Hip Replacement Recovery: What to Expect, Timelines, Outcomes
87Any surgery brings its worries but hip operations are routine and the techniques are well tested. Around 300,000 operations were performed last year in the US, alone. There is a very low rate of complications and hip replacement recovery is usually very good. For many people, a return to simple activities like walking a dog without pain are the gift of a lifetime.
As long as you have chosen a reputable hospital you should be able to let your medical team conduct your aftercare with full confidence. They know what is normal and expected during recovery and what is not. As long as you keep them fully informed of how you feel, they can take the best steps to reassure you or tackle any problems.
Hip Replacement Recovery Forum
There is a forum at the bottom of this page with over 1000 contributions from all kinds of people. If you are looking for very specific information about aspects of recovery, it is a great resource. Many people also benefit from the support that it offers,
The Remarkable Improvements for one man who had both Hips Replaced
Some Decisions to be made before Surgery.
Minimally invasive hip surgery or standard? Minimally invasive surgery is quicker, causes less bleeding and trauma and offers quicker recovery time. It is a relatively new procedure so it might be worth enquiring how many times your surgeon has operated in this way.
Epidural or General Anesthesia? Some people are worried by the very small chance of paralysis from an epidural. Others hate the grogginess of waking from general anesthesia and the constipation that follows.
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Typical Hip Replacement Recovery Timeline
- The operation. This takes up to 3 hours.
- You will be monitored in a recovery room until you wake up.
- Once you are awake and ready to move, you will be taken to your hospital room.
- From the first day after surgery until you leave hospital, a physical therapist will introduce you to various exercises to speed up a return to full mobility in your hip.
- Returning home- you can travel in a normal car, though you will need to keep your leg straight. Some people with smaller cars remove the front passenger seat of their car and sit in back. Usually this isn't necessary. Your nurse can advise.
- After you return home (usually between one and three days after the operation) a physical therapist will work with you 3 or 4 times a week.
- Staples closing the incision (or incisions) will be removed after 14 days.
- You will be encouraged to gradually build up the amount of exercise as the weeks pass, though it is important to avoid falling and stairs will be a problem without the help of crutches or a walker.
- You can start driving again about six weeks after the operation unless you are still using pain medication.
- Follow up visits to your surgeon are typically at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months.
Full Recovery
For many people, their new hip is a joy to use after only three months. They can walk long distances, cycle and even hike up mountains. For others, recovery might take longer- perhaps even a full year. This depends on many factors like pre-operation fitness, age, weight, discipline in following exercises routines etc. Certainly, the more closely you follow medical advise and the more you talk to your doctor, the more likely you will recover at an optimal rate.
Lifetime of Replacement Hip
Technology is always advancing and hip replacements are lasting longer and longer. A recent study found that the majority of hip replacements installed twenty five years ago are still fully functional. The life time of new prosthetics is expected to be even longer.
Complications of Hip Replacement Surgery
Blood clots in the leg need to be carefully managed by the medical team with medication and special stockings.
About 2 percent of patients will suffer a serious infection. This usually results from bacteria entering the body after the operation, sometimes from dental work or sometimes from skin or urinary infections. Any dental work should be preceded by a course of antibiotics.
Things Patients find most difficult after Surgery
Shortly after surgery
- A burning sensation around the area of the incision. This can be treated with icepacks. The incision area should be kept dry, though.
- During sleep you shouldn’t cross the operated leg over the 'center line' of the body for a few weeks to avoid stressing the muscles and ligaments of the hip. Use plenty of pillows to support the leg comfortably and keep it in place.
- Pain in areas around the hip not previously affected. Trauma to various tissues during surgery can result in temporary pain- always mention any discomfort to your doctor.
- Clunking sounds from the prosthetic. In the first few months after surgery, the muscles that normally keep the hip joint tightly in place may be too weak. This can cause partial separation of the ball and socket, resulting in strange sounds. These should disappear with time. If there is any pain, talk to a doctor as soon as possible.
- Emotional impacts. Some people have unrealistic expectations of the amount of time it will take to recover. They feel bad that they are letting people at work or home down or that they are a burden afer the operation. There are some great, candid discussions in the forums linked to below. Thinking- and talking- issues like this through before your operation could save a lot of upset.
After a few months
Stiffness after sitting down for a while, which might mean using a stick to start walking.
Sudden jarring of the foot (produced by jumping say) can cause pain
The joint may squeak during prolonged exercise.
Hip replacement recovery after a year or so
The vast majority of people simply forget they have ever had a hip replacement.
Other Forums
There are many forums dedicated to helping people exchange experiences and information about hip replacement recovery. The forum on this page is not the only one available. You could also try these:
http://www.bonesmart.org/public_forum/forumdisplay.php?f=30
http://www.medicinenet.com/total_hip_replacement/discussion-276.htm
Exercises after Hip Replacement. Many Videos Here.
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Hi Fellow Hippsters,
Strong active wishes to All!
Petersz, this may help. I'm at almost 5mos., (Not counting weeks anymore), post THR R side, Posterior. I remember when I was at 4 wks. Patience is such a virtue at this time. There's still, sore wound, some pain, general discomfort, limpiness, vulnerable, tired, 90 degree rule still in effect, etc. going on. Try to just love yourself until your 6 wk. appt. You'll see, you'll feel better daily. I was able to straddle the saddle of my bicycle at 9 wks. (I think Maggie and Barbara called me a Hippie Rockstar...Bless them). I guess I am one of the lucky ones in that respect. I've pretty much forgotten that I have a bionic R hip. Unfortunately my left hip joint decided to call it quits as soon as I was able to experience relatively normal function again for a few days. C'est la vie. Just be gentle and patient with yourself. Provided there are no complications it's just a matter of allowing yourself to heal.
Happy Healing Hippies,
xox
Zen
Last night I spent several hours composing a post, including personal messages, and when I clicked 'post comment' it somehow disappeared into cyberspace. I don't have the energy to re-do all of it, so forgive me. The good news is that my doppleganger (Maggie) has already said much of what I had said!! :-)
Congrats to Toots on the birth of your grandson!!
Barbara
Bob, I knew I forgot sumthin' last night when posting to you. Since anti-inflammatories are a problem for you, I wonder if your knee area (IT Band) would benefit from a cortisone injection? I'd inquire if I were you. My other thought was in regard to the foam-roller and massage; a little bit goes a long way. You can actually use the foam roller in a standing position for the IT Band and that makes it easier to apply less pressure; not as "ouchy," yet still effective. I'd think every other day with that might be a better choice than every day. You could also try to find a massage therpist to work on the IT Band; mine was very helpful.
Peter, one other note: PT creates a lot of pain initially. We need to do it, but it's not pleasant until we build up some muscle. Be sure to take your pain meds a good hour prior to your sessions and ice immediately when you get home. Then, take it easy the rest of the day so your muscles can recover a bit. Pain is very discouraging/depressing and naturally, makes us reluctant to do the necessary exercise. so if your surgeon won't provide you with a better pain med, make an appointment with your PCP who may be more empathetic. In general, surgeon's aren't the most understanding when it comes to these issues.
Peter, welcome.:-) Frustration is a common theme here as you'll soon discover. Largely, I think it's due to surgeon's giving us unrealistic expectations about just how long it really takes to recover. I had posterior surgery, and largely believed (as I was told) that in 3 months, life would begin to really improve. It didn't.When I went for my 3 month, post-op check-up and mentioned my displeasure, the surgeon then said , "Well, it's really a wide window of 3-6 months before one feels better than they did pre-surgery, and a full year to totally recover." It took a full 6 months before I began to feel better than pre-surgically. At 7 months post-op, there are still some minor complaints, but they are minor and life is truly becoming good again. I don't know what parameters people are given for recovery with anterior surgery, but I suspect you might wish to take whatever you were told and double the amount of time indicated. If you feel good sooner; great! If not, you won't feel as frustrated or disappointed. In either group, (anterior vs. posterior) there are always some "Hippie Rock Stars," who experience quick and rather miraculous recoveries. And then there are the rest of us, LOL. Hope this helps!
Difficulty sleeping due to pain and uncomfortable positions is par for the course for awhile. A pain level of 7 is high in my opinion and I'd let the surgeon know the meda aren't doing the trick. There are plenty of pain meds to pick from, so push to get a different Rx. Be sure to take them an hour or so before bed. Every little bit helps and we really do need our "beauty rest," to recover. One suggestion that might help is to raise your legs in bed with a pillow to reduce swelling. Even if you can't see swelling at this point, most likely it's there to some degree. Gentle stretching just before bed is also helpful, as is alternating ice and heat.
Limping and using a cane is also typical at first, though I'm not sure how long one can expect that with anterior surgery. Regardless of what anyone else experiences, we each recover accoring to our own, mysterious timetable. For instance, I used a cane for 4-5 months, depending on activity. I stopped using it in the house at around 8 weeks, but continued to use it for long walks outdoors or shopping expeditions. Others have reported shorter or longer usage, so it's truly variable.
I am now just about 4 weeks after total anterior hip replacement(4/01/12). I had hoped that by now I would be nearly pain free compared to what I had experienced before (I had Avascular Necrosis of the hip). I have PT 3 times a week and can perform the exercises presented sometimes with discomfort, the therapist says I am doing well. The problem is I have yet to have a full night sleep since the surgery due to pain, either in my hip, groin, thigh or knee,I awaken every hour in actual pain (7 on a 1-10 scale) or cramping. During the day I usually have pain also but seemingly less ( maybe a 4). I walk with a cane and pronounced limp. I saw my surgeon 2 weeks after the surgery he took xrays and said everything looked fine, when I mentioned the pain he said it would go away. It hasn't as of yet. I have norco 5-325 pain medication but they are of little help.
I am totally frustrated!!!!!!
Bob, I'm sorry to hear you are struggling right now. Recovery is such a long haul and it's only natural to feel discouraged at different points during this mystifying process. At around 9 weeks, I think we're all itching to get back to "normal," and for most of us, it just doesn't happen that quickly. Many times, I felt the whole process seemed interminable and I questioned whether or not I'd made the right decision by having the surgery. Also, at around that 9-10 week point, it seems many of us experience a few physical setbacks because we're doing more than we'd been doing the first couple of weeks. It's a bit of an "experimental," period to see just what we can and cannot do, and sometimes those experiments don't have favourable results. If you've overstretched or overdone just a bit, it can take a week or so of total R & R to get back to "square one." As such, it's important to really listen to your body and not push things if you're in pain. Very frustrating, I know!
Do you take any pain meds before bed, Rx or OTC? If not, perhaps that would help with your morning pain. How are you sleeping....side, back, stomach? Perhaps a change in position would help alleviate some of what you're describing. How old is your mattress? I know that sounds irrelevant, but if it's over ten years old, that might also be a culprit. It might also be beneficial to do an hour or so of alternating heat and ice before bed. The ice will kill the pain and alleviate any inflammation you may have, and heat relaxes the muscles and brings additional circulation to the area. It's worked very well for me and better than either alone.
From what you've stated, it sounds as though perhaps you shouldn't be doing that standing stetch? I know I would've found that painful at 9 weeks, and might still, at 7 months post-op if I overextended.
If the groin/abductor pain is really escalating, perhaps a call to your surgeon would be a good idea? I know you'll be seeing him in 3 weeks, but that's a long time to wait when in pain and worried about the cause. If nothing else, it may alleviate some fears or perhaps they could work you in sooner for a visit.
Please keep us posted, and feel free to gripe; you've earned it, eh?
Bonnie, for you to state that other than the "good," knee acting up, recovery is going pretty well is just amazing. You have "True Grit," and are a continuing inspiration to all.
I can certainly see exactly how that knee has taken the brunt of everything but I'm sure it will improve as your gait and strength improve. Even those of us that had much less complication than you've experienced have had painful issues of compensation felt in the back, knees, feet and other hip. It really seems to be a surgery that effects the entire muscular/skeletal system and perhaps that's why it really takes a full year (or 18 months in some cases) to be considered totally recovered.
I know whenever I'd felt down about progress, Barbara would always remind me to look back and see just how far I'd come. It's so important to place our focus on the positives, even when they seem minute or absurd and we're overwhelmed by other negatives.
On a happier note, I am thrilled to report that today I took my road bike out for the first time and was easily able to ride 10 miles! I was stunned! I wanted to go further, byt my sensible hubby said "No," LOL, and I'm sure he was right to curtail me. I've been dreaming of this all winter, and really wasn't sure if I was up to it, so it was a wonderful mental boost. Just two months ago, I know I couldn't have done it, so things keep improving, just not always on our timetable, eh?
Sending "Strong Healing Vibes" and lots of patience to all who are in need tonight. Better days are coming; pinkie swear!
Bob
I am 5 months Plus and I also had this in the morning problem about a month ago, and after about 6 steps or so it would go away...also after sitting for a while.I decided I needed to strenghten my muscles...now after a month the pain has dissapeared and I have no problem,perhaps a twinge now an again,but we all get these from time to time.I did some In Line Lunges,difficult at first.I did 10 on each side then started doing more as I felt able.I am sure a lot of pain we seem to get is because our muscles are still very weak.If your like me I was limping for 18 months or more,so I had not been using certain muscle for that length of time,plus after having the OP could basically only do the minor excercises they give us on leaving hospital,which I found so easy,it seemed a waste of time.So I progressed to advanced excercises and then the Lunges.I am now just short of 6 months post op,Yesterday I went to Paignton Zoo I took my cane, must have walked 2-3 miles it was also very hilly,today my calfs really ached,...what was that all about.I have not had that for years.It shows even though I appear to feel 95% recovered.I still have much work to do on the muscles..So basically what I am saying is give it time you will get there in the end...I hope this may give you some confidence,unless your groin problem has only just reared its ugly head in the last few days,then you may have overdone it...
Barry
Hello all- good to see some "new faces"; some older posters returning. I am almost 10 months out from initial RTHR in which my pelvis was shattered during surgery. Almost 5 months of non-weight bearing caused atrophy of hip muscle. In January, hip components slipped. Revision surgery mid-March, so I'm a little over 2 months from that. My hip is doing well this time; still working on hip muscle with PT-- got the clam exercise up to about 4-5 inches above other knee from no daylight at all. Still limp when I try to walk without cane. In fact, PT had me try to stand on right leg only-- couldn't do it... couldn't even lift my left leg off the ground!! So weak! NOW, my other knee is swollen and painful-- too much over-compensation for the operated leg.... and no ACL on that other knee. This has compromised my recovery somewhat as I am not able to walk well, trying to lessen pressure on this knee. Good thing?--- I am putting more weight on the operated side. Feeling a bit low at times- when will it all end? It has been a roller coaster ride for sure! I am trying to plan a trip in October thinking I will be walking better then, but am reluctant in a way as I had to cancel trips last summer and in March of this year too! I am seeing my Primary Care doctor Tues., so we'll see what is said- maybe a referral to a specialist for the knee? If it wasn't for the opposite knee troubles, I would feel pretty good about my recovery this second time! Good luck to all.... Bonnie/ Rogue53
Hello again folks. Hope everyone is making some progress.
I posted with original concerns of severe knee pain 9 weeks after after THR.... Maggie and the group centered in on IT band and I have been doing lots of stretching (including rolling with foam roller .. ouch!) and do feel this is helping.
Also had new Radioligist look at all my old X-rays and feels remnants of old Osgood-Schlatter disease and tendon tightness is contributing to knee pain. OK sounds logical.
More recently I have developed severe Groin Pain especially if I perform a long stretch like standing and reaching for the ceiling. BUT MOST Troublesome is upon awakening after night sleep. Groin/abductor is so painful I must immediately get out of bed.. Funny but ten steps down the hall and it already starts to feel better.. What is with this morning pain???
I continue with PT and stretching exercises. 20 minute stationary bike but have stopped all weight lifting exercise.Maggie. I know you have suggested anti-inflammatory meds but I must be careful with Heart issues so I only use sparingly.
3-month post-op check up not for another three weeks. Lot's to talk bout when I do go.
Trying to keep a positive attitude but must admit it can get a little "bluesy' if I am not careful and find myself back at gym where I feel the best but may be paying for it by overdoing it.
Thanks to all for this wonderful forum and the help it is to share info. Wishing everyone Godspeed
Lynn my last appointment is not until June hope I can hold on that long
GKorbar, crap! What disturbing news, especially since it sounds as though it could've been prevented entirely. So sorry you are going through this and also dealing with job concerns as a result; really a raw deal all around. I know I've heard of the problem, though have no idea how common it may be. I can't quite recall if it was discussed by my surgeon as a possibility, but if so, it was probably just a brief mention. When facing other, more typical issues such as death, blood-clots, infection, and nerve damage, I'm not sure it would've meant much to me at that time. I wonder if it would be helpful to get a second or third opinion as to your options?
Zen, good to see you! I've been wondering where you've been and was hoping perhaps you'd had the second procedure by now. Bummer on the pain level, but hey, you're still riding the bike (kudos) and your spirits sound good.:-)
Debbie, what is the cause of all this swelling at 18 months post-op? Is it definitely hip related, and if so, why after all this time? Would a diuretic help? I can see where a long flight could be uncomfortable but perhaps if you were able to get up often (at least once an hour) it would prevent any major swelling? I can't say I've read of anyone with this particular issue, but hopefully, someone here may have and can put your mind at ease.
LL2011, your recovery sounds classic and gives hope to all in the beginning stages of recovery. I am in complete agreement about not comparing yourself to others. It can be trying sometimes, but eventually, we all seem to improve.
Toots, he with no name at present won't be in the least bit spoiled, now will he? LOL, at the older sibling enjoying him "so far." If I recall correctly, (questionable) you had a cemented hip, so that may account for some difference in your present walking ability; not sure. Regardless, I still have faith that you'll regain most of your former walking abilities because you are still exercising and that's the key. As I said last night, we both have another 5 months before we reach that year milestone, so a lot of healing and strength building can take place in the interim. I think you'd find the article that Saundra listed very interesting because it specifically addresses "walking therapy," and has some interesting ideas.
Toots...welcome to the little lad, I can't imagine not having a name yet bless him.
Mine had names even before they were born and I didn't know what they were going to be, 40 odd years ago we didn't have the technology (glad really, so much more fun). Luckily Natalie turned out to be a girl!
Hi Hippies,
I'm still here. Still waiting for my next date. I had almost forgotten the pre-surgery pain. Well...it's back, and I'm coping. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Lots of focus on good BBQ's and cycling as much as possible.
gkorbar, my heart goes out to you. I'll investigate blood thinners for my second surgery.
Happy healing hipsters.
XOX,
Zen
Hi all, good to see you and new faces. I'm about 18 months out after a fall and hip replacement. I'm glad I'm not bound to a wheelchair, but facing new challenges and feeling rather down. The darn leg still swells up - doc says it's ok, as long as it goes back to 'normal' after a night's sleep. I'm tall, and had previous damage to the that ankle, so swelling is nothing new, but I want to fly to the States this summer, and the trip is so long, I'm wondering if it's advisable. Anyone with similar experience, problems?
Hi guys, I am now 6 months post surgery, healed well. Virtually no limp any more, found a way of putting socks on and even tights. One lesson I learned, don't be impatient or too hard on yourself, especially when you see others who may be able to do a little more than you can at that moment. I can sleep on my op side, no worries, when I get tired I can feel a little discomfort in the op site, but that is about all. Nothing in comparison to the awful pain I had for 8 months and after my fall.
Big hugs to you all, keep up the great work. Lora xx
Hi All,
saw my surgeon yesterday,I am disappointed, I told him about my not being able to bend forward at hip, not even close to being able to put on sock or shoe. He had X-Ray taken,Showed a milkyness arount hip joint. It was worse than last time,(4 weeks ago). What he said it was is Heterotropic ossification, it is from taking Blood thinners, blood leaks into joint area and more or less hardens into bone. He told me to keep stretching, I have been doing the stretches,walking 2-3 miles a day, 120 miles on bicycle in 3 weeks, and I am worse than before surgery for bending. I had the surgery because of not being able to put my sock and shoe on easily, and ride my Harley. Could still at least put on shoe and tie it, had more pain before. He also said that he could go in and clean out the area then use radiation to stop the formation of the calsification, but wouldn't do the surgery until 1 year out from surgery. I was never informed about this possible side effect. He told me if i ever have the other hip replaced he would do radiation treatment after surgery, wish he would have done that this time.
I got a return to work form, for another week from now, has limitions of 4 hours work a day, and lifting restrictions, squating, kneeling for two weeks, has permanent restriction of no squating and kneeling. No way they will take me back to work with them restrictions.
I will keep doing the stretches, and hope that regular movement comes back or wish I would have left my hip the way I was,the pain was bad, but could at least dress my self without using three different devices.
Thank you for your kind words Barry. No, I don't think I have done too badly, but it is so frustrating at times to be a patient patient!
The flavour of the babe is male. Poor little chap is still without a name. Male is very novel in our family. I was one of 4 girls and had 3 daughters, so I look on the male child with a little surprise (I won't say suspicion). My daughter already has her little girl, who is being exemplary so far in her approach to new sibling. Haha, early days.
I am enjoying the break of being away from home - but not neglecting my exercises!
Best wishes to all. Maggie, so pleased to read that walking is rapidly becoming pain-free for you. It gives me hope.
Toots, congratulations on the arrival of the new family member! I can feel your excitement through cyberspace! Glad to hear all went well! As Lynn asked, what flavor LOL?
I agree with Barry's statement on aches, pains and stiffness at this point. I find sitting too long the most aggravating; makes me stiff and a bit achey. However, I can now walk a good 45-60 minutes before any aches or stiffness set in, and I certainly couldn't do that last year at this time.:-) For me, things seem to have improved a lot after the 6 month point and now at 7 months, I'd say I feel about 80-90% of "normal," give or take, depending on what mischief I gotten into. The strength training does make me achy, but I think it's supposed to right now, eh? I also keep reminding myself that it's still a full five months before I hit that milestone of a year, so I expect much more improvement. PMA and all that.:-)
I had a slow-motion fall of sorts yesterday while doing squats of all things. The big exercise ball slipped from behind my back, so I landed on the floor with a thump. Happily, no damage done! Had I done that just 2 months ago, I probably would've ached for a week. Tonight, hubby and I had to attend a wake, 90 minutes from home, so yes, I was stiff for a bit upon exiting the car, but it subsided quickly with a little walking and a lot of standing. The trip home was abit more uncomfortable, but I think that's to be expected. Three hours in a vehicle IS a long time, hippie or not!
Barbara, I'm so happy to hear you recovered quickly after your fall and didn't need to resort to an ice bath, LOL. I think one of the best things that happens now is that we do recover much faster from any foolish thing we might do, eh?
Seabeegranma, I know you have a job where you're on your feet most of the day, so I'm sure that must contribute to your present aches. I think it's hard for any of us to say what is "normal," but it does seem we all have some residual aches and pains, even after 6-10 months. If your pain is sharp, I'd call the surgeon or go in for a check-up just to make certain all is as it should be. If it's more of a dull ache, I suspect that's typical, especially with all the standing you do. If the pain is on the outer hip, you probably need to strengthen the abductors; inner hip/groin would indicate weak adductors. The strength exercises for those really do help a lot.
That said, it's my understanding that some of us will never regain full muscle strength, perhaps only 80%, but supposedly that shouldn't make a huge difference in our comfort level. It may mean that some activities will always be a bit diffiult or bring on some stiffness, but I'd like to think positive at this point, with much more recovery time ahead. I just keep going with the strength training routine, walking, swimming and cycling and will see where it all leads eventually.
Saundra, my bike is a hybrid that can do road, gravel, grass or relatively smooth dirt trails. I don't think I'd enjoy the bumps this year, LOL, but the bike is a comfy, old fart, cruiser style, which means sitting fairly upright on a decent seat that doesn't "bite." For what I do, it's suits me fine, but cycling isn't my primary exercise, it's more of a purely recreational thing.
I think it's a good idea to concentrate on strength training before taking out the road bike, but that's only because I was advised to do so. I used (and still use) a stationary bike 2-3x a week. When my IT Band flared-up, I could ride the bike, but could barely walk, so in that sense, biking was a godsend. If your balance is intact and you can swing your leg over enough to mount a road bike, maybe just give a whirl for a short test ride and see how you feel the next day?
Thanks for that AARP article! I found it very interesting in many ways, because it echoed my surgeon's and PT's advice with respect to walking on uneven surfaces and tailoring PT to suit my specific interests. Unfortunatley PT Round One didn't do that, but my new one has, and it's made a great difference. I think I'll try walking some "Figure 8's" tomorrow!
If you can develop a better Blog for us, I say go for it! This one is awkward, especially if one wants to go back and read from the beginning, eh? I've no talent whatsoever in Blog design, (read: Luddite) but have no objection to participating elsewhere.
Marilyn, it sounds as though you are doing very well! We seem to be getting more and more here who have had the anterior approach, so you're in good company. Those who've had it and are further along the road should be very helpful if you have any progress questions.:-) All of you Anterior Members seem to recover much more quickly than those of us in the Posterior Club, LOL. Either way, I think patience, caution and consistency with exercise will bring the results we desire.
To those who celebrate, wishing all a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend.:-)
Toots I dont think you have done too bad,I think on average the majority of people on the forum,seem to have some pain even after 6 months.I myself up to about 2 weeks ago still had pain in my hip, walking and also after sitting a while I would get a pain in my inner thigh(groin area)when getting up after sitting a while.Also even now when I get up in the morning there is still a certain amount of stiffness,but feel I have now recovered 95%,and should eventually get to 100% but probably for a few more months
Seabeegrandma is the pain on the outside at the top of the hip or in the groin area.I am sure if you go to the docs,they will probably say,nerves and things are still mending,I found doing a few lunges strengthened my muscles and within a few weeks the pain went.
But we all seem to get pains in different places.hopefully time will heal
Barry
Toots, congratulations on the new grandchild, although you don't say which flavour!!
glad everything went OK.
UK is very nice at the moment but my pool is NOT....spending many hours walking around it (my exercise regime) with a net scooping odd looking things out of it yukk!!
Seebeegrandma, my hip also tightens up if I walk too much (6.5 months on) but generally no pain to complain about, maybe a word to the Doc , have you had the last appointment, mines in July?
I am 8 months post op and am doing fine except I still have pain at the inside of my hip and I was wondering if that is normal I can walk at times but there are times when I still hurts to even go up stairs. Is this normal and hopefully the pain will go away
Hi all, just to say the new baby arrived on Wednesday 22.00 GMT. Mum and baby are doing very well, and I am sending this from a London hotel. As the weather is sweltering here in the UK (as much as the UK can swelter) it is crop trousers and summer skirt time, so I finally got round to shaving my legs before I left. Did it without major problems.
I am now 7 months post-op, and although I haven't made the speedy progress of some on this forum I can look back and see the progress from the op, and certainly from pre-op. I no longer use any sort of support, although if I went on a long hike I might take my collapsible stick with me. My bending and crouching gets better week on week, although I still have to concentrate on using my bad leg and not relying too much on my good. I can get down on the floor to play with my grand daughter, and I can walk up a hill. There is a certain amount of challenge to both activities but also a sense of things getting easier over time. I still have some pain and stiffness on getting up and after walking for over 10 minutes or so, but I do not need painkillers.
So even the slow healers get there in the end!
All the best to all hippies, whether just embarking on the journey or old hands.
Hi All,
Greetings from the Left Coast of the US. I am a Navy Vet so my operation was done at the VA. I had no choice in the type of surgery but my Stanford Doc was a posterior genius (did that come out right?) and my surgery and recovery has been fine.
Welcome Lucy - I agree with Barbara, start at the beginning of the forum and read it ALL. I know it will be time consuming (have we ever thought of moving to a more user friendly format, with "threads" that are easier to follow?) but in the long run you will save so much time in research. Your dad is lucky to have you. I will only say that he will probably feel bad for needing your help well after surgery is over but he will most likely need help for months post op. If it weren't for my partner my poor feet would feel like sandpaper. I still (surgery on left hip 2/2/2012) can't just bend over and wash, dry, lotion, sock and shoe the left. I am closer, but not yet fully able to work with that foot.
BarbaraNC - so glad to hear you are doing well; a fall can certainly send us into emotional AND physical turmoil. I haven't actually hit the ground but when I stumble I am quite nervous for awhile. I am now using an exercise ball for a seat (will report later, may be too firm) and almost fell off of that a couple of times and it really shook me up.
Maggie and Gkorbar - talk to me about the biking, are you using road bikes or mountain? I was planning to go back to the gym first to get my strength back before trying outside. What do you think?
I have a couple of questions:
Who else had/is having THR because of AVN? I'm just curious because they aren't really sure what caused it for me. I was a pretty serious body builder in my younger years.
SueRN and other Bi-Lateral Hippies - I have to have both hips done (on the list for RTHR) and I am finding my right hip is now impacting my left hip recovery. I was doing really well and now feel pretty wiped out (okay - yes, we know I worked too soon and too much, but really?)
Barry - you give me hope for my golfing future!
I found this article interesting about learning how to walk again post THR.
http://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/i
Still breathing, walking...heel, toe, squeeze cheeks...and even on the unhappy days I am grateful for the blessing the LTHR is in my life and for all of you!
Have just received a new hip...anterior approach, 10 days ago.
Nor home worth home physiotherapy and daily visits from nursing a staff.
Moving well, but still feels very tight.
My main problem is stepping after 3am!
Hello all - I'm happy to report that I recovered from my fall very quickly. No ice bath, just Advil, and was just a bit sore/stiff in many parts of my body yesterday, and I drove to work with no problem. Today I feel nearly normal (only a bit of pain in the butt/hip area and a bruise on my shin).
Lynn, yes, your paint can experience should have taught me a lesson, but it's so easy to fool ourselves into thinking standing on a chair is safer. The sad thing is that I do keep a step stool in my kitchen, but because we had stuff piled on top of it, it seemed easier to grab a chair. New rule in our house is to keep step stool clutter-free and handy!! Even better would be Maggie's strategy of having them all over the house. Live & learn.
Barry, thanks so much for the encouragement! I guess I was lucky after all. Awesome that you were able to golf and not have any after-effects!! I also appreciate the advice about not plopping down in a chair - hadn't thought about that, but it makes a lot of sense and my recent fall reminded of the need to be more cautious! I also think what you said about the problem with knee pain being helped by stronger quads makes a lot of sense... I haven't had knee pain, but I walked regularly before surgery (despite hip pain), and my PT emphasized quad exercises post-surgery, so maybe that's why I was able to dodge that bullet.
Maggie, you are so wise, as always! Step stools all over the house, flash cards, strength training for life - love it all! Yes, it's a bit ironic how the PT "rewards" our progress by making things harder - they don't want us getting too accustomed to being pain-free after PT! Of course, it makes sense they they would push us forward, and I'm sure your new level of exercises will help you continue to progress, but I know it's frustrating!
Kastie - I agree with Maggie's response to you. I was able to work from home, so that eased my transition back to work enabling me to work again after about a month. I would think that the 6 week mark would be the earliest if you need to drive to work because driving can be a challenge at that point. And if you have a job where you need to be on your feet for hours at a time, it would be best to go back part time even at the 6-week mark. The first week is tough, but don't be discouraged - it passes!
SueRN, so nice to hear from you! I had my surgery last summer also and remember seeing your posts last fall (when I most needed support)! I'm so happy to hear that you're doing so well. I hope the shot helps with the tendinitis, but I know what you mean - compared to what we've been through, these "lesser pains" are easy to bear. I hope everything continues to progress well!
Sandy Ontario, you are doing so well if you're already moving to the cane!! I think you may be in Maggie's "Hippie Rock Star" category!
Best wishes and happy healing to all!
JanVA, whoops, one letter makes a difference! It's Healio.com on Orthopedics Today.
Maggie, I am not finding Helio.com. Is that the correct name of the site? Thanks.
Gkorbar, I knew I missed sumthin'! You and I are the same age, so my hat's off to you with your amazing cycling abilities! My best on a bike has been 17 miles, but that was prior to all this hip nonsense.
I hope you get some answers on your flexibility this week. Sending positive vibes your way that it's all par for the course and not atypical in any way.
Hello Hipsters! For all who might be interested, there's a very interesting article on Helio.com that discusses the pros and cons of anterior versus posterior approach THR. Generally speaking, it seems the surgeon makes the choice based on a number of factors, including weight, orginal diagnosis (avascular necrosis or fracture versus OA )and their level of comfortability with each technique.
Kastie, in order to be able to return to work, you must be off narcotic pain medication and able to drive. The need for pain meds varies widely, but most are able to drive again at the 4-6 week point post-op. You didn't say whether or not you have a desk job, but assuming you do, if you can meet the above requirements and you're "lucky," with recovery (yes, some luck is involved with the recovery process)I'd imagine you could return to work at around the 6-8 week point. I've seen widely varying time frames for a return to work that go anywhere from 4 weeks to 4-5 months, so again, it's a very individual situation based upon your ability to recover.
The risk of dislocation is very minimal either way, provided you follow the post-surgical precautions. I had the posterior approach and was told by my surgeon that beyond following some precautions the first 3 months, I'd have to be tackled by an NFL linebacker or tossed down a flight of stairs to suffer dislocation.
Recovery is faster with an anterior approach because muscles and tendons are spared. That said, your bone still has to heal and that takes roughly 6-8 weeks, as it would for a fracture. Bottom line: Not everyone is a good candidate for each approach and your surgeon is the only one who can determine which path is right for you. Best of luck whichever way you go and keep us posted.:-)
Barry, what great news! Why am I not surprised, LOL? I think what you've stated about the quads and their effect on the knee makes great sense. I've noticed very positive knee/IT band changes since I've amped up the strength training. Interestingly, I was fairly athletic prior to surgery (swimming, cycling, light hiking, former skiier,) and thought I had good strength and muscle tone. However, I'm ashamed to admit I was definitely a slacker in the strength training department. Now I can really see how that crucial piece probably made quite a difference in developing the knee/IT band problem that had been hindering my recovery process. Because of the great results, I've decided to keep strength training on my agenda until I'm "Six-Feet Under.:-)
Junket, it's great to see you doing so very well; huzzah!
SueRN, I'm so glad to see your post! It's great to hear from those who are further along the path and are doing well! I'm at 7 months post-op and am finally feeling pretty close to "normal," after a long and ouchy struggle with IT Band tendonitis that also affected my knee area. I did not get the steroid injection, but in hindsight, I probably should have. I'll be very interested to see how that works for you and hoping it's just the thing to get you back to pain-free movement. Please keep us posted!
Sand, kudos on graduating to the cane! It's a great milestone....I remember that day very well.:-) Good luck on Friday with Outpatient PT. It's much more aggressive than what you've been doing so far, so be prepared. I found it very helpful to take pain meds an hour before treatment and lots of ice immediately afterwards. The first few sessions are the worst, but the good news is, it improves quickly.:-)
My first entry was yesterday and here I am again. Did not know there was another way to do hip surgery till I read johnkett's entry....I had posterior done 3 wks ago. Checked out the differnces on the web, and there is pro's and con's.....have my last in house pt today then I go back to my own pt this friday.....I move up to the cane today......YEAH.....Will be reading the site....great information and it makes me feel better that there are other people out there in the same boat as me.....
24 hours after my first game of golf,no ill effects,so now I am back,this should also help strenghten my muscles..I also think that people with knee pains,which appears to be a big problem on other hip forums that I have been on, could be due to quads not strong enough and once you build up your muscle mass the pain eventually goes away.As I did say to my PT I thought my knees would go first afer all the football,squash,and Racketball I use to play,but he did say then, my quads were so good,that it would help my knees...
Johnkett I am also from the UK I had my op in a private hospital through the NHS I was given a choice of where to go.On going to see them,they did not ask what I wanted but just told me I would have posterior approach, the surgeon had done hundreds of hip operations, they do 30 hip and knee ops per week,each surgeon has different methods.some put in drains after the op, others do not,my surgeon did not.I think the main problem is getting a surgeon that specialises in these ops.I was perhaps lucky he was very good.. reading on this forum it seems that Stateside, due to the Insurance you can look around more..I may be wrong but this is the impression I get from this forum
I was told the type of implant I was having and also shown one after my operation,I was suprised it was so light.So no excuse for being a bit more heavier.
One of the guys in hospital having a knee op,did read up about it and asked for the particular one he wanted..and was given it.But to be honest my thought was they are the surgeons so they should know what is best for me.At the end of the day I think the majority of surgeons do the posterior approach,especially here in the UK
The main thing is my op went well and I am very happy and can now get on with the rest of my life after suffering a few years of pain
good luck to all of you on the forum and notice some of the newer people on the forum are either in the early part of your recovery or thinking of having it done...Go for it,as your quality of life will improve greatly you only have to look on here and read the comments of others
Barry
Woops, hit submit too soon. Anyway, they are doing a steroid injection of that today and I am hoping that helps. Now the upside, I don't have hip pain! I can cross my legs, easily. I can put socks on...like a normal person, and my super huge accomplishment, I can sit Indian style. I have never been able to do that. I can walk five miles and have no pain when I am done. Don't wait to have the surgery, you'll be glad you did. If anyone else has had this tendinitis thing, I would love to hear from you. Basic symptom is pain when I lift my leg at the knee. It's annoying, but compared to where I was last year, it's nothing. Take care everyone! - Sue
Hi everyone! I haven't posted in a long time and I wanted to let some of you recent hippies know how things are a year later. I am 44. I had both hips replaced, anterior approach, last year. The left in April, right in July. Prior to that I was walking with a cane, and on very heavy pain meds, life sucked...as most of you know. I am doing very well. The anterior approach does have some advantages. You do recover much faster, also, the Dr can see better and has a better chance of placing the cup in the joint more accurately. I do have one complication,I have tendonitis on the left side from the surgery.
Hi fellow hipsters. Interesting debate regarding anterior v posterior. I wish I'd have studied the topic before my THR posterior on 20 Feb this year here in UK. Clearly from what I have read since the anterior approach damages less muscles and recovery is quicker.
However I can't complain I was driving and back at work in six weeks and apart from occassional "gun in pocket" pain have been fine. Down in London at the weekend and walked miles around Richmond and Twickenham with no problems. Bending down has been a struggle early on but no problem now fastening my shoelaces etc.
What I would say is anyone having THR should discuss the options. I get the feeling that the posterior approach is used more because that's the traditional way of doing things.
Maggie,
I am 59 years old, had anterior hip replacement. Used walker 1 week, done with crutches by 14 days. I drove at ten days, I got a dog at 2 week mark, pretty much pulled me down street walking, so gave up on cane. Recovered pretty fast, only thing is the bending motion, can't get near foot, it's like it's locked up, not the pain, just won't go any farther. I'm happy I can ride bike, did another 22 miles today. I will let you know what surgeon says.
I have been to two doctors and need hip replacement. The dr who does the anterior surgery stated that major benefit is the new hip does not slip out of place. He said recovery time for men is not much different than posterior. I have very limited time that I can miss from work. Any thoughts on the least amount of time I would miss from work. Is there a consensus that anterior is better than posterior?
Barbara, NOOOOO!!!! Aaaaack! I was going to say I can't believe you did that, but bit my tongue. I remembered Lynn's paint can debacle, along with several of my own "mindless," ventures in the crouching arena! I'm really relieved to hear that though you were shaken, rattled and bruised, it seems as though your new hip fared well, or at least as well as the rest of you. I wonder if we all need "Flash Cards," to remind us of these particular perils? I have a "Crouching Alarm," imbedded in my wrist, but unfortunately, it must be defective; it only beeps AFTER the fact, LOL! P.S.: I have sturdy stepstools all over the house, upstairs and down.....call me paranoid.:-)
Barry, you did it!!! Huzzah!!! How exciting to know you're out on the links again! The fact that you were pain-free the entire time is inspirational....even if you do hurt a bit today; hope you don't though! Hoisting the toddler onto your shoulders and walking with him afterwards is also a great sign:-)Thanks for the warning about "plopping with force," into a chair. It does make sense, but of course, as time goes by and we feel better and better, these are the kinds of things one does without thinking. I'm going to add it too my "Flash Cards.":-)
Welcome Sandy! It sounds as though you are right on track with crutches and cane next week.:-) The muscles take a beating, well actually a cutting during THR, so yes, most of the complaints are muscular in nature unless you try to make a silly move against precautions. If you do, the new hip will let you know in no uncertain terms that you've made a "mistake." Otherwise, you'll mostly be dealing with aches and not much stamina at first. However, you're fairly young, and were active pre-surgery, so perhaps your stamina and recuperative powers will place you in the "Hippie Rock Star Category!" If not, don't despair, there are many here in the SHG (Slower Healing Group) and we're all progressing nicely at different points in the journey. I have every reason to believe you'll be back on the motorcycle in 3-6 months, sooner if you had anterior surgery.
Gkorbar, I'll be very interested to see what your surgeon has to say about your overall progress and flexibility. Please update us when you can! *Green with envy* at biking 23 miles.:-) I am inspired to take my road bike out this coming weekend, but will be pleased with a much lesser distance, LOL. The posterior surgery and the bike saddle are not exactly a recipe for comfort, but I do love cycling. Just curious, and you certainly don't need to answer, but am wondering what age bracket you're in?
I had PT today (first time in 2 weeks) and he was so pleased with my progress that he decided to "reward," me with stronger exercise bands and more reps of everything. Sometimes I wonder if I'll ever be "done," with all this stuff, but I try not to go down that twisted path. As my grandmother would say, "It could always be worse."
Barbara...you didn't listen to me when I told everyone NOT to use anything unusual as step ladders did you????
I thought that after I did it everyone would take heed!! I do hope your doing OK by now, doesn't it frighten you though ....I was SO happy that I didn't hurt myself badly.
The pot of paint that I stood on was a stupid thing to do and I knew that when I was doing it but laziness took over.
We should ALL have a small pair of step ladders handy in future. xxxPMA
Well, I played my first game of golf today since the Op...only 9 holes,the course is quite hilly.Once I hit my first shot which considering I have not played since August was very good,also no pain whatsoever,it did the world of good for my confidence..It was a relief to play with no pain and I managed to finish with no problem.At times I even forgot I had,had the operation,So overall I feel lucky to have recovered well enough to play again so quickly....Although I will have to see tomorrow if there are any after affects,my leg felt a little heavy towards the end,but it was all uphill for the final 2 holes..mind you went for a walk the other day and after a mileand a half or so finished up carrying my grandson of 3, on my shoulders for about 400 yards...This also gave me confidence before I went on the golf course....
Barbara you do not appear to have too much luck,but still appear to be very positive.I think you are correct,you start feeling better and I find myself going up a stepladder before thinking should I be doing this.. As Maggie would say kudos to you.Like you have said many times Patience is the name of the game and I am sure you will eventually recover
Good luck to you all,will let you know if there are any after effects later...fingers crossed(not legs though not allowed)..by the way the one thing I kept forgetting to mention.I was also advised by my OS never to just plop down in a chair heavily,which when you think about it is obvious,but I dont think anybody has mentioned it on things not to do for the rest of your life......
Barry
Hi all: been reading the site to see if I am on track for recovery. I am 49 and had my left hip replaced May 3 2012. It is almost 3 wks and I am using on crutch and am moving to the cane on my 3rd wk date. I don't really have pain as sore muscles...I have had inhome pt for the last 3 wks and go back to my own pt this friday. I get my right hip done in september. I was very active befor surgery, skiing, golf, bowling etc, but the golf and skiing have been off the list for the last season as it hurt to much. What I am looking forward too is getting back on the motorcycle with my husband.( could not spread my legs last summer to get on!!)
I used alvee and lots of ice and do all my exercises 3 times a day (if not more) I do know what you all mean about the knee pain, but I am sure that once my leg muscles get stronger so will my knee pain go away.
Looking forward to reading more the comments that get posted. by for now to all my follow hippies.
Sandy
Fell off from a chair I was standing on today (at nearly 10 months post op), and en route down there was that split second thought: "Oh NO, I'm going to dislocate my hip!!" Luckily, my hip is not throbbing any more than other parts of my body that took the fall, and clearly I did not dislocate it, so I feel pretty lucky. I even broke the chair where my shin hit the dowel, so you can imagine the lovely purple bruise I'm going to have on my shin. Dear friends, never, never use a chair as a stepping stool! Another example of how, once we start feeling better, we think, "Oh, I can do that..." of any number of things only to realize it may not have been such a good idea!! Yes, Maggie, I have taken Advil and will do so again in the morning. When I almost fell soon after surgery, I remember that the wrenching of my body caused more pain a day or two after the event than the day of, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I'll be able to drive to work tomorrow. And Maggie, I can hear you saying to ice it, but "it" in this case is just about my whole body, so I may need to fill the tub with ice water and dive in to deal with this one! LOL
Toots, grandbabies are such joy, and I am excited for you!
LucyATX, be sure to read the stuff at the very top of this forum because it has a lot of the basic info about what to expect. Best of luck with your Dad and his recovery. He is lucky to have you there, and remember the forum is here for support and questions that will come up.
Nice to see all the new peeps on the forum! Healing wishes to all!
Barbara
George, I think it's only natural to favor the operated side a bit, but there's a fine balance (which none of us have initially) between "enough and too much." You will feel discomfort, it's unavoidable, but pain at the 6-7 level is far too much in my humble opinion. Understandably, no one in their right mind wants to move much with that kind of pain, and that's a bad situation for recovery. Are you still on Rx pain meds? If not, you might wish to discuss that with your surgeon or PCP and see what they can offer at this point. Many people need RX meds (self-included) for 3-4 months, so don't be shy about requesting them. As my surgeon said, "Experiencing pain never aided anyone's healing process." If you'd prefer to avoid Rx meds, a combo of 1 Aleeve (approximately 8-10 hours of relief) and 2, 8 hour Tylenol for breakfast can take the edge off a bit.You can then repeat at night to insure better sleep as well. Bottom line: Don't be a macho man or martyr when better living through chemistry is available."
Lucy, Toots pretty much gave you the total picture on what to expect, but I'll throw in a few more thoughts.
His mobility will be very limited the first 2-4 weeks (perhaps longer at his age) and he'll be very tired. Most likely, he'll come home with a walker, and you'll need to purchase a raised toilet seat, grabber tool, sock-aid, and some TEDS which are elastic support stockings. If he's going to a rehab facility for a week or so post-surgically, they will teach him how to use the tools, dress, shower and provide him with a simple set of home exercises. Once home, he'll most likely have a home nurse to monitor his incision, meds and coumadin levels. A home PT will come 2-3x a week for several weeks and assist with gentle exercise and walking. You may or may not have a home OT, who will teach him the best way to get in and out of the shower, dress and also how to execute other moves, such as getting up from sitting, rolling over in bed and getting in and out of a car. Often, the OT piece is handled during the hospital stay.
He'll need a comfortable pair of sturdy shoes; slip-ons are the easiest to manage, but they need to be supportive. Getting pants on and off is difficult, so if he's not comfortable with your assistance in that endeavor, pants that snap up the inside of the leg are available. The hospital should be able to tell you where those can be purchased.
If he has a reclining, power lift chair, he'll be spending much time there. If he doesn't have one, you may wish to purchase one, because getting up and down from a seated position is the most difficult movement in the first few weeks and months and I'd have to think this would be exacerbated by his advanced age.
Outpatient PT generally begins after 4-6 weeks at home, when one can safely get in and out of a car again.
Does his hospital offer pre-op classes on what to expect? Many do, and they're invaluable for the patient and their families.
Best wishes to both you and your Dad, and hey, you and he may be pleasantly surprised. Sometimes, the elderly actually do better with pain issues during recovery than younger folks. Keep us posted!
Dee, I think I've read every post on this forum and only "met," two others that experienced the knee pain. We seem to be an "exclusive," group, LOL. Somehow, I must've have missed yours from a year ago. Here's hoping you can avoid that particular pitfall this time, eh? I've got agree, that knowing exactly what to expect should make this recovery a little bit easier....which is not to say it will be "easy." But hey, you already know that.:-) Best wishes and post more often!
Saundra, LOL, at your "twins," theory! If we were destined to be twins, I wish the things we share would be of a more pleasant nature. I mean, c'mon, leg-length discrepancies, tilted pelvises (or should that be pelvi?....nah, that looks really weird) and ouchy knees? However, we do both share the practice and belief in "Form Matters!" I don't knit, but I do crochet something non-challenging occasionally; think scarf or small blanket, LOL. When my brain was totally addled from the pain meds, I made the same scarf over and over and over.....it's still a "Work-in-Process!"
Where are you located, Left Coast? If so, yeah....I guess it would be rather difficult to hang-out, but, we've got Cyber-Space! Raisin' a glass to technology and healing for all!
After reading all the encouragement on here & the fact that my PT says I favor my affected hip "too much" with the cane, I've decided that I'll swallow some pain & not use it around the house. I have to stretch after being seated for a while, but once the kinks are out, I go from a major limp to a somewhat "normal" walk. When I say pain, pain level of 6/7 comes to mind, but "no pain, no gain", right? As for cutting the grass again, the answer is "No way!" I was so sore for the 2 days after that I learned my lesson.
Thanks & Take care! ;)
2 hour visit to IKEA. A true test of mental and physical stamina! Leg started to ache with a twisty feeling half way round but just about stayed the course. Just flopped when I got home. All quiet on the baby front.
LucyATX, I hope all goes well for your dad. You need to check out any restrictions he has on bending etc. Some of us are not allowed to bend at hip more than 90 degrees for first 12 weeks. Also not allowed to cross leg over the midline for fear of dislocation, so no sitting with legs or ankles crossed. To ensure we can keep to the restrictions we have raised toilet seats and chairs, and various aids to dressing eg special tool to put socks on. In practice it is impossible anyway to bend that much. A litter-picker type tool is also very useful. In the UK we are issued with all these aids and introduced to them on the ward by an occupational therapist. I'm not sure what happens in the USA.
Your dad will probably have a set of gentle exercises to do. He will have to go upstairs one at a time for some weeks. He may need a walker to start with, graduating onto elbow crutches and then a walking stick (cane, in your part of the world!)
Everybody recovers at different rates, as you will see from reading through the posts on here. It's all a matter of patience, and listening to your body. It's important not to do too much but equally important to push gently against the limits.
I found nighttime to be difficult. I was told to lie on my back with a pillow between my knees, and I found it very uncomfortable to sleep like that. Your dad may have a similar experience.
Anyway, let us know how you get on. Sny problems you can be sure of support on here, and we will all do our best to help.
Best wishes to all.
Hi! Very glad to have found this forum. My dad, who's 85, will have hip replacement today. Posterior approach, to be done by Dr. Duffy in Colorado Springs. I'm staying with him during his recovery. Wondering what to expect, how best to help!
Advice appreciated!
Hi all,
While I don't often post, I do pop in as often as I can to keep up. I had a LTHR on may 16, 2011 and a RTHR on May 14, 2012. Only 5 days in to side 2 but the post-op seems a little easier. I think it's because I know the routine. The first side surgery went well but i developed three HUGE water blisters the night of the surgery. Besides being painful, they did push back my rehab because of the infection concerns if they burst. Recovery was good with the usual bumps. I had terrible knee pain that started about two months out and lasted about two months. Massage really helped. By five months, with the exception of rare tweaks that leg felt good. Only disappointment is, I still can't independently lift that leg to tie shoes. Everything else is fine! Just wanted to let you know, since I see many posting about it, make sure you do not push it too much and if you have a PT who thinks its OlyMpics training! That knee pain can be really tough. Hopefully, it's just muscles and tendons that need to adjust.
Bob 40 hours ago
Special thanks to both Maggie and Barry for all your great suggestions and support... I will be sure to try them ...
Clearly, the message from most of you further along in the healing process is that
"Patience is a must, and that we all have to be grateful for the small victories and not be too hard on ourselves for the minor setbacks"
Pre-conceived expectations should be avoided and give the process due time. Listen to your own body and keep a positive outlook".
I think I'm starting to get it... lol