Question: Hi - I am post fractured left knee patella almost 4 months and still having problems. I had surgery on 13.4.2013 and discharged the next day with rigid brace to leave on for 6 weeks. At first Orth appt, my knee and ankle were still swollen and everytime I stood up, my whole leg would turn blue..I was told to continue with brace and weightbear as much as possible. Shown how to use crutches and given some pt exs to do. At 2nd Orth appt, 6 weeks later, registrar was concerned and booked me for an MUA next day. They achieved full ROM in MUA and I was placed on CPM overnight achieving 90 deg. Next day continued CPM but very very painful, so reduced to 80 deg - given PT exercises, mainly straight leg raises, XXXXXXX squats, knee bends sitting on chair.....never reached 90 deg at the most. Discharged with exercises but leg still very stiff and painful. 3rd Orth appt seen by actual surgeon who was concerned that I was still using crutches, but wasnt too concerned and said to continue with exercises and try to get off crutches and to see him in 3 months time (which was from 2.5 weeks ago) when the wire will be removed. He says once removed my ROM should be easier to achieve.

But now almost 4 mths post surgery my ROM is zero, my leg and foot still turn blue when I stand and - ankle always swells when I stand, leg also feels "heavy", muscle wasting in calf still prevalent and i am scared of having to have this done all over again. I visited my GP yesterday who was very concerned, said there could be infection in the knee as it felt warm, but it has always felt that way. I should note however, that attending pt sessions is difficult for me as I cannot drive and my husband often works away - and we need the money as I have lost my job because of this injury. We live in Queensland Australia.

Hello Dr Tayal

Thanks for your answer which has made me feel so much better but should I not be concerned especially at this stage about walking unaided, the stiffness and feeling heaviness and a tight "band" around my knee, or is it the tension band that is causing that?

Thanks
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