Getting all the pretests done before surgery...

I have severe osteoarthritis in both hips and both knees. I wonder if most of the pain will go away once I start dropping the pounds. I know the osteoarthritis itself will not go away. Walking/exercising is going to be a problem too and I need to do that to get the pounds off quicker. Anyone out there with a similar problem? Any thoughts?

I will be completely honest with you. When i had my surgery i thought it would fix the my knees hurting and back hurting. Boy was i wrong. I have days that they both kill me then other days it dont bother me. My back kills me more now then before. They told me that it is cuz my back is still weak from when i was so heavy. But funny thing noone has told me how to make it strong again. so i have asked friends and people on here and come up with some ideas. But i do have bad days and i have good days also......lynda

Cheryl: I had joint pain prior to surgery. It has definitely improved alot, with weight loss. You might consider an elliptical machine, it is supposed to be better for joints, and is a great work out. Also, swimming would be a good work out, and easy on the joints. You might try some weight training too. It would help strengthen muscles ect. Exercise is supposed to be beneficial to arthritis sufferers. Ask your DR too, for ideas. Best of luck, DeeAnn R.

The reason I first looked into this surgery, was to avoid being in a wheelchair. I have NO cartillage in either knee. I've been on a oxycodone for pain for the past year with them. I had my panni on December 14, and am off the pain meds (except for Tylenol). Spring, and walking everyday will be the real test. The extra 16 pounds that I had hanging seemed to be the final straw, as far as my knees are concered. Still have stiff days, but not nearly as bad as they were. Good luck in your journey! Jeri H.

Yeah, I have to agree that my knees got worse, not better. I attribute it to getting more exercise. I am making them work more, just not as hard. My back has improved a bunch though. I think it's because I work hard on my abs when I exercise. If those muscles are stronger the back will improve. Dixie

Morning Cheryl, I have arthritis in my hip that made walking next to impossible & I also have fibromyalgia. I have found since losing weight the arthritis has improved at least now I can walk without being in a lot of pain. As for the fibro have my up & down days. Everyone is different, hopefully your pain will let up where you can be comfortable. Good Luck & keep us posted Carolyn