Support, Stories & Strength for Your Journey

When I went through my first knee replacement, I spent more days than I’d like to admit with a “why bother” attitude. I remember asking myself, will any of this even matter? And if you’ve been there too, let me remind you that these feelings are valid. Pain has a sneaky way of clouding our thoughts and making us doubt the progress we’re making.

If you've recently had knee replacement surgery (or are preparing for one), there’s one important piece of advice you may not hear often: your body needs 400 extra calories a day post-op! When my physical therapist told me this, I was honestly surprised—but it makes perfect sense. During recovery, your body works hard...

Recovering from knee replacement surgery requires more than just physical therapy and rest—it requires fueling your body with the right foods. The nutrients you take in can speed up tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and give your body the energy it needs to heal. Have you ever considered food to help your healing process? Ya, I didn't either....until I tried it! Let’s dive into how specific foods and nutrients can fast-track your recovery and what to avoid that might slow you down.

I’ll be honest, keeping up with my water intake isn’t always easy. We all know it’s crucial, especially when you're recovering from surgery, particularly knee replacement or just trying to feel your best. Hydration helps with recovery, reduces inflammation, and keeps your energy levels up, (You can read my blog about hydration post knee replacement HERE). But drinking enough water doesn’t have to be boring or feel like a chore. I’ve discovered some unique and fun ways to stay on top of hydration—and I’d love for you to try them out!

This surgery is a significant event that requires proper care and attention to ensure a smooth recovery process. One often overlooked yet essential element in this adventure is good, old-fashioned water. Hydration plays a crucial role in promoting healing after surgery, offering a range of benefits for the body's recovery. And, yes, I did have to force myself to drink enough water post-op! Here are 10 ways water can aid in the post-surgery healing process:

The throbbing pain, the limitations, the dependence – it's no surprise that frustration can simmer during knee replacement recovery. You envisioned a smooth path back to your active life, but reality feels more like an obstacle course. Here's the thing: frustration is normal. But letting it simmer can hinder your progress. So, let's talk about conquering that frustration hump and getting back on track to a stronger, more mobile you.

We've all been through the battle – the throbbing pain, the stiff joint, the struggle to get that leg up where it needs to be. But fear not, because regaining knee flexion (bend) is absolutely crucial for a smooth recovery and a return to your active life. Why Does Your Bend Matters? Think about your daily activities – walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of a car. All these movements require a good range of knee flexion. Here's how good knee bend benefits you:

Pain science strikes again!First, are you post op and having pain in other places of your body (think hip and back)? How about your foot or ankle?Well, a short story ensues… about 7 weeks into

This knee (right) is rehabbing quite different than my left.It’s seeming, a beautiful adventure is in process…The way I see it, the new guy, Ti, just moved in and the neighbors (quad, glutes, IT band, calf, and foot) are none too happy.It seems, Ti, parks in the street when he’s not supposed to (acute pain) and he leaves his trash can at the street for days (pain behind the knee). Don’t even get me started on the constant dog barking (ache) in his backyard.

I just want to get back to normal!How many times have you said that since your knee replacement? I know I did. Then I had a huge perspective shift.What if my knee replacement was an actual level up? What if all this was happening so I had the chance to reinvent myself? That thought got me wondering how many other shifts I could make if I stopped trying to "get back to normal"The fact is nothing is normal post knee replacement. Not your bathroom visits, showers (or bath), or even the way you get yourself ready each day. Who knows, maybe you aren't getting yourself ready each day. God knows there were days when I didn't have PT that I didn't do much more than use the restroom and do my heel slides.