The Beginning

I am a 49 year old married woman, planning for my second knee replacement. I suffer from Osteoarthritis(OA), but am in otherwise good health. I believe that my knee situation is a result of several factors: I have a family history of OA; I participated in many activities during my youth that were tough on my knees; and I am overweight. I was probably not more than 30 years old when I was first diagnosed with joint deterioration.

I met with the surgeon today, and my surgery is scheduled for late November. I imagine that the Holiday season will somewhat different than 'usual', but it's a slower time for me at work, so the surgery has been scheduled and I'll have plenty of knitting time.

Prior to making the decision to have surgery, I received several rounds of steriod injections and a round of lubricant injections. The steroid injections have given me limited relief, but the lubricant injections provided no comfort. Pretty much everyone else that I know who has had lubricant injections has had extended pain relief, so I believe that everyone's situation is different and what is right for me, may not be right for anyone else.

I had my right knee replaced in 2007. It made a significant improvement in my quality of life. Please understand that it wasn't all easy, but I'm certainly glad I did it. However, I have regretted not blogging about it at the time. So as I embark on the replacement and rehabilitation of my left knee, I am committed to doccument the experience.