[OCD1972]

I have arthritis in my neck, back and knees. The knees are the worst. An orthopedic doctor said I was a candidate for knee replacement quite a few years ago. I would have it done except I'm about 100 pounds over weight due to a necessary psych med I have to take - thank you zyprexa. I also have poor circulation in my right leg which has the most knee pain. I'm so afraid that if I have the surgery I'll end up worse than I am already. I used to love to go for walks but now I walk as little as possible. When I have to go to the grocery store to buy my groceries I take an NSAID several hours before and then take my cart since I don't have a car. That helps but because I take an SSRI antidepressant I can't take the NSAID very often. The 2 meds aren't supposed to be taken together long term. I'm only 60 and I feel so old and limited. If I'm going by bus to meet a friend for a meal I take my walker which has a seat. I swear my psych meds are saving me but they're killing me. Has anyone who is obese had successful knee replacement surgery?? I tried a cortisone shot which worked great but only for 2 weeks and I tried the series of 3 hyaluronic shots which did nothing.

[sarahsweets]

I think you should consider it regardless of your weight. You will be able to take physical therapy as your heal and when you get to a point where the pain is less then maybe you will be able to walk more and move towards your weight loss goals. Have you ever considered gastric bypass or is your weight not related to what you eat and purely related to the med? I had GP 10 years ago and have managed to keep all but 15lbs off. It was the best thing I ever did for myself.

[Travelinglady]

I don't think weight is an issue in knee replacement. My doc says I need a knee replacement and I'm overweight.