Tai Chi and Knee Replacement, a joyous occasion

by Barbara Keeble-Devlin
(Berwick tai chi student)

Eighteen months ago I was told by an orthopedic surgeon that I needed two knee replacements as both knee joints were sadly quite arthritic and my mobility and capacity to enjoy walking had been compromised by severe and painful swelling. I could not walk up and down stairs and had started to cease the activities that I previously enjoyed like walking the dogs.

I sort a second opinion that upheld the previous decision. The second surgeon suggested passive exercise (like Tai Chi) and additional natural additives. After only one year of weekly Tai Chi I have regained mobility
and can now walk without pain. I travel to the city two days a week and had previously needed to use the lift at Parliament station. I set a personal goal to be able to walk up and down the quite steep stairs rather than take the lift. I have not used the lift for six months now.

At a review with the orthopedic surgeon, he was surprised at the regained mobility and said he could only attribute this to the benefits of Tai Chi. While marathons are not a current goal, having the mobility to enjoy life and feel independent with travel is a wonderful achievement
for me. We all set our own personal goals in life and no matter how small the achievement may seem reaching a goal is a joyous occasion.