I am posting this TR for those of you who can relate to knee issues. My last trip to Whitney, several weeks ago, was my sixth. However, it was without doubt the one I am most proud of, having had a total knee replacement last November 27. My limitations included no high impact sports, and I can't (ever)carry more than 40 pounds. I started with my usual loop through Toulomne Meadows, covering some 10 miles day hiking. Stopped at Mt. Dana, got about 2 miles up and decided to come back down, due to my knee. I then spent several days at Onion Valley campground where I made several day trips to the pass and beyond. Sept 1 I hit the Whitney main trail about 2:00am. It was a moonless night with an incredibly black sky. I paced my self, carefully place my right foot to make sure each step was steady. I made Trail Crest at app. 8:00am. I decided not to go to the summit as I had to safey get back down to the Portal. My total trip from start to finish covered 60 miles, so my message is: There is life after a total knee replacement!! What was special was that the healing process is 9 months. Sept. 1 ( my date with Whitney) just happened to be the day after the 9 month healing process!! Total distance I hiked was over 60 miles!!!! If you are considering a TKR, you need to be in the best shape you can PRIOR to the surgery. (I worked out hard for two months prior to my surgery.) You MUST listen to your physical therapist and do as they say!! Hats off to those folks like Moosie who, when listened to, can get you back to doing almost everything you want after the TKR. I have been cleared by my doctor for downhill skiing, not that I am a skier. But I will be snowshoeing this winter, cross country skiing, and best of all, putting in for another permit for Whitney next year. During my two months of rehab I kept reading this board, as I have been doing for years. The comments and TR's kept me focused on what was important to me: to get back to the things I love. On my way down Mt. Whitney I got to meet the great Bob R. We had a great conversation, which was the icing on my cake!! Happy and safe hiking.
bobd
