Dear nycsep---you evidently misread my blog---I've only had ONE total knee replacement (and recently hiked over 5 miles across sanddunes to photograph elephant seals)--- (I'm a professional photo-journalist)! However, I've also had both hips replaced, 1 ankle, and even several joints replaced, removed and/or artificial joints installed in both feet. Most people won't believe me when I tell them how much ortho surgery I've had---I DO NOT EVEN WALK WITH A LIMP!!!!!

---but admittedkly have gone through some tough surgeries, a lot of pain as well as painful physical therapy.  Please don't let anyone dissuade you---you CAN do it if you want it badly enough!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

pattye

Dear nycsep---I had the series of Synvisc injections in my right knee last Fall before leaving for my work in Africa (I photograph, live, and do volunteer work several months a year in East Africa).  When my surgeon gave me the shots, he admitted that he didn't if they would help for 7 days, 7 weeks, or longer---amazingly, I was able to work in Africa almost 7 MONTHS before returning to the US for the total knee replacement surgery!!! Yes, I do have the pain of any patient with OA, but for me, I find that helping others helps me handle the situation a little better.  Please keep in touch---it sounds as if you are doing the right thing--by building your strength, you should be able to recover far more quickly from the eventual surgery.  By the way, my first surgery for OA was 12 years ago, and I'm now 67---and doing quite well, thank you!!!