At a recent symposium presented at the 19th Annual Association of Hip and Knee surgeons in Dallas Texas, November 2009, a discussion by pain management experts highlighted the importance of the multimodal pain management system that includes preoperative administration of acetaminophen, oral antiinflammatory medications, as well as pain medication, use of spinal anesthetic and local blocks and postoperative oral pain management significantly decreases pain, improves patient mobility, and leads to an enhanced clinical experience following joint replacement. At Valley Medical Center we have been using a multimodal pain management system for over five years and our patient satisfaction, low complication rate, and rapid mobilization and discharge home are evidence of the success of this pain management program. By managing pain appropriately, we are able to get our patient’s up and moving. We have 85% of our patient’s discharged home after joint replacement. If you have questions about this contact your surgeon regarding management of postoperative pain.
Dr. Barrett, this is a former patient, Cathy Coleman, who had a total knee replacement on November 10, 2009. On May 6, 2010, my husband and I went on the REI Hike Ireland Tour. My knee did great. We hiked several miles each day and I had absolutely no problems. The people in the group could hardly believe I had a knee replacement less them 6 months ago.
I did take pictures and you are welcome to use them as you like. Bob’s flickr address is
http://www.flickr.com/photos/0321recon/
On this site you will see a box labeled Cathy and her new Knee. Those are pictures of me hiking, however you are welcome to look and take whatever you like.
Thank you for giving me the chance to hike again without pain. YAHOO! It is a fantastic feeling.
Regards,
Cathy Coleman