THR Erushka Post-Op #2
- Thread starter Erushka
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United States
Erushka
junior member
Had my 6 week OS visit yesterday. Had to wait 2 hours for a 10 minute visit, but that was not the doctor's fault.
I've been discharged from his care. He recommended a one year follow up, and then every 5 years after that.
I still have a few issues, and I'll mention those and his response to them since his answers may be of general interest.
Meds. I'm still taking 5-6 oxycodone per day, mostly to ward off withdrawal symptoms since I have very little pain. OS recommended gradual decrease of dosage over a couple of weeks. I have no problem with that since I enjoy a clear head, but have had some withdrawal symptoms, and they are...not fun.
Mobility. Not using the cane at all at home, still using it on uneven surfaces like my lawn, still using it when walking up or down hill. OS says this is very common at this stage, and will gradually sort itself out over a couple of months. He recommended some balance exercises.
Sleep. Fall asleep easily, but wake up several times each night and can't fall asleep for at least 1/2 hour when awakened. Again, very common, should sort itself out over time. Melatonin helps.
Appetite. Still have the occasional bout of mild nausea. Again, should improve on its own in several weeks.
Physical Stamina. Tried to do 10 pushups the other day, it nearly wore me out--could easily do 25 pre-surgery. Walking long distances is very helpful, as is gradually returning to usual exercise program.
Implant Longevity. OS says that some new evidence suggests that my prostheses have at least a 30 year lifespan, which means that they will probably outlive me. Of course the jury is still out, but it would be nice to not face more surgery at age 90.
In summary, the right hip THR has been much easier than the left hip, which was done in 2012. A very short hospital stay (12 hours), a postero-lateral surgical approach which spared almost all muscles, excellent medication choices, early (and careful) PT, and a responsive, upbeat treatment approach all made the difference. I was on my feet 2 hours after surgery, and felt like I could walk a mile. In 2012 I didn't want to bend my leg for 5 days after surgery and felt miserable for weeks. Attitude is so important.
Thank you, thank you to all BS folks who have supported me and provided invaluable advice.
I've been discharged from his care. He recommended a one year follow up, and then every 5 years after that.
I still have a few issues, and I'll mention those and his response to them since his answers may be of general interest.
Meds. I'm still taking 5-6 oxycodone per day, mostly to ward off withdrawal symptoms since I have very little pain. OS recommended gradual decrease of dosage over a couple of weeks. I have no problem with that since I enjoy a clear head, but have had some withdrawal symptoms, and they are...not fun.
Mobility. Not using the cane at all at home, still using it on uneven surfaces like my lawn, still using it when walking up or down hill. OS says this is very common at this stage, and will gradually sort itself out over a couple of months. He recommended some balance exercises.
Sleep. Fall asleep easily, but wake up several times each night and can't fall asleep for at least 1/2 hour when awakened. Again, very common, should sort itself out over time. Melatonin helps.
Appetite. Still have the occasional bout of mild nausea. Again, should improve on its own in several weeks.
Physical Stamina. Tried to do 10 pushups the other day, it nearly wore me out--could easily do 25 pre-surgery. Walking long distances is very helpful, as is gradually returning to usual exercise program.
Implant Longevity. OS says that some new evidence suggests that my prostheses have at least a 30 year lifespan, which means that they will probably outlive me. Of course the jury is still out, but it would be nice to not face more surgery at age 90.
In summary, the right hip THR has been much easier than the left hip, which was done in 2012. A very short hospital stay (12 hours), a postero-lateral surgical approach which spared almost all muscles, excellent medication choices, early (and careful) PT, and a responsive, upbeat treatment approach all made the difference. I was on my feet 2 hours after surgery, and felt like I could walk a mile. In 2012 I didn't want to bend my leg for 5 days after surgery and felt miserable for weeks. Attitude is so important.
Thank you, thank you to all BS folks who have supported me and provided invaluable advice.
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