Knee replacement for competitive 1.20 Rider?

[event2sj]

I know there have been several threads about riding after knee replacement surgery, but I was hoping anyone with experience (either personal or anecdotal) might take a few moments to comment.

I am 51, fit and riding a very full show schedule- about 8-10 shows/year. I show jump in the Level 5’s and event at the 2* level with two different and amazing horses. I am blessed to be in great health except for one knee which was injured in a sports accident when I was 15.

Like others, I have been putting off knee replacement for as long as possible, but chronic pain is necessitating surgery sooner than later. I know there have been previous posts from riders with knee replacements who post-op appear to ride for pleasure- maybe trail riding or just for fun. But I haven’t seen any posts from competitive riders with knee replacements. I am not a GP rider, but there probably are some riders at a very high level- or even just competitive 1.30/1.20 riders- who have had knee replacements and tried to continue their careers.

I’m curious how a) it has affected your riding/competitiveness and b) has anyone had to have a revision (do-over) surgery as a result of riding?

[Skippity]

Gary Stevens had his knee replaced last year. It hasn’t affected his abilities to compete as one of the nation’s top jockeys.
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/horses/triple/derby/2015/04/29/kentucky-derby-rebuilt-knee-stevens-stronger/26595653/

Sorry you have to deal with it.

[sunkistbey]

My husband is 68 and has his knee replaced last February. He is back to riding and showing his cutting horse. He was off for a month and a half and eased into riding, but now he’s back to normal.
Do your PT and remember that you will be doing it for the rest of your life. Good luck!

[AKB]

I think Phyllis Dawson had a knee replacement.

[Foxglove]

Not a show person but I fox hunt first flight every Sunday Sept-April on two replaced knees --I do wear polo knee guards to protect against trees and kicks.

Foxglove

[Auburn]

I am right there with you. I have been getting by on OrthoVisc injections for the past 3 years. They no longer work.

The odd thing is that my left knee is bone on bone. My right knee has a bit of space left, but it hurts more than my left. Go figure? I am speaking with several Ortho Docs, because I am an Eventer, who wants to continue eventing.

I will need an immunologist, because I have Sarcoidosis, too. I just turned 63. I was hoping to outlast my knees, but can hardly walk right now, so will be getting them done. :o

OP, Good luck with your operation. I hope that your surgery goes well!