Knees' on the mend ..

Greetings Everyone!

Today was a challenge for Ernie.  He was introduced to his first physical therapy session and had the opportunity to try out his new knees -- to see what they feel like.  The first time he walked this morning - it took a lot out of him - baby steps and sheer determination to 'peg-leg walk' about 50 feet. By the time he returned to his bed - he was sweating from head to toe - as though he had run a marathon in less than two hours!

In the afternoon, Ernie had his second physical therapy session.  It was much easier for him and he was able to slowly walk half-way around the orthopedic ward.  As with all knee replacements, he will need to use a walker for a few weeks.  One of Ernie's best assets is his upper body strength -- which he'll need to use a lot of to support his body. 

The man behind Ernie - is the physical therapist - he's holding onto the orange belt strapped around Ernie. 

The physical therapist was quite pleased that Ernie was able to get up and move about - it seems that not everyone who has had a double knee replacement can stand and walk the second day. 

Well, this is what Ernie's knees look like in the hospital - all bandaged up.  His legs are resting on a 'passive motion machine' that slowly moves back and forth - like he's on a bicycle.  The machine is used to reduce the chance of getting blood clots, keeps the ligaments from 'binding' and to reduce scare tissue.  Ernie will need to use the passive motion machine for about three weeks.

The white booties are 'compression boots' - they gently squeeze Ernie's feet then, relax - they are another device to reduce blood clotting.

In the above photo - Ernie is speaking on the phone to his son - with his 'self-administering' pain machine by his side.  He's on some pretty strong meds for pain - the nurses use a key to open and close the machine, and some code to regulate the dosage and frequency.  With all the pain meds he's taking - Ernie will doze off in the middle of a conversation - or forget what he was talking about.  He's still on a clear liquid diet - because the meds make him nauseated and dizzy at times - one med even makes him itch.  Some of the stuff he tells me is funny - like - "... you know they have me on heroin."

Tomorrow, he will be taken off of the self-administer pain machine - and be given pain meds orally.  He'll also be able to take his first shower.  He may come home as well - but we are not sure.  He still has to do the stairs in physical therapy and be free of the dizzy spells.  So we will see.

I'm prepared for Ernie to return home.  I've done all the grocery shopping, stocked up on items and obtained the items the doctor told me to have on hand.  Home by the way, is to my brothers' condo here in Anchorage -- because we cannot return to our cabin until after break-up. 

Again, thanks to each you for your concern, support and calls.  I'll keep you posted.