Post surgery 10+ years, still have trouble, need advice.

[LJW]

I started PT for knee problems in 1994-95. This didn't seem to help, so I had what turned out to be a reconstructive surgery on my knees to realign and create track for knee caps in 1996-97. Hardware soon came loose in left leg and had to redo, infection followed, and had large amount of tissue removed. Long story short I was in PT for months after surgeries. Right leg healed and seems structurally stable, though often aches and gets strained from over use compensating for left.

Left leg stays in pain, though tolerable. It often buckles under me or causes me to stagger. I still can't lead with left up steps, and it leaves me mobile but quite awkward.

I have tried and failed several times to work with trainers in gyms to help me regain some strength and more stable mobility. The problem is, they don't seem to listen, understand, or care about the state of my legs and how very limited movement is. I simply cannot do any type of lunge, or even use any cardio machines that force my feet in a straight flat position which in turn affects my knee. My feet are turned in as well and any other stance is unnatural and can be painful to me.

The trainers just tell me to get on this or that machine, which I am not capable of at this point. I am here asking where I can go for real help. How do I find a trainer who understands the disabling condition of my legs and how to start from the very beginning stages to help me work up to a more normal routine? Take away squats, lunges, and machines. What is the most effective movement I can do to help recondition my legs and knees?

Any advice appreciated.
LJW

[bignastyPT]

My best suggestion:

Go to apta.org
Go to: find a PT
Search based on your Zip Code
Find a PT who is board certified in orthopedics in your area
Call them up and discuss your knee

Hope this helps. You'll have much better results talking to someone in person.

Regards,

[physiocare]

I second Bignasty's advice. In what state are you residing in sir? Maybe I could help you find a directory for your state's available professional PT's to help you in coming up with a conclusive answer and the right plan of care.