoothed with the aid of a pencil-sized camera, or to a combination of medications, supplements and physical therapy. After two years, both groups reported nearly the same levels of pain, stiffness and disability.

In addition to cleaning and smoothing the inside of the knee, arthroscopic knee surgery is commonly performed to repair tears to a wedge of cartilage in the joint called the meniscus.

“What typically happens is that a doctor will get a patient with knee pain and give them an MRI [magnetic resonance imaging] scan, and they’ll find a meniscal tear,” said David T. Felson, MD, MPH, a rheumatologist with the Boston University School of Medicine.

But in a separate study in the same issue, Dr. Felson and his colleagues performed MRI scans on 991 people living in Framingham, Mass. They found that meniscal tears were common and often did not correspond to a patient’s pain. In fact, 61 percent of people who had meniscal tears in their knees reported that they had no pain, aching or stiffness during the previous month.

"I think this shows pretty persuasively that arthroscopy does not benefit osteoarthritis of the knee," Dr. Felson said.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, more than 650,000 arthroscopic lavage and debridement (cleaning and smoothing) procedures are performed for knee pain each year in the United States, at an average cost of $5,000 each.

"The joint becomes full of all kinds of junk – cartilage, degrading materials and little strands of stuff and tiny tears in the meniscus and shards of things that are sometimes attached to the tissue," Dr. Felson said. "And the thinking was that if you cleaned that up, it would help the pain," he added.

These studies were not the first to question knee surgery, arthritis and pain relief.

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walaa

31 Jan 2012, 12:19

Dear Dr,

I faced a small problem in my knee one week ago,MRI opinion said:

- Torn body and posterior Horn
- Trabecular injury of the medical femoral condyle
- Garde I injury of the medical collateral ligament
- Mild knee joint effusion

First Docotor said that I need an immediat operation (viewer)

Second Docotor said that no need for operation and Physiotherapy
solve the propblem

Please advise urgent in order to act accordingly.

Reply Forward

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Amanda

26 Jan 2012, 16:32

I had acl reconstruction surgery 7 months ago. I still cant bend my knee all the way. My normail leg can go all the way to my butt. My left leg is about 3/4 of the way there. Is this normal? And how long before Ill be able to bend it all the way?

Lynn Stine

05 Jan 2012, 18:11

I was involved in a head on collision about 4 months ago thanks to a drunk driver. I ended up with a tear in the medial menicutis and a partially torn ACL in my right knee. I have been in physical therapy the last month. There is some improvement, but it still not strong yet. I also have a minor ache all the time in the bad knee. Will the ache go away once the knee is a lot stronger? How long will it be before I can run? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

05 Jan 2012, 03:20

i have been having severe pains in my knee for about 3 years now. the problem is that it is not in the joint but at the side. i had an Arthroscopic knee surgery about 6 months ago but it still pains severely.i have been taking pain killers to calm it down but it doesn't help. the doctor told me the last time i went to him that my knee is going to hurt for the rest of my life. is there nothing i can do about it? what do i do? i need help because i am in great pain.

twoknees

03 Jan 2012, 11:20

Have had one arthrotomy and several scopes on knees in past 30 years, for loose bodies and later a torn meniscus. Since have developed mod-severe arthritis. Still working and on my feet, but no sports over these years. Not ready for 2 TKR but know this is in my future. Pain is manageable or even minimal most of time without medication.

Fortunately, after my first knee surgery, I was told by one kind orthopedist 30 yrs. ago to avoid stairs if at all possible to extend life of my knee(s); "Take the elevator if you have a choice." Ended up moving into a rancher which I am certain has bought me time.
Another helpful piece of advice which I have followed: Decrease inflammation by eating a healthy diet (more fruits & vegetables, less meat, no trans fats) which also helps to avoid weight gain. Even 10 lb. adds significant stress to joints.
Additionally, adding healthy oils to diet helps to lubricate joints and decrease inflammation significantly (omega 3 fatty acids, like salmon, sardines, or fish oi).

Best advise mentioned in posts is to get second (or third) opinion before ANY surgery.
Good luck to all

Ryan

31 Dec 2011, 05:03

I am a 31 year old male. I have had two arthroscopic surgeries, one on each knee. My right in 2009 for torn meniscus and the left in Sept. of 2011 for another torn meniscus. Since the surgery for the right knee, it felt better almost right away and still feels good to this day. Not quite like it did when I was 20 but hey, what does? However the left knee is a slightly different story so far. For the month after the surgery, it was feeling better and better each day/week. About three weeks ago I was vacuuming the floor and after I was done, I went to sit down. I felt immediate swelling and tightness however no pain that I considered moderate, etc. or anything like the pain prior to surgery. Called my OS and he did an exam and said I had fluid and may have "stirred" something up. Since then, the knee has gotten slightly worse so I called again and was prescribed Medrol Dose Pack for 6 days. It's been 10 or 11 days and nothing has changed. I do fear the worse, perhaps a smaller tear that is not causing pain, etc. so the next step(s) may be x-ray or lastly, another MRI and without insurance... very costly and can't afford it right now. However, I can say that both are better than they were previous to the surgeries by comparison. I just need to figure out what's going on with the left knee now.

cat

30 Dec 2011, 04:21

I had 1/3 of my meniscus removed and live in daily pain. After reading these posts I can sympathsize, however the 47 yo woman who hates all the whining doesn't get it and that disturbs me. She needs to get over Herself. Note : everyone is different because one heals one way has nothing to do with the way someone else recovers. Every body responds differently such as mine for ex. My Dr. thought for sure my outcome would be positive and now im facing knee replacement . One would think at 47 that one would know that no two people are ALIKE!

rick

28 Dec 2011, 17:10

hello, i just had orthoscopic surgery 1 week ago today. i had my knee cap and femur debribed of a lot of arthritis. after suffering for more than 6 years its finally done and i feel great.i only wish it had been done sooner. if i feel this good after only one week, i cant imagine how much better it will get. if your have already suffered what do you have to lose to at least try it.all the best to those who have had surgery or going to.

Linda

27 Dec 2011, 20:30

I had arthroscopic knee surgery ten years ago, when I was 60 years old. The surgery dealt with a small meniscal tear and was was completely successful. After a two month recovery period, I was able to return to my regimen of brisk walking, yoga, etc., with no knee pain. I spent last July hiking in the Alps with no pain whatsoever.

Before the surgery, my orthropedist had me spend four months trying conservative remedies, none of which helped at all. He also warned me that I could be disappointed if it turned out that my pain was substantially caused by arthritis. Because I was aware of my injury the moment it had happened, I guessed that the pain and swelling was most likely caused by the meniscal tear and chose to go ahead with the surgery. Happily, this was correct, although he did find some arthritis in the knee during the surgery.

I'm always perplexed by studies that find no benefit from this surgery. For me it was a life(style) saver.

Lee

09 Dec 2011, 05:55

I had arthroscopic surgery 11 months ago and regret it every day I awaken. I had a small piece of cartilage removed, and some release, shave procedure done to the outside of my knee. I'm a powerlifter who hurt my knee doing tae kwon do; I'm about 75% on some movements in the gym, others about 15%. Knee is now swelling, almost a year after. Get another opinion, or two, before having anything like this done. As a former track guy, I can't even run anymore...better off the way it was.

Paul

04 Dec 2011, 14:21

I had arthroscopic surgery on my right knee 5 weeks ago to repair a torn miniscus.i slipped at work on steel through no fault of my own and shattered my patella a year ago,after a year in pain i eventually got my operation and they found tears and also bad athritus,ive never suffered from this before but now my left knee hurts too with pain (athritus) and i am also getting pain in my hips,i dont know if this is normal,i 40 years old,was a very keen cyclist and never had knee problems before i was very fit,now im struggling to work as a welder ive been told i have to give up my 22 year career,i dont know anything else,i am gutted,i just cant bend down:( i had to put a claim in against my employer because they wouldnt pay me any wages,they saw the accident happen but they deny it ever happened in the shop,i am close to losing everything.

Matt

02 Dec 2011, 15:57

Don,

Prolotherapy can be perfomred by an osteopathic doctor and sometimes a naturopath. Prolo tightens up ligament laxity and often, when done correctly, improves osteoarthritis pain significantly. The pain in you joint is from surrounding tendon spasms attempting to support your joints.
Medications and surgeries provide little benefit.
Good luck,
Matt

Don

30 Nov 2011, 01:17

Hi I had Arthroscopic Knee Surgery three weeks ago ,but still in pain.I have had ten xrays 4 MRIs plus 100s of pain pills and injections on the 2 knee surgery. My injury was from a fall at work two years ago it has been the most painful and stressful time of my life.I thought the surgery would help but it didn't do a thing.then my doctor told me I can't return to my job of 17 years just don't know what to do I hope others do well god bless

terrilynn

27 Nov 2011, 16:17

You need to weigh your pain against the inherent risks in knee arthroscopy and also consider whether having the arthroscopy will possibly prevent you from having a more invasive knee replacement at a later date.
With no risk factors I thought my "simple knee arthroscopy" for osteoarthritis and a few other problems would be a snap. I followed all the orders, looked like a prime candidate and had an excellent surgeon. Everything was fine until I threw a pulmonary embolism to my heart two days post op, lost consciousness at home and was rushed by ambulance to the ER with very little pulse and hypotensive. I spent two days in intensive care on blood thinners and bled into my knee causing intense pain that barely responded to medication. I am home now giving myself Lovanox shots and trying to regulate my Coumadin blood thinners which I may be on for 6 months. I have to be careful all the time. I made my decision to have the surgery primarily to prevent further damage to the joint surfaces but I didn't fully consider the risks. Do your research; ask your ortho how he plans to address the prevention of blood clots. Good luck to you.

lis

26 Nov 2011, 08:15

I posted last week as to all the whining about meniscus scope. I am now 3 days post op. Never used crutches. MRI showed 1 tear. Dr found 2 tears,loose debris,something with the MCL and jaggged bone under my kneecap as mild degeneration was there. I will see the Dr. on Wed for my post op...1 week later. I go to my first physical therapy Monday. I have been icing like crazy. Elevating. Doing all the exercises on sheet given to me. Lots of bending the knee. It is tight and a bit swollen.Minimal pain.
Recovery all depends on the patient. You do nothing to help the recovery, you get nothing back. You need to move a rusty bolt to get it moving.
I am in so much less pain. I am not waking at night in pain. I get up and walk with no pain. Just need to heal up now. I am so glad I did this and am ready to run asap!!
I should mention I am a 47 year old fit female.

Renee

22 Nov 2011, 05:59

I am a 42 year old female. I had a fall from a ladder 19 months ago and had severe injury to my left knee. I literally tore every tendon and ligament in and around my knee. I also dislocated my patella as well as my tibbia. I went into surgery to make those repairs. Approximately 6 weeks later I was in surgery again because the original surgery failed and had to be done again. In Dec of 2010 I went in again for a ruptured patellar tendon and a fracture to tibbia where the screws ripped out when the tendon ruptured. There was no accident or injury to cause this rupture. My OS replaced the tendon with a cadaver graft. I have had continuous problems with the knee ever since. 3 weeks ago he went in with a scope and removed a very large area of scar tissue that was catching on my joint line and ripping everytime my knee would bend. We thought this fixed the problem until about a week ago I started having the same pain and swelling again. Today he injected my knee with an extremely painful shot of cortisone right into the area where the scar tissue was removed. He said the scar tissue is trying to form again. This is supposed to keep that from happening. Right now my knee is so painful I can barely stand to move it. It feels like bits of glass are inside my knee. I don't know at this point if it did more harm than good.

Tom Mordus

21 Nov 2011, 18:46

I had arthroscopic left knee surgery on Friday November 18,2011,surgery took about 45 minutes in which my doctor repaired my medial meniscus,removed loose carlitage floating around and scraped to remove arthritis smoothing out for new carlitage growth. I spent the next 2 days in bed as much as possible with ice packs. Today Monday 3 days after surgery I have no pain and am slowly working my way back into health. I do have stiffness and some pain to my ACL but that will be gone once I regain strength and stretch it out.I to was worried about surgery because I am professional firefighter, and I depend on my health and strength. Especially after reading all the comments here, but I must say it was the best decision I have made. I will be returning to work on Saturday November 26 th.I will not have missed a day of work because I did this on my vacation of 12 days. Good Luck to all. Highly recommend surgery. Haven't felt this pain free in years.

Kate

20 Nov 2011, 04:47

Hi Everyone,
No ned to be scared of procedure for arthroscopy on left knee.
I had it done 11 years ago and the knee could not be better still.
I was an elite athlete in my younger days and really worked the legs.It was when I was merely squatting to pick up a box that the knee finally went.
Pain was severe and it blew up instantly like a puffer fish ,I had not experienced pain like it. From wear and tear of all those years of heavy training it had enough.
I must say, after surgery I was doing Christmas shopping , 3 days later but the pain was nothing I had experienced in my life . It also took months of hard work walking and swimming to get the knee doing what it used to. 11 years later it is still okay and I am exercising , but not heavy pounding the knee as i was told not to.

To top it off , 5 years after knee arthroscopy my right hip went,I denied anything was wrong and kept telling myself it was just muscle pain, it became so bad after 18months I was not sleeping any more.
Finally I had 3 orthopoedic drs tell me it was mild arthritis and it was odd that I was complaining so much about the pain, it was unbearable and all three surgeons decided to give me a new hip.
I did not accept their diagnoses and how to solve the pain, so I went to the dr who operated on me 11 yrs prior on my knee, he ran some xrays again and said he is more than sure I have a labrum tear , which is the fleshy ligament like structure between socket area of the hip.
He said he is more than 99% sure he can fix it and I will not need hip replacement.

Once again I went into surgery and it is great. Okay the bit of cushioning he cleaned up will never grow back but I am as good as new, and no hip replacement. Lots of pain worse than knee pain after surgery and took a long time to get back to normal but persistence is the key and determination to use it again .
It pays to get many opinions too.

So never fear it does work but it takes time to heal and also to be very good again.

Meghna

16 Nov 2011, 10:53

Please dont have surgery unless absolutely necessary...I had it in 2009 and regret it since then...I am in constant pain.post surgery I had to cortisone shots in knee but nothing is helping.I regret not having any other doc's opinion too.

Maricely Acosta

08 Nov 2011, 21:16

Hey guys, My name's Mary Acosta; I am a 40 year old female. I had knee athroscopy done on my righ knee for a large meniscus tear on May 26, 2011; then I had another athroscopy of my left knee on July 8, 2011. Before the right knee athroscopy I could not even walk, or bend my right knee. About 3wks after the athroscopy I was able to walk, but w/pain. It's now been 6months since my right knee athroscopy, and 4months since the left athroscopy; I still can't squat, bend ride a bike run, or excercise like I use to. I must say however, I am grateful I am no longer in a wheel chair; but I can't enjoy life like I use to. I have read some of these comments, and hope in the near future there is some progress. I had no arthritis prior to the surgery, however my doctor claims the tear to my right knee was so severe. The right meniscus had a very large tear, and was flipped backwards; so bad they had to put it back into place. Shave off the large tear to the bleeding bone to create scar tissue, and HOPEFULLY mimic the meniscus. It's terrible :( I'm not only hearing impaired, now I have another disability. Hope my experience helps some of you out there. I had no choice, if I wanted to walk again, the only option was to get the bilateral athrocopies; if not I'd still be in a wheel chair. Best of luck everyone. Mary

lis

06 Nov 2011, 18:16

I have been beginning to wonder if only bad things that happen get posted or I am the only one that had a successful scope on my knee and have been running marathons and winning as well as 5ks. Times of 19:20s. I am 47 female. My husband had a scope also and was playing hockey 2wks later. I am on this site because I tore my other meniscus but its not as painful as my other knee was. I can run but will hurt later and sleep is awful. So I was just looking for hope as to how soon I can run when I get cleaned up when I get my scopoe and all I read is horrible stories. All I can say is I am nervous as I had my first scope 16 yrs ago and was younger but feel I am much healthier now. Motion and movement is key. I was walking around the house the next day without crutches. Was doing my exersices immediately and was riding my indoor bike within the 2nd week. There is a lot of whining going on here.

Thomas

05 Nov 2011, 17:06

I had my third left knee orthroscopy a month ago. OS found more meniscus damage, anterior issues and lateral meniscus damage. I also have osteoarthritis. Prior to surgery the OS gave me the three series Synvisc injections and I had a very severe reaction requiring draining over 60cc's. The recommendation for the third procedure was to "delay" knee replacement. I'm 59 and now really don't know what to expect next. Anyone out there in same situation?

faya

01 Nov 2011, 02:39

hi im 28 had athro donr 4 years ago on my left knee.. and now i hurt my right knee right in the botom of my knee cap. reading all these posts im vv scred to go for the surgery as some say that soon you will need full knee replacement others say they cannot bend it. i do alot of sports and i will die if i cannot continue or have theses problems. my orthopidic told me that i shoould have it dont and he will try and tear away sone of the bone i will need 6 weeks to recover before any sport? please help me with some advice ffzvonly@live.com

Peggy Brandt

27 Oct 2011, 15:04

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Peggy Brandt

Dianne

31 Aug 2011, 15:46

My orthopedist recommended arthroscopic surgery for a torn meniscus -- said blood supply in a 59 year old wasn't sufficient to heal the tear. Possible complications of surgery and anesthesia scared me off. I've used a heating pad to increase blood flow, worn a brace, walked with a cane to decrease the rolling gait/limp that was damaging my other knee, and got at least an hour of very light exercise every day (holding the hose to water flowers, but still standing and moving.) After three months of home remedies, my pain is almost gone and my knee function is up to about 85 percent of pre-injury status. Hope this helps. Also, Tylenol extended release provided more even pain relief than prescription analgesic.

ray (firedragon45)

17 Aug 2011, 09:19

I had my right patella removed in 1984, ( if you break a chicken bone) thats how my kneecap was. The Doctor i was under did not replace it with anything,( i dont know why ) but since then i have been on crutches and wear a splint to keep my leg straight. So i have been put most of my weight on my left leg i have been getting alot of pain in it for the last few years but im now under a hospital here in the uk and they are going to do keyhole surgery in a few weeks on my left kneecap but i dont think its going to do much for me. When i first went to harrogate district hospital the doctor told me he would give me total knee replacement but im now under a new doctor and he said he onlygoing to do keyhole and clean out. So i cant understand why i know he said i dont need it replaceing but he said i still maybe in pain after the miner operation because of my right knee. So i dont know what to do any ideas ? also why is it to late ( 27 years ) to put a titanium total knee replacement in my right knee doctors wont tell me can someone else help please ? thankyou

Aisha

11 Aug 2011, 14:28

I had surgery in aug 2009 at age 17 to remove my plica and clean up my left knee to relieve severe pain I had for 6 years and forced me to stop playing sports.

Unlike the majority of the people writing, I've had great results. Had a normal recovery and 2 years later my knee is 85% better than before I had the surgery done.

While I encourage people to get multiple opinions (which was something I made sure to do) I wish more people were posting positive stories because if for some reason I have knee problems like i did before, I would get the surgery done again

Jules

19 Jul 2011, 15:43

After reading all of these posts, I am now more reluctant than ever of getting an arthroscopy. Two years ago I twisted my leg & tore my medial meniscus. However, I could limp around & the pain was bearable. My rheumatalogist injected Spuratz (not sure of spelling) & for over two years I've been pain free. 2011 comes around & I walked up some stairs. Knee began hurting when I walked so I went back for another set of shots. This time my doctor gave me Euflexxa (not made from chicken beak). After last shot, I felt like a huge knife was stuck on the right inside part of my L knee. I absolutely couldn't walk & had to borrow my mother's old wheelchair. The throbbing was constant. I couldn't sleep, couldn't bathe w/out help. It was horrible. Called my doctor of 6 years; he never called back. But little by little my knee got better. 4 months later & I can walk a little but best part, no pain. I can bend my knee; it doesn't lock (never did), only one pop once & I can stretch it out. I've been to rehab, massage, laser but I still can't walk w/out a walker. So I've made an appt. with an ortho surgeon for this Thursday. I know what he'll say--arthroscopy. But after reading all of these comments, I'm not sure surgery is a good idea. I'd already heard about the controversy. But will I ever walk again? One thing I did find out is that I have bad pronation, which means the way I walk affects my knees & hips. I bought orthodicts & ortho shoes which made a huge difference. Should I wait this out? Try diet & rehab w/a pysiatrist? I can't go thru that pain again. I am pain free now until I walk too long but each day my knee is better. Why flare it up again? I don't know. I just don't know what to do.

Lin Z

08 Jul 2011, 17:43

I hate to tell you folks but once you open a can of worms and do an arthroscope with knee arthritis, you WILL need a Total Knee Replacement in a very short time.
I had my knee arthroscope surgery 9/2010 on my left knee, which was horribly painful and brought NO relief whatsoever, had P/T for 8 weeks after that and had to quit because I needed a cane to walk for the first time in my life! I then had three shots of Euflexxa in same knee in January and was told by April 2011 that I needed the TKR anyway and was totally bone-on-bone.
Well, it's now July and here I am 9 weeks post-op from TKR and just beginning to feel better than I have in more than a year of agony. I am NOT out of the woods yet, still need pain meds, but the actual range of motion, ability to balance and take uneven surfaces, staircases, etc is I would say at least 75% better than before.
So there is hope if you have to resort to the Total Knee Replacements. Your pain becomes MANAGABLE, and with time the meds are tapered off to a reasonable level.
It is VERY hard work those first few weeks, and I will not sugar coat this, you must work for HOURS each day during the recovery time doing passive exercises, CPM (a machine which bends your leg for you) and then subsequently go to Physical Therapy and use the stationary bike and pool for many weeks. And yes the pain is unbelieveably insessant.
But it does get better. If you are a candidate for the Total Knee surgery, after trying the synovial replacement injections and still are having pain, I would skip the arthroscope and just plan for the TKR in your future. Good luck and hope this helps.

Tom

08 Jul 2011, 07:28

I had arthroscopic surgery (cartiledge/meniscus) on 2/28/11. It is now 7/8/11 and the pain has been intensifying every day. Tried cortisone...no good. Just finished the three synvisc gel injections...no good. Next stoo knee replacement. When the doctor asked me on a scale of one to ten how bad is the pain, I said, "you only go up to ten?"

Bill

26 Jun 2011, 13:22

I am 50 and a self employed Plumber in a small town of 5000. I have had a bad knee since I hurt myself at a Technical school when I was 20. The Colledge sent me to a quack and he prescribed me Ibuprofin.
approx. 8 years later...when I was tired of limping and having a swollen knee...I went to a real Doctor whom told me I had tore my ACL and both cartaliges. I had surgery with a HMO plan I had. The doctor told me I would be back in 5 years (this was after my surgery) I have limped on this knee ever since and today it is much worse. Almost unbareable. Since I am self employed and my wife has been working in our business for 15+
years...I am the only income and this Econnomy has all but ruined us. Did I mention we are in Texas where the business is suppose to be good! I need sugery but can't afford the time off it will take to recover. does anyone have any unsarcastic suggestions? we are paying for health insurance but the time off to recover will put us under if we survive this depression!

Charlene

24 Jun 2011, 14:03

I had surgery on my left know about 3 years ago. I had to cortisone shots, physical therapy and they did not work. My doctor did the surgery-3 tiny incisions and repaired some ligaments and torn cartilage and arthritis. The tests he performed did not show any damage ligaments or torn cartilage.
He performed the surgery to clean up the arthritis and when he got in there, he found the ligaments and cartilage damage. I have been pain free now for 3 years. Now I am getting ready to have the right knee done. I have arthritis and bursitis really bad. Back,knees-shoulders-hips. You name it and I have it. I was very please with my surgery. I know that not all surgeons are the same, I guess I got lucky. I will let you know the outcome of the surgery on my right knee.

Jennifer

06 Jun 2011, 11:26

Thank you very much for your postings.
You have answered my questions, more than you know.
I have had problems with my left knee for some time. I have osteoartritis and some back pain. I WAS considering surgery, but having read your postings, I will not fix what is not totally broken. I still play badminton and can walk pretty good, although
my back and bending does stiffen and pain
often. I can live with it, so far.
So, once again,thanks to all of you
and good luck.
At least we can all smell the roses and get some sunshine.

DAN

26 May 2011, 20:53

I HAD ACL SURGERY 6 WEEKS AGO. I WENT FOR MY CHECK UP AND THE DOCTOR DRAINED MY KNEE (3 VILES) AND WHEN I GOT HOME I HAD ALOT OF PAIN IN MY KNEE AND WITH IN A FEW HRS MY KNEE WAS SWOLLEN AGAIN IN THE SAME SPOT (ON TOP OF THE KNEE)SHOULD I GO BACK TOO THE DOC ASAP OR SHOULD i WAIT A FEW DAYS

ruthanntraci

23 May 2011, 00:22

After major fall leg would just quit working, so there I would be,wondering how I was going to make it to the car; so this seemed like the perfect thing to do. Was expecting at most 60 day recovery and dancing in the streets! Two years later both legs and hips hurt,injured leg always works now, however the right foot turns in. Having one leg issue ends up being quite a problem, both legs & hips will be put in harms way while you are trying to strengthen the damage knee after surgery.A fast walker now at times I walk with a limp, The good news is it has never totally quit on me since the surgery. Right after surgery I caught my leg under the dash, shared this information with the doctor, however he asured me it couldn't have harmed the surgery. First PT had me doing leg strenghtening that were too heavy and afterwards would be in far too much pain, and being 60 and his being 20 meant he just thought I was not trying hard enought, I still think that also hindered my results. The doctor sent me for pool theraphy, was the best, only problem, insurance only covers so many visits and the PT takes at least one day out of the week to evaluate your progress; if you can get to a pool, or even better have one of your own; do the pool exercises, if you can afford a PT/pool consider yourself blessed you are in the best of hands, but don't think that 2-3 times a week for 30-60 days is going to fix it. One year maybe, and then again we are all different and heal differently; hindsight? Pt. with pool 3 times a week, skip the surgery.

arlene

14 May 2011, 18:15

i had surgery 10 weeks ago for torn meniscus and chip on back side of knee. dr. said no problem and easy recoverey. after surgery im was probably going to have a knee replace down the road because he found more damage. im wondering what went wrong. mri and xray before surgery. my knee feels very bad.

Shima

30 Apr 2011, 06:02

Hi

I had an arthoscopy done on my left knee two years ago. Have not been able to keep my left leg straigh. am unable to walk , constantly lose my balance, got bad back pain and the Surgeon is unable to fix the problem. I am 33 yr old female whom can hardly walk. Is any one able to guide me what the next step is? I afford physio anymore , costing me about $70 for half an hour, and no improvement what so ever. Has anyone experienced the same problem?? Please please keep in touch with me, i need some advice.

Thanks
SHIMA

Bill

26 Apr 2011, 16:59

I just had knee surgery for a torn meniscus in my right knee. Recovery is slower than what I want but being 60 yr old and being in excellent condition is hard to go slow. During the past week I have followed what the physical therapist gave me for stretching so I can get back to running or just plain excerising. The problem is that I too have acquired a large knot above my knee and it hasn't gone down or away despite all the pain pills/advil or icing that I can do. Has anyone gotten an answer on why this is happening and will it go away? I would appreciate any info. Doctors have a tendencies to be elusive when dealing with a patient sometimes.

sherrybacior

08 Apr 2011, 15:17

have torn meniscus, 61 yo, female, also bad arthritis toward inside of knee. have been 'offered' arthroscopy by one doc and other doc says partial knee, maybe full knee replacement if he gets in to do surgery and finds kneecap has too much arthritis. have recently been fortunate to get an experimental knee brace, which unloads the weight from the part of the knee which is affected. it sort of pushes the painful part off of the knee off of the other knee and it it comes in many different designs, depending on where the pain is. it does seem to be diminishing my pain. at least i can walk straight now.
this brace is somewhat heavy and has to be made specifically to your measurements. lucky, my insurance co-pay is only 90.00 on this 900.00 brace. check around your area hospitals, etc., and ask about any such studies being conducted in your area. i found out about this study, and was told i could not have the brace because the study was full... until i said 'get me that brace'!!!!!!! but i am very fortunate to have good insurance. people in the study are getting the brace for free.

Kris

07 Apr 2011, 08:25

Hi ! I am a 45 ( for 2 more days )yr old female booked in to have keyhole surgery on both my knees in a few weeks . I had a fall years ago & was told nothing could be done , however after x rays etc the surgeon is keen to scrape them so I avoid arthritus . After reading all these stories I am now very nervous . I was looking forward to getting it done & having less pain but now I wonder if this pain that I know is better than the unknown .
Please help me ASAP

Kris in Australia , Thanks heaps /

gina

06 Apr 2011, 19:11

Jenna, were you babying it after surgery? Everyone's post op instructions are different but my doc wanted me to try to walk on it as much as I could and not baby mine but I could use the assistance of a cane or crutch because its obvious you cant put your full weight on it.
Have you been icing it and elevating it every chance you get? Also have you tried any exercise they gave you to try?

jenna

06 Apr 2011, 18:07

hi i had a knee arthoscopy 2 weeks ago. dr found a large discoid meniscus w/ a tear he did a meniscus saucerization, on the pattella compartment, he found a large plica which was removed. i am now 2 weeks post op. still having serever pain, swelling, and cant walk at all. what can cause this

Gina

03 Apr 2011, 11:25

I had arthroscopic surgery on my left knee after a car accident back in Aug 2009, it healed up perfectly and felt better then ever. In Sep of 2010 I needed to have the right knee done and let me tell you.. both are completely horrible now.. I am in so much pain when I go from sitting to standing.. I cant squat.. going up and down stairs is horrible...Always stiff. I am only 29 and I regret getting the surgeries done because I am so scared of what the future holds for me now. I would say if you really do not need it do not get it. Just my opinion.

Nathan

25 Mar 2011, 18:01

Courtney I'm sorry to inform you that since you just had surgery your comments are premature. Please post again by September 2011 and see if you still feel the same.

I'm also sorry to tell you that the worst is yet to come. You think you are better after 24 hours but the truth is that your knee will never be the same. Also you have brought yourself one step closer to eventually needing a total knee replacement. I had my surgery back in August 2009 and at first felt like you. Now after reading several knee related books and talking to tons of people who had this surgery I'm 100% convinced that it does much more harm than good except in an emergency. Time will reveal the unfortunate truth for you.

Courtney

22 Mar 2011, 13:09

I had arthoscopic surgery just a little over 24hrs ago and have been home about 10-12hrs. And I must say my knee does already feel better....it is a little stiff and sore but i mean come on that is to be expected. And I know most of your are thinking oh you are on pain killers and just can't feel the pain yet! I am not on any form of medication other than an anti-biotic to prevent infection. I am going to school to be a nurse and know what those pain medications can do to a person's stomach so i refuse to take them. Elevation and ice have been what seem to be my savior! I'm sure the road is going to get a bit more harder before it gets easier but I am only 21 and have been suffering from chronic knee pain since i was 16. I've had 2 xrays, 2 MRI's, 2 rounds of 3 month long treatments of physical therapy and an injection. None of which worked and none of which detected anything. My surgeon went in and cleared up my knee took out some synovial fluid and said there was parts of my knee that looked like ground hamburg and that had to be completely taken out. So you can read all you want and you can believe the negative or positive posts but so far I am happy with my knee (minus the scars I am going to have).

zach

22 Mar 2011, 10:02

im 23 years old and i had a menical debridment done 3 months ago it help for about 1 mo but the pain is right back to where it was before the surgery. but before now i have been very inactive no running jumping anything and now that ive been active again it right back. they found a small hole in my cartaliage while they were in there and just told me thati would have arthritis for the rest of my life nothing they could do... im 23 wtf

Jean

15 Mar 2011, 10:18

I had severe pain and reduced mobility in my left knee so I had an arthroscopy carried out and it was discovered that I had bits and pieces floating all over the place. I was told that I needed a knee replacement but this washout, together with a menisectomy, might buy me a bit more time. That was 4 years ago and it's still going strong! Mind you, I'm getting pain in the other knee now and that is going to be a replacement job but I'm holding off at the moment. I cope by using a TENS machine. You have to do what works for you.

sparksy

14 Mar 2011, 16:40

OMG i had arthroscopic surgey on my left on Dec 14th 2010. I played womens football sine i was 18 i am now early 40s.. I wish i just kept taking pain killers before and after the game....i always got over it, but i cant get over this.
I LIMP I AM IN CONSTANT PAIN. MY LEG IS AS STIFF AS A ROCK, IF I LAY WITH IT STRAIGHT IT KILLS ME....I AM IN CONSTANT AGONY...AND have to watch my team play every sunday....just had a 2nd MRI scan and looks like they will operate again....I DONT CARE NOW I NEED TO HAVE ANYTHING DONE....I CANT LIVE WITH THIS PAIN ANY LONGER...I WISH I COULD TURN BACK TIME..

Dede

23 Feb 2011, 14:53

My doctor kept insisting I did not have torn knee cartilage but went ahead with surgery and discovered 2 tears. He completed the arthroscopic surgery and I have been in tremendous pain since then. I cannot take anti-inflammatory drugs because they make my stomach bleed; I've tried physical therapy but that did not help. Now any exercise makes the pain worse. I take narcotics for the pain and apply Lidocaine patches but I am still in pain. My orthopedist says I do not need knee replacement for at least 10 years. So I continue to suffer with no end in sight.

Paul

22 Feb 2011, 23:32

I had a small repair done to the meniscus at age 18. For the most part was able to exercise and work (Industrial Electrician)for 25 yrs pretty good. I am know 43 and a few months ago my knee popped could not walk very well for a month. The MRI showed arthritis and another meniscus tear with naturally fluid built up around knee. I have had two shots of cortizone and only is helping so so. I am scared to death of surgery but my occupation very much depends on my body. I am also very active and can't stand the thought of not working out. Most of these post seem very negative really worries me!!!!!!!!!!

jawaf

03 Feb 2011, 07:13

Hi, I'm a 35 years old contemporary dancer and yogi. I've got the knee arthroscopy 4 years ago because of my first knee injury while I twisted it during dancing. I had got 2 options: 1 to rest for 1 month, 2 to do arthroscopy to fix the problem. And I have no idea what pushed me to such a stupid decision to do arthroscopy. After the surgery I have never recovered fully although the surgeon confirmed that my knee was in perfect shape. I've got a chronicle pain in my left knee since then. Before the surgery I slightly torn my ligament which caused the pain and apparently fully recovered before the surgery. But I didn't know about it. Now 4 years later I've got a torn medial meniscus in the same left knee and the surgery is recommended to relief the pain and discomfort. I've got my next second surgery scheduled by 15th February and I really don't want to do it as I know how painful it is. But for the other hand I am in pain all the time. I keep my physical activities such a yoga and contemporary dance but I seem to be a masochist, it's a torture to be physically active all the day long with such an extreme knee pain. I wish someone could tell me that I can dance again as I used before without any surgical intervention. If there is any dancer with a similar problem or someone who is training few hours a day after the surgery or anyone else who can advise either on knee arthroscopy or alternative therapy please reply.

Kevin Batdorf

22 Jan 2011, 12:58

Im less then 50 and I had 2 torn Meniscus done less then a year ago.I got a bad limp and had my total left knee replaced.I should have gotten 3 or 4 opions.

tee

15 Jan 2011, 19:20

i had 2 arthroscopies within 6 months. today is week 12 post-operation of my 2nd arthoscopy.
bfore the scop, i could run , n play sports , experienced pain ONLY after exercise,but now I'M IN AGONY,couldnt walk more without cructhes because of unbearable pain!! entire left lower limb is wasted, with hip n backpain as well.i may need to give up my job,just graduated from medical school..
surgeon suckx! my only hope now is can walk without crutches so tat i can return back to my routine..
NEVER do arthroscopy to rectify minimal cartilage wearoff n meniscal tear!

Connie

11 Jan 2011, 23:28

I had arthroscopic surgery exactly 3 years ago. My knee has never been the same. I had not had knee pain before other than mild pain when I had overdone exercise until one day I had bent down to pick up something heavy and I felt my knee pull. After that I was limping and my knee begin to swell. This went on for almost a year with the doctor telling me it was due to arthritis and injury. He gave me synvisc injections which did help some for a short time. Finally I agreed to the arthroscopy and it did not help at all. It made things worse. I now have constant pain, walk with a limp, will never be able to wear a shoe with a heel again and can't walk any distance without having to sit down to relieve the pain. I think I will be this way for the rest of my life. When I googled this tonight, I was hoping to find others who had gone through this with success. Apparently, the arthroscopy is not the answer for anyone.

Caroline

09 Jan 2011, 01:50

Injured my Rt.knee 6 years ago carrying a bag of mulch and twisted my ankle. Kneeled on the back seat to vacumn out the car and felt a terrible burning pain and pop. Knee locked and swelled. Had surgery 5 weeks later to have both menicus removed. The knee has never stopped hurting. Am going on my 4th Euflexa round and looking at a knee replacement in a few years. Used to run , then walked 3 miles a day. Not anymore. Maybe can walk a mile and that is pushing it on a good day. Any lifting twisting or pulling and I am suffering for weeks. Swelling and pain are my constant companions. Quite discouraged for the future. Would love to exercize like I used to. Dr wants to clean out the knee. After reading the stories from all of you...forget it. Let sleeping dogs lie. Knee replacement trying to ignore and not have on the adjenda for a few more years! I am only 56. What a bummer!

Lyn

22 Dec 2010, 22:35

I am 63 ,a hiker and skier. My left knee became swollen after coming down a mountain and it would not bend as tightly as the other knee so i agreed to an arthroscopy. I had no pain but I was keen to restore my knee. It is 6 weeks since the procedure and I now have pain on and off. My knee is less able to bend than before and I am now regretting having had this done. I am however praying that with continued walking and swimming that it will improve. It is mostly painful after sitting, and walking round the shops, a shock after being an avid walker.

Jason

19 Nov 2010, 19:28

It was 2 years almost since Jan, 2009
... not 2008

Jason

19 Nov 2010, 19:19

The outdoor biking in natural and soothing environment did help me on relieving knee recovery after this arthroscopic surgery. I had one Taiwanese doctor cleaning my knee on this treatment, and I was 38 by then. It was 2 years almost since Jan, 2008. The recovery seemed a failure. I still could move my right knee accordingly, only the knee just weak while I try to balance or moving my body in a delicate posture. Currently, I stay on regular biking (4 to 6 hrs) with proper rest. It'll be better if mixed with outdoor swimming, mild hiking. Seemed to me, the regular stimulatiIon on my hurt knee help a lot, only I have to be careful not to put too much pressure in one workout session. The stationary biking could help a bit, but not as good as biking in an outdoor environment during dry weathers. I heard people in Asia usually talk about Tui Na2, a kind of traditional massage Chinese claimed could help on hurt bone structues... I haven't tried yet... I cope with this situation: to make myself happy on those workout I could still keep, and focus on those really help me felt alive... and... stay away from most of the doctors...

Nathan

19 Nov 2010, 15:23

Mike DON'T DO IT without getting a second opinion or you may regret it forever. What they (surgeons) call cleaning may in fact make you much worse forever! Get that 2nd and even a 3rd or 4th opinion. Don't say when it's too late that you weren't warned. I wish someone would have told me this before my surgery.

There are definitely many other options. Do the research carefully before committing yourself to a lifetime of pain. AND PLEASE DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND READ MY PREVIOUS POSTS AGAIN! Best wishes.

Mike

18 Nov 2010, 14:46

I had ACL replacement 24 yrs ago on my left knee. I have been active over the past several years and have noticed that my knee has locked up and is giving out. Confirmed yesterday after the MRI that there is considerable arthritis and possible tears. I am going forward with the "clean up" on the knee in December, though some of the stories here are a concern. At 42, ignoring the pain is not an option. I will follow up in late December.

Nathan

11 Nov 2010, 15:42

Christine it sounds like you are being scammed. First of all studies clearly show that arthroscopic quackery does nothing for arthritis except make it worse! Second it is not normal to perform surgery without x-rays and an MRI. Go to a doctor who is NOT a surgeon but specializes in "rehabilitation". You would almost definitely benefit more from various types of therapies rather than surgery. The surgeon will just lie and say it's a simple procedure but it's not. Only after trying everything else first should anyone even consider surgery. Do you really want to take a chance of never getting better or gettin much worse? I know because I had this surgery and realize that I'll never fully recover. DON'T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE!!! Best of luck.

Nathan

08 Nov 2010, 11:12

It's obvious that Cody is one of the surgeons legally stealing money from unsuspecting victims. Read the previous posts before undergoing this surgery or you'll regret every second of it. As for Cody you have been revealed as the scam artist you really are.

The complete truth is that even 6 months after the surgery most normal people will still be in more pain than before the surgery!

Christine

04 Nov 2010, 05:10

My doctor has recommended arthroscopy of my left knee because he says it's wear and tear with a bit of arthritis. He said he would go in and clean it up a bit, but said there was no point in doing an x-ray or MRI. I would like to ask if anybody else went ahead with this surgery without any pre-knowledge of the exact problem in their knee. I decided to cancel the surgery and book an appointment to see the surgeon again to ask for an MRI. I was quite surprised at first with his rather cavalier attitude. Afterall, it's my knee and I would like to know exactly what is wrong with it.

Nathan

03 Nov 2010, 19:13

I had arthroscopic surgery in August 2009 to fix a meniscus tear in my right knee. This was the biggest mistake of my life. I later found out that this surgery is not recommended for anyone over 40. It actually has the best chance of working if you’re in your 20s.

Before the surgery I only had pain the day after playing tennis and occasionally when walking down stairs. Now I have some pain all the time. I’ve spent many many months trying physical therapy, acupuncture, heat, cold, massage and injections but nothing brings it back to normal. I can’t stay on a treadmill for more than a few minutes or I’ll have serious pain for days. My advice to everyone is to get at least 2 opinions from doctors who are NOT surgeons. Surgeons will lie just to make a quick buck. Again I repeat DO NOT GET THIS SURGERY UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY!!!

Best wishes to all.
Nathan

Nathan

31 Oct 2010, 21:02

I had arthroscopic surgery in August 2009 to fix a meniscus tear in my right knee. This was the biggest mistake of my life. I later found out that this surgery is not recommended for anyone over 40. It actually has the best chance of working if you're in your 20s.

Before the surgery I only had pain the day after playing tennis and usually only when walking down stairs. Now I have some pain all the time. I've spent many many months trying physical therapy, acupuncture, heat, cold, massage and injections but nothing brings it back to normal. I can't stay on a treadmill for more than a few minutes or I'll have serious pain for days. My advice to everyone is to get at least 2 opinions from doctors who are NOT surgeons. Surgeons will lie just to make a quick buck. Again I repeat DO NOT GET THIS SURGERY UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY!!!

mae

25 Oct 2010, 18:27

I had a torn meniscus and that part was removed during arthroscopic surgery in 1996.If I had it to do over, I never would have this done again. I would leave the meniscus in cause once its gone your knee doesn't have the pad it needs to stay straight. I honestly can say I had more pain than before surgery and it lasted for a good TEN years until my leg was so crooked the pain then was just in a different part of my leg/knee. In May of this year I had a total knee replacement. The surgeon said if I hadn't done it now he probably would not be able to get my leg straight. My right knee was touching the inside of my left knee, my leg sorta V like bend of 16 degrees. Now, after blood clots slowing me down in physical therapy, which caused my knee to form scar tissue so I couldn't bend it, I had to be put under again to manipulate "bend" it to break scar tissue loose, so three months of 3 days a week physical therapy, its finally better. I still can't kneel down on the knee though without pain. The doc says I need to have the left knee done also. I will only when it totally falls out from under me! and not a day sooner. At 57, if my husband had not been retired and able to help me, there is no way I could have had this surgery. I wish anyone having any surgery on their knees the best of luck. Won't do it again anytime soo.

Teresa Marousek

21 Oct 2010, 20:49

I had arthroscopic surgery on the 6th of this month and have a whole lot of more problems than what I had before I even had the surgery. I am now walking with a limp. Lose my balance. The knee now locks on me. I have been having trouble today with popping and then serve pain that is almost impossible to walk on. Was told that I will need knee replacement. I am only 45 years old. I lost my job due to the fact of the pain in the knee and couldn't walk. Now I can't work because I don't know when the knee will lock.

Jason

15 Oct 2010, 16:14

I had the athroscopic surgery in Jan, 2009; since then, I gradually recovered, I moved my right knee better today. I've done regular biking to nearby mountain in the city I live, Taipei, a basin. I felt better if I do biking in summer, and now, weather gets cool, my right knee felt bit stiff and not really alright, perhaps I need to do more biking, say 4 hours and more per day if I could, or it's the weather, it seemed in my case, the hot weather better for my hurt right knee. I regret on doing this surgery, I couldn't do jogging now... in the begging I thought it was I live in Taipei, a developing country, maybe our national insurance system made doctors lack of professional skill or unwilling to treat patience right... but I just read comments here, I doubt about this surgery, maybe it's just the technology not yet matured... I'll try some Asian acupuncture and others, since the "western" surgery didn't help all right....

Jack

14 Oct 2010, 22:12

I had arthroscopics surgery on my right miniscus yeaterday and am walking around and able to go up the stairs. Have taken no painkillers as it is not necessary. My other leg was done 18 months ago and had the same results. Both ops were done by an Egyptian doctor in a clinic in Doha, Qatar. Yesterday the doctor cleaned up both sides of the knee. I went in at 10 a.m. and walked out at 4.

fats2324

08 Oct 2010, 07:40

im an arthritis patient from last 8 yrs ., now im 30 yrs old ., my left knee is swelled and painful doc did MRI the result shows swollen and abnormal synovial membrane ., rheumatologist refer me to orthro surgeon ., surgeon said i have to go for orthroscopy just to have a clear image and to remove the membrane and then ill feel better for next 10-15 yrs should i go for that i have very small kids if some thing goes wrong who will ake care of them .,plz give me advice im worried

joanne

23 Sep 2010, 12:06

coleen you should defo not have gone back to work that soon.you need to rest for so long and then gradually build up your daily routines.especially if you are doing physical things.some times depending on the dr they dont always give you the correct advice.you know yourself if your capable of going back or not.listen to your body and get a second opinion. x

joanne

23 Sep 2010, 11:58

hi i had the arthroscapy on my right knee 8days ago.I could put presure on it the same day i came home as my knee was numbed quite well.I have been and still am using crutches now and then for extra support as i can't fully straighten my leg when i walk,as if i do starighten it it hurts bad in the right side of my knee.i hope this gets better as i find myself limping.i wear my support bandage i am coping with paracetmol and naproxen(anti inflamitary).hope i get back to normal but as it's only been 8 days i still have time to get better.im just worried i won't be able to walk properly or straighten it again.

Colleen

22 Sep 2010, 22:35

I had arthroscopic knee surgery for torn meniscus,also surgeon said i had a lot of torn cartilage at the back of my knee,he also said he cleaned up the arthritis, had the surgery on 7th Sept 2010,its now 23rd Sept and i feel worse than i ever did before the surgery!, the surgeon told me a week after the op that i can go back to work!!! told him my job is very physically demanding, (lots of bending/walking etc) he said yes thats ok! i have been doing all the things he has said, ice,exercise etc even bought a bike so i can strengthen the knee but the pain is terrible and is so stiff! if i knew then what i know now i would not have had it done,, i feel like i will never walk without a limp, and feel so fed up with not being able to do even simple things like walk comfortable, and am a bit annoyed that i have to go back to work so soon,
Colleen x

Ronald

20 Sep 2010, 16:22

All the kinds of arthritis are undoubtedly very painful which is unpleasant and he does not let us live in peace but the good is that it can be fought against medicaments as lortab and hydrocodone.
Ronald
Findrxonline.com

daniel

13 Sep 2010, 15:29

did anyone above consider seeing the top knee surgeons who perform on elite athletes like kobe bryant and tiger woods who had very successful results? i'm wondering if all your frustration would have not have existed in the first place if you had the top knee surgeons in the U.S. do the operations?

Diane

07 Sep 2010, 14:41

I had my arthroscopic surgery on Aug 6th 2010.. my knee itself feels great even thought I have not yet been released by my Dr to go back to work.. But my problem is that now I have a knot like feeling on the top part of my knee and it is still feeling stiff... I just want that feeling to go away...

Manny

23 Aug 2010, 16:27

I had arthroscopic surgery on my right knee in 2003 due to two tears in my menicus. I immediatley was able to go back top playing sports. Now I have a tear in my left knee along ith some floating junk which the doctor recommends for it to be cleaned out. I have been dealing with my left knee problem for two years (no strength, can't jog or jump, hard to climb ladder) but now it is starting to lock on me (sharp sudden pain on the inner part of the knee due to the tear). Now considering arthroscopic surgery so I can hopefully get back to doing activities I'm used to. But as with any surgery it may be worse afterwards as per all the testimony given here. What other options are there?

Judy

23 Aug 2010, 11:16

My experience is different than many of you. I had arthroscopic surgery on my right knee in nov. 2009 and my left knee in feb. 2010. I had a torn miniscus in each, a hairline fracture in the left knee, and had "junk" cleaned out. I am significantly better. The joint pain is diminished by about 75%. Yes, I would recommend surgery to others. I am not an ideal candidate, I am 62 and overweight and a cancer survivor. My knees will now probably last several more years before replacement is needed.

Ann

16 Aug 2010, 10:03

Here was me thinking I was alone in this!!
Had arthroscopy done 5 months ago in right knee, due to torn cartilage. The discomfort experienced before the op is nothing compared to what I have now. I can't bend my knee properly, can't kneel down on it at all. I also now walk with a limp which hurts my hip and lower back. Before the op I was also playing badminton twice a week, now it's a thought even to walk my two dogs for 10 minutes without having someone or something to support me. I've been back to the GP several times but they just keep saying it will get better and to take painkillers if it's bad. I'm only 47!

Would I have the procedure done again - a most definite NO!

nycole

14 Aug 2010, 13:04

I had arthroscopic surgery 3 months ago for torn cartildge, my pain is worse now than before,upon yesterday my doc said that the cartlidge under knee cap is worst, I have pain running down front of legs and behind leg and my lower back hurts from the limp.But my doctor is NOT listening to me i know that hes not gonna say ok i made a mistake or something like that i just want him to fix it.I havent returned to work yet thats a plus, except the bills keep coming on time.Just want to know what can be done to stop constant pain

Peggy W McKever

11 Aug 2010, 22:56

I had a artroscopy done on my left knee after a fall ,tore the meniscus in two places the pain was mild before the surgery now i cant even sllep at night for the stabbing pains in my knee and it runs down the front of my leg, the surgeon said I need to have a total knee replacement, but no insurance and very low income i need some advice on how I can receive some finNCIl ID FOR THIS SURGERY.

Lyle

10 Aug 2010, 18:28

I have now had 3 knee surgeries. The first one was after 3 years of severe pain due to Grade 2 Arthritis(All the cartilage under patella was like crab meat) and a meniscus tear, when I was 24 years of age . Surgery done wonders. 7 Years later Dr.'s thought Arthritis was back, but they found the joint lining was folded over and interior meniscus torn, so they clipped it out.Knee was great for another6 years.Dr told me I had Chodromalacia Patella.Nothing could be done. He said change career,go into anything you want but get out of kitchen ,as I am a chef.Bull#$@%. I had another arthroscopic and debridement. Feel great thus far.Good Luck all.

Anyone

05 Aug 2010, 21:13

Hey Cody what bullshit are you selling? Try reading the above posts before you recommend stupid info.

Janice

05 Aug 2010, 18:37

I had arthroscopic knee surgery 2 wks ago. I had fallen and hurt my knee. It was swollen so much I had to go to a dr. and was referred to an ortho dr. He done an MRI and said I had injured my meniscus and needed surgery. During the surgery nothing was injured but he found crystals in it that were arthritis, so he cleaned it out. I am in so much pain much more pain than before surgery. I cannot bend my knee now and I am going through PT. If there wasnt anything badly wrong with my knee I don't see why he recommended surgery. I could have lived with alittle arthritis. He should have seen this in the MRI. I'm so confused now about drs are they just out for the $? I'm 42 and my job requires me to stand and walk the whole time. I havent returned to work yet and the bills keep coming in. I'm at a lost to what to do now. I need my job, but my knee will not work right. Its still very painful and after reading here I wish I had refused the surgery and went in another direction. I will never have it done again, anything else would be better than how I feel now!!! Good luck to everyone who has had this. I feel for all of you.

Jeff

03 Aug 2010, 16:51

With no disrespect to all posters here, I feel the sum of all these comments are not representative of the population. Those with happy results are busy enjoying their lives.

I have been scoped on both knees. One 15 years ago just confirmed a minor acl tear; has been fine since. The other scope 6 years ago on an ACL repaired knee (from 1982), cleaned up some meniscus and removed the intense pain; been playing tennis again on it since. Arthritis extremely severe now, but self inflicted(?)

I question whether surgery will do anything for me at 53.

Liz

01 Aug 2010, 08:51

I had arthroscopic knee surgery 2 months ago for what I thought was one tear and turned out to be two. I have very bad arthritis and patella problems in the knee but I've had this since my 30s (I'm 52) and never had any problems except with stairs. My job requires me to stand and walk for hours. I am in worse pain then before and can't focus on anything else but the pain. I'm seeing my surgeon in a few days and am concerned he will tell me again that its my pain threshold. I was on celebrex for a month. I'm starting to have back problems because of how I walk and move, etc. I had PT for a month and am swimming daily as I was told to. I don't know what to do but am consideirng acupuncture. Why is the pain worse? It feels like I'm walking around with a 20 pound weight around my knee and pain is terrible on inside, behink knee and above the cap. Still paying off the bills.

Nathan

29 Jul 2010, 20:54

I had arthroscopic surgery on August 7, 2009. It is now July 29, 2010 and I still get on and off sharp pain in my knee. When will this heal? Is there anything I can do to fully recover. I have had months of therapy and a cortisone injection above the area of pain. Also I have some arthritis in back of the knee that was repaired (a small meniscus tear). I'm over 50 and was told that it could take up to a year to heal. About 2 months ago I had an MRI of the knee. The doctor said the changes shown in the MRI are consistent with normal changes after arthroscopic surgery.

At this point (nearly a year later) I need some help or perhaps treatment. Any suggestions or help here would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time in reading and perhaps answering my plea for help.

Nathan

Paul Gilliam

24 Jul 2010, 20:53

I am 57 yo and I have had 5 arthroscopic surgeries performed by 3 different surgeons over the years: 3 on my L knee, 2 on my R. It began in 1990 with a medial menicus tear. Later surgeries all were undertaken because of a suspected meniscal tear. All the doctors except the last one took it upon themselves to "help me out" by smoothing out my articular cartilage by burning it, first with a holmium laser, and later with a bi-polar RFE. Today, both my knees feel like they have tiny shards broken glass inside them. I can no longer do the things I used to do. I regret all those surgeries during which the orthopaedist burned up the inside of my knee.
My advice is if you have a meniscal tear that needs to be fixed, find a doctor who does not provide this harmful and ruination service of so-called articular smoothing, because, trust me, it will ruin your knees. I am considering sueing my last doctor because I am much worse off after the surgery than before.

Carol Greenwood

23 Jul 2010, 11:47

I had a fall injuring my knee but continued to walk on my leg for 2 1/2 months in pain and falling periodically for no reason. The doctor prescribed an MRI and a torn meniscus was diagnosed; I had arthoscopic surgery to repair the meniscus tear but still suffer knee pain two years after the surgery. The doctor said the pain is due to osteoarthritis not as a result from the surgery. I may have had arthritis before the surgery but I never had any pain until after the meniscus tear was performed. Did the surgery cause the osteoarthritis? Thank you. Carol

David L. Czupski

05 Jul 2010, 03:13

The cartilage on my knee is indeed totally worn off. Doing an arthroscopic debridment would have limited value if any. Although, since this is just a key hole procedure, my doctor wants to go in and clean it out. He also would also be adding a viscosupplementation (Synvisc) intra-articular injection after the procedure. My one problem is that the last time I had this procedure done my leg was infected. Because the cartilage came from chickens, not that of a human cadaver as they used the first time and it worked well. Is there a new type of treatment that uses different types besides that from animal livestock. I will be having these procedure done in Manila, Philippines next month

jessica

29 Jun 2010, 16:07

I am not having this surgery because of what iv read here. But the doctor says my cartalage will wear down if I dont and I cant bend my right knee to kneel or anything. Will this get better without surgery ? im am 29 years old and have 4 young children. I cant afford to be in more pain.

yogi

25 Jun 2010, 20:53

I just had my surgery on yesterday. They had to repair my menicus. Got up for the first time today on crutches. Pain is manageable. My only complaint is that they wrapped my leg, and it so tight until it hurts. I will be able to take the wrap off on Sunday and i can't wait.
I have been reading everyone's posting. I just hope everyone feels better soon.
I do have just one question. When did everyone go back to work after tthe surgery.

J. Williamson

16 Jun 2010, 23:36

I also had arthoscopic surgery on one knee and a month later, the other one. When the doctor opened the right one up, he said he never seen so much arthritis. That was the right one. They're both worst than ever than before I had the surgery. I fixing to go to a doctor where they give you injections called RIT.(rejuvenation injection therapy), prolotherapy. These injections induce the tiessues to release various growth factors to stimulate and promote tissue healing and strengthening.
There are no steriods used. Has been use over 75 years in Europe and the USA, but the insurance companies will not cover the cost of the procedure. We will see if this works. Don't know how much more pain I can endure. Check in your area about this.

murdoch macdonald

16 Jun 2010, 12:25

I was going to ask my doctor tomorrow to recommend me to a Orho specialist I am very hesitant after reading the over-whelming negatives to surgery.
I have RA but think I have "loose" cartilage or other problems in rt. knee.
What to Do?

Paul Butler

13 Jun 2010, 12:29

I had arthroscopic knee surgery last month. This has been followed up with physical therpy. The surgery repaired two tears to the miniscus and cleaning out a lot of junk.

Before the surgery doing marathons had become impossible [walk- don't run]. Actually walking up stairs without dragging my foot was not possible.

Yesterday I walked 3 miles and really did not have any pain. My goal is to do a marathon at the end of September.I will be 68 in September and only have two marathons planned before the year is over.

The overnight pain that existed before surgery is gone and I am now getting a full night of rest.

Carla

13 Jun 2010, 10:27

Well its 11 weeks now since my meniscal repair surgery and I am in absolute agony.

Before surgery I might have had some pain but WOW this is too much. My surgeon said wait and see 4 times to me in his surgery.

This is some kind of joke. I have been looking online and I cannot see a percentage of more than 4% of people who have benefited from this surgery. I have had to get married ON CRUTCHES how bad is that. I am in floods of tears this surgery has ruined my life.

Will never have it done again. Good luck to everyone x

Pat D

11 Jun 2010, 17:47

I think that I am the perfact example that
Arthroscopic knee surgery can make knee pain and Ostero Arthritis worse.
I had that surgery on my left knee and it took 2 years to get out of the pain it caused.
Since then I came under the care of a rheumatoligist who has given me injections of Euflexxor, every 6 months for the past year and a half, and it has worked miricles for me. I'm out of pain and able to walk 2 miles every day and do "line dancing" without any pain.
I would NEVER have authroscopic surgery on any knee again!

Mary Ann

11 Jun 2010, 01:03

I feel exactly like Judy does...In the mid-late 90's, I had two scopes for miniscus tears, in my right knee. I had played tennis, a lot, over the two years prior to the first surgery. In 2003, I decided enough was enough, and went to a sports medicine specialist. He recommended total knee replacement, in my right knee...It was done in early 2004, when I was just 51, and my recovery was the worst of all my surgeries (I'd had 15, of various kinds, from tonsillectomy, three C-sections, to having the large vein taken out, in both legs...Never had I had such a negative experience!!! I went five days a week, for three months, to physical therapy, to allow optimum healing...to no avail!!!

My newly-operated leg felt shorter than the left one, and steps/stairs have been a challenge (especially, going down) ever since. I can't walk long without hurting (now, I need the left knee done, too)...and I need the crutch of my grandbaby's stroller handle or a shopping cart, when I do walk for any amount of time.

Like many of the above people who commented, I, too, fear having surgery on the other leg, for the possibility (or probability, in my case...diabetic, with many circulatory issues, take a baby aspirin every day) of blood clots. My friend lost her mom, at 53, three days after elective surgery, to a blood clot that travelled to her brain.

I take three Advil Liqui-Gels every morning (the earlier the better, for effectiveness), and I purchased expensive, orthotic shoes (Z-Coils are good, too). Any analgesic roll-ons, like Bio Freeze and Capzacin are temporary comforts, that help...and don't forget the ice and heat packs (I like the corn bags, that you can microwave)!!

Good luck, I am there with you!!!

Barbara

10 Jun 2010, 17:35

I had Arthroscopic surgery exactly 1 Year ago.
I thought I was doing good, but I stand a lot at work well its June now and I am in so much Pain from all the standing, I come home so tired and rest each night with Hot or cold packs which ever works better. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. Need to Have Knee Replacement soon. just the thought of it!!!!

kathy

10 Jun 2010, 15:11

I have osteoarthritis, torn ligaments and cartilage problems in my right knee. I was advised by my orthopedic surgeon to have arthroscopic surgery, yet my rheumatologist said not to have this procedure done. I also have severe fibromyalgia and do not know if this is playing a part in the horrible pain.I am caught between a rock and a hard place like so many others. Does anyone else with knee problems who were advised to get them scoped also have fibromyalgia? I would like to know if anyone else can relate. Thank You.

Judy

10 Jun 2010, 12:51

I've had arthroscopic surgery on both knees for torn meniscus cartilage, one in 1996 and the other in 2000. My recovery went okay both times. After the doctor told me I was able to do it, I did a lot of power and regular walking in the years after they healed. My theory is that since cartilage was removed, I had less cartilage in each knee to absorb shock and it wore out sooner. None of my doctors were willing to agree with this but by 2008, I was bone on bone in both knees. I was told I was too old (over 50) for consideration to be given to artifical or cadaver cartilage for replacement and my only option was knee replacement. Since I could hardly walk, I agreed to replacement of the worst knee. Although I recovered quickly from other surgeries, it was not the case this time. Although the replacement knee is fully functional, there still is some pain and stiffness and I will not undergo the replacement of the other knee.

Jackie

07 Jun 2010, 03:12

I feel sorry to hear so many unhappy stories about knee arthroscopy. But luckily enough my story is a happy one.

I too had knee arthroscopy for a medial tear in my left knee, which was caused by running. I had surgery just over six weeks ago. My knee feels better than it ever has. I a running again as well, if not better than I was before. The surgery was painless. I made sure I did everything I was supposed to. I did all the exercises I was told to. I do think that surgery is very diffent for all types of people. I think the fitter you are before the surgery. The quicker you recover. I hope everyone who has had surgery feels great again very soon.

Marylin

22 May 2010, 16:06

I had arthroscopic surgery approx 4yrs ago, and over the past six months i have started having pain running down my right leg to the top of my foot. This has been off and on now waking me up at night. I am hoping cortisone shots will help because i am not going to have another surgery.

Erv

20 May 2010, 22:12

I had water removed from my left knee two years ago. At that time the doc said I need surgery and I said no. I went back to the doc in March for water on the knee again and he said it needs fixed. Don't know what I was thinking but I said I trust you. When I awoke from surgery the Doc told me it was real bad and that the next time I'm looking at a partial. I too just returned to work this week. Seven weeks after surgery I am in pain when prior to surgery I never was barring when I got the water again. At 37 and very much active I have been very depressed the last two days. Hold me Jesus

marilynn

18 May 2010, 13:41

I am in tears after reading this...tears of relief and frustration. Relief?...knowing I'm not alone...frustration? ...because it's now 3 months after right knee arthroscopy and I hurt worse than I did going in....sometimes it seems better, but mostly I am in great pain...docs look at me like I'm an addict when i ask for more pain meds...I am not doing surgery again because i think it made my arthritis worst...(my prior diagnosis was mild arthritis...hah!) I am losing weight, not over-doing it and using ice, etc...so why the constatnt pain, swelling and stiffness?

I am so tired of this, but hate to be whining...jeez.

cassie

17 May 2010, 14:23

I had arthroscopic knee surgery on both my knees 6 weeks ago and my left knee is worse than it was before and my right knee hurts from putting all my weight on that one. Mind you I am only 27 and I went back to work yesterday and had to leave early today because its a constant pain. My work wants me to go on disability?? going to doctor today

MopsyMaid

14 May 2010, 07:09

It is up to each person to decide. ME? Not on your life will I go thru arthoscopic/knee surgery again. WHY? I am scard of infection and a blood clot killing me. I had arthoscopic in 2000 for rt knee torn Medial meniscus. It took forever for the pain to leave and I developed a Baker's cyst which I still have today. I was in arobic water therapy and PT for months and finally said no more. The knee took almost 2 years to feel somewhat better. Yes, I baby the knee and make sure I do not injure it. Well, I did injure it again with a fall, 4 weeks ago. MRI shows a Medial meniscus tear in same knee. Now, in 2000 they removed 40% of that tear. Doc gave me a cortisone shot the other day and said arthoscpic clean-up in a month's time....I don't think so. You cannot remove more of an already compromised knee. There will be nothing left to clean out and I do not want a new knee. I lost 2 friends to knee surgery. One 50 year old to hospital infection and another one to a blood clot one week after knee surgery. Knee, Hip and Pelvic surgery are the areas that are most prone to developing blood clots. I am now 68 years old.

Heidi Farr

13 May 2010, 08:37

I had arthroscopic surgery on my knee April 2. I had a torn meniscus due to car accident. The sugery was quick and not alot of pain, but it took me atleast a month or so to bebale to do basic things like standing for more than 5 minutes without my knee feeling some discomfort. I have gone to physical therapy 12 times now and it is feeling alot better not normal just better! My insurance would be willing to pay someone to come to my home and help out with daily needs like the cooking, laundry, vaccuum, changing bedding etc. My doctor said no, I asked for reasonable help because I could not do those basic things. I have a 16 year old daughter and a soon to be ex-husband in the house, who does nothing except make more work for me! I needed help for the first week and several times during the month of April at $20.00 per day. Who are you going to help you for $20.00 a day except family? I mean vaccuum one day and do laundry another! How does my doctor have the right to tell me I didnt need help through out the month of April. I do not have the luxury of a cleaning lady but I do have a large home! I wonder how much my surgeons wife pays his cleaning lady while shes at the mall shopping and spending the money he gets from doing all the surgeries? All of a sudden doctors are trying to save the insurance companies any unnecessay expenses! Give me a break!

lou hebert

30 Apr 2010, 08:33

I had my left knee scoped two weeks ago for a meniscus tear I suffered at work back in January. I wish I could be one of the happy success stories, but I am not. I am 60 and still experiencing considerable pain. It seemed that everything was going well after the surgery, but then four days later, I developed two blood clots in my left calf. Now I have the added burden and anxiety of a potential pulmonary embolism to deal with. I am now on a cocktail of cuomadin and pain killers and the knee keeps filling with fluid and blood, which I have been getting drained off to relieve the pressure. My doc keep telling me this will all be history very soon, but in the meantime, I just stay glued to the recliner and wait it out.

lou

Marilyn G.

30 Apr 2010, 01:22

Three months ago I tore the meniscus in my left knee in two places while lifting heavy things out of the car trunk. I had to resort to wearing a brace on that knee when up and walking, shopping, and just doing small things around the house. It felt unsteady and made a loud popping noise, plus it was tender. I had a MRI done the end of March 2010, showing the two tears. Surgery was scheduled and on April 13, 2010 I had arthroscopic surgery done under general anesthesia. I was awake within 1 and 1/2 hours, and home in the middle of the afternoon. I never felt one bit of pain! I did not take any pain meds, did not have to use crutches or a walker, and resumed full use of it within 24 hours. The day after surgery I was walking unaided, working in my garden, able to go up and down stairs and still had no pain. On the 28th I returned to see the surgeon and got the stitches taken out. He said as long as I continued to walk and not baby the leg I would do well and did not need physical therapy. The only thing I did following surgery was to elevate that leg while resting and I put ice on it the first two days. I was very scared of this surgery, but it went perfectly and I have never any pain or discomfort since that day. This surgery was done at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, IL, by Dr. Khaled Saleh.

Daisy

20 Apr 2010, 12:01

I fell on my job in October 2009. I attended the Dr. and Physical Therapy from December up until now. Also I have seen an Orthopedic physician, I can say as long as I am taking the celebrex it helps. I can stop taking them within four days the pain is back again. I had a MRI ( partial tear in rotatory cuff) This is very painful. I cannot use a broom to sweep my floor. I am not sure if I am hurting because of osteoarthritis or what. I hurt.The Othopedic physician mention athroscopis surgery. I don't know what to do. Most of my pain is between my shoulder and elbow, even sometime my neck hurt. Please give me some advice. Thanks.

Annie

15 Apr 2010, 14:21

I have had laparoscopic knee surgery performed on both knees 5 times over many years. First, at age 24 for a left badly torn lateral meniscus from an acute sports related injury(there was some ACL damage but not repaired). I had great results and returned within a year to a fully active lifestyle.The right knee was injured in a trip/fall at the age of 30 resulted in torn medial and lateral meniscus,a torn anterior and lateral collateral ligaments, and of couse fluid collection in the joint. A longer recovery period after laparoscopic surgery but again, excellent results.When my left knee began to get painful and swollen at age 42, an MRI revealed "moderate premature osteoatrthritis", with fluid accumulation in both knees, the L > than R. Laparoscopic surgery for cleaning smoothing and fluid removal was done on the left. A year later, the same on the R. Both with excellent return to pain free function within a short time. I am now 56 and other than an occassional over use soreness, I have had 14 years painfree and with good function. So, while this study reports a negative view of laparoscopic treatment for osteoarthritis, I hope this doesnt remove it as a patient choice becuase clearly SOME of us do have very good long term benefit.

Carla

13 Apr 2010, 01:40

I had arthroscopic surgery 2 1/2 weeks ago.

I had torn cartilage and arthritis. I am in much more pain now than before. Before the surgery In had pain just at one side of my knee, now its at both sides and around the back of my knee. I feel totally let down by my surgeon, I know they cant work miracles, but since looking on the internet for answers I have come across so many people who have had this procedure and are in more pain now than before. I have always been quiet when I am in his office I go see hem in a couple of months and beleive me when I go I will be letting him have it!!!!!

John

12 Apr 2010, 19:10

I had arthroscopic surgery on my left knee in Sept 2009. The surgery went well and I was back to work in a week. I felt pretty good overall but I was cautious not to go full speed. I was simplying walking in my kitchen around Christmas and felt a twinge followed by a sharp pain. The next two weeks the knee was swollen and sore and I was limpping. I got a cortisone shot and a few weeks later things were ok. But then in March I once again felt a twinge this time while raking grass, noting too streuous. Two more weeks of a swollen knee and throbbing pain. I had my knee drained and another cortisone shot. I need another MRI because to see what's going on in the knee. I'm getting very frustrated. At 39 years old I am dreading the possibility of a knee replacement in the near future.

Nathan Enyart

08 Mar 2010, 04:26

I had knee surgery in 1993 on my right knee.
Messed it up on a structure fire. a year later had the left one done Horse took care of it for me. Now my right knee is so painful most of the time. On the outside of the knee right beside the knee cap I get a big knot when the swelling happens this puts me in very severe pain. When the knot is not there it is not so bad. I am getting ready to get back on a Fire Dept. So I have to do something.

Shirley Ann

28 Feb 2010, 19:59

Dear folks. First time I post anything.I am greatful I've read your comments.I'm 58. For the past 3 years, my left knee swells on and off especially after a fall or a stretch. It also swells after I lift somewhat heavy.Innitially came from an injury.Have little to no pain(thank God!)but stiffness and swelling.I had a meniscus tear on my right kenee in my 20's. Was sent to surgery by many, but instead I rested (about 1 month) did a lot of physio therapy. Suffered on and off about 1 year. The knee is perfect now.I believe that in my 50's the healing will not occur the same way, but I'll lose some weight,change my diet, give up skying for good, wear a good brace and do some therapy again.I'll post hwo I feel in about three months. Good Cheer! God Bless!

Lisa Nevels

22 Feb 2010, 22:59

I had arthrosopic surgery nearly 7 years ago too remove bad cartilage in my right knee. The surgery went fine and in 3 or 4 days I was walking with some pain. I had arthritis in the right knee. On some pain medication but still unable when knee gets tired to go up stairs. In the morning the knee is stiff and I will usually get an ice-pack and put on it for at least 20 minutes before attempting to walk. I will not have it again because I probably will not be able to walk. The right knee does not bend like the left knee does. I am 56 years old. I will not do it again.

Cyndi

14 Feb 2010, 00:34

I wish I read some of the comments on here earlier.
I had my right knee scoped in December 8 weeks now, still bothering me.
Found out that I have arthritis, whippee! No real surprise though...sports and age, what are you to do?
Anyways, I just had my left knee done, it's 6 days post op and I still can hardly walk. When the right knee was done, I got an infection, I thought this delayed the recovery, but now with the left and it's definitely taking longer to get out of bed , I'm wishing I didn't go through with the surgery.
I had the left done about 8 yrs ago, remember it too was very painful afterwards, but eventually the pain went away and I felt better than ever. This time, not so sure what the out come is going to be...?
Still can't bend the right knee fully, still difficult going up and down stairs (before this recent surgery on my left) there was no way in.....that I could kneel on it.
Now I lie here praying for the throbbing to stop!
Did I make a mistake? I hope not. I have to believe that all will be better soon, better than before would be nice.
But I am scared, that this might of been the biggest mistake, any body have a similar outcome?
I think from now on, if I have knee pain, I try for a cortisone shot vs. surgery.
If you have arthritis, the knee will probably never fully recover.
The joy of getting older. yeah!

Angela

28 Jan 2010, 23:05

I began with sore knees. I had arthroscopic surgery four months ago on both knees at the same time which I regret. X ray before surgery was "normal," no signs of arthritis. After the surgery, now I have osteoarthritis in both knees because, in cleaning away the "junk," the surgeon cut the cartilage. In removing it along with the junk, the bones now rub together causing Arthritis. When I walk, both knees snap, pop, click, and crack causing much more pain than I ever began with and now they want to do full or partial knee surgery which requires metal and plastic. If you've pain in your knees, try cortisone shots instead of a surgery which most people will tell you won't do anything but exacerbate your problem.

Gloria Cuellar

19 Jan 2010, 06:06

I also had arthroscopic surgery 8 weeks ago and my knee is worse now than it was before the surgery.The reason I had the surgery was because of torn ligaments according to the doctor. He told me that I had very little arthritis if any. I can not do anything without pain medication,I just don't know what to do.

stacy

10 Dec 2009, 23:17

I am 31. I have fallen several times. The worse was a little while ago, I don't remember it, but wound up on the concrete garage floor, On both knees. My hands weren't hurt, they didn't really catch me. I was temp paralized in that position. I couldn't walk for days. I then fell again in the yard with my kids. I decided to have the surgery. first the right, then the left. I was walking without the use of anything within a week with the right. I am now 4wks out with my left & I can barely walk at times. They said my right was torn & the left was Plica syndrome. I have been in therapy now for 3wks. My bend is better, but I still have a 5degree bend, a walk with a severe limp.
I have mixed emotions, the right did so well. My left however is worse than before. The pain is unbearable at times & I can't get up from sitting easily.
I have 2 young children, making it hard for me to do things with them.
I have to return to work where I am on my feet constantly, I don't sit a minute literally.
I think I would definetely do more research before having anything like this done again.

Marie

01 Dec 2009, 13:25

I had arthroscopic surgery 8 weeks ago and am much worse off than before. I have more pain and walk with a serious limp, even if I use a cane. I would say it depends on age and the reason for the surgery. If you are under 35 you are probably a better candidate than if you are older. I would not do my surgery again and I had the same knee scoped 25 years ago and was back to normal in a few days.

Dawn

13 Oct 2009, 18:49

I had meniscus repair 6 weeks ago too and I am in more pain than when I started. I don't think I would do it again.

pete

13 Oct 2009, 16:10

I had arthroscpic surgery 6 weeks ago and i have worse pain todaya1 i would think twice before doing it again

Sue Moss

11 Oct 2009, 07:58

I had arthroscopic surgery about 6 years ago for arthritis in my right knee. It worked so well after a while I forgot which knee I had surgery on. Five days ago I had surgery on my left knee for the same problem and I fully expect the same results. I think the results depend on each individuals condition and the procedure is worth trying.

Barbara

02 Jul 2009, 09:30

I had arthroscopic surgery 6 days ago to remove the "cruchies" in my knee and also to trim a torn meniscus.
Before my surgery I had a 10 degree bend in my knee and three days after the surgery I had a 2 degree bend. That alone is enough for me to rcommend the surgery. I will walk straighter and without a limp for the first time in several years.
I'm still healing and a little sore but hopeful for a relief in knee pain for the first time in years.

kristi

17 Jun 2009, 23:20

I had arthroscopic surgery to replace my ACL and 2 other ligaments as well that I tore Monday; it's only my second day home and I can already tell you that my leg feels better. Yes I know I'm on pain medicine, but it hurts less walking with just having surgery than it did when I was walking without it. If your dr. recommends it, I suggest you get it. My Dr. also found that he needed to clean up some torn cartilage while he was in there. It helps. It'll be painful for a while but from what I can tell now--totally worth it.
http://igotnewpartsinmyknee.blogspot.com

shelia jenkins

12 Jun 2009, 15:25

I had arthroscopic surgery 3 years agoand my knee is worse now than it was before the surgery. I have been to five ortho. doctors's
none of them can tell me what's wrong. I was referred to sa specialist just a few weeks ago. Hopefully, he has an answer for me. I'm
also needing surgery again.

Cody

05 Jun 2009, 09:23

i had the arthroscopic surgery 2 weeks ago and my knee has been feeling much better anyone who thinks they need the surgery and their doctor recomends the surgery i would recomend you to go with the procedure

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Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Little Help for Arthritis

Study finds common procedure may not help painful knees

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