Q:
I recently read about depression after knee replacement. Is this a common occurrence? Answered by
Louis Meeks M.D.
A:
In regard to depression after knee replacement surgery, I am not aware of any syndrome such as post arthroplasty depressive reaction. The procedure in and by itself should not cause depression any more than any major surgical procedure.
Q:
I am an active person and constantly on the go. I am recovering from an ACL reconstruction and getting very down. I am not used to being this inactive, are there any exercises that I can do that will not threaten a complete recovery? Answered by
Louis Meeks M.D.
A:
During the reconditioning following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, one can continue with cross-training such as upper extremity programs, swimming, stationary bicycle, elliptical bicycle and the program that is recommended to you by your physical therapist or athletic trainer.
Q:
I used to run and that is how I relieve the stress in my life. I was recently diagnosed with articular cartilage damage and told not to run. That is a source of joy in my life. I am very depressed when I think about a future without running; will I ever be able to run again? Answered by
Louis Meeks M.D.
A:
You should entertain the idea of “wogging.” That is where you walk/jog/walk. If you are experiencing overuse anterior knee pain, the first rule is to rest, ice and apply compression. Once the inflammatory reaction subsides, you can ease back into your running program. Be sure that you thoroughly analyze your situation to figure out the training error that is implicated with your overuse syndrome. Eighty percent of injuries related to running are in fact errors in training.
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