THR My Four-Year Hip Journey

[Eman85]

I think you'll find that our minds are the biggest problem when it comes to this surgery. Our mind thinks we should be all healed, It's been over a month already! Our minds believe all of the people that tell the stories about miraculous recoveries others have had and then ask why it's taking you so long. Our minds think every odd feeling means we've screwed up the implant and we fear the worst case scenario has happened. Now you need to be careful that your mind doesn't allow you to think that you can do whatever you want. Stretching is good in moderation. The possibility of dislocation is real despite having restrictions lifted.

 

[Marvin L]

Take it easy. I’m a couple weeks ahead of you, as soon as my dr gave me the 6 week lifting of precautions, I thought I should be able to cross my legs, put on socks, tie shoe laces and the I went to PT and I paid for it. I’ve been resting n icing all weekend and feeling a little better. Your so young, take your time , chill on the exercises. And you will be fine. I’ve read on hear about the clicking and I don’t recall it ever being a problem. Slow and steady, as they say on here.

 

[Layla]

Happy Two Month Annversary!
Nice update a couple weeks ago. Thanks!
You're making great strides...keep it up and have a great rest of the Summer.
@BDS

 

[ForumUser]

BDS,

Have had L and R THRs, the first almost 20 yrs ago, the second on 14 May.

Even now, three months out I find every day a bit better - more flexibility, mainly. I have not quite forgotten about the new equipment, but that day is approaching ... one day at a time.

I am now going to start working on extension and strength and flexibility ... everything feels right now.

I think it feels right because it just takes x time where x is different for everyone.

A month ago on driving trip to Colorado from Florida no pain, but stiff after 4 hours at a time driving. And, when walking in national parks I was pretty conscious of height differences in the ground - returning now from fishing in Ontario with two flights to get there and another 7 hours driving - on and off boats, pushing off from shore, clambering around over rods and junk in the boats ... waaaay more comfortable.

It takes time ... walk, walk, walk ... get stronger and more confident ... then think about how GREAT it is to be mobile!

 

[BDS]

Hello all,

Thanks again for all of the kind words and support on this site. I'm 9 months post-op from my Right total hip replacement now. My hip actually feels great, and doesn't give me hardly any issues at all, just occasional tightness. The last time I saw my surgeon was at the 6 month check up and they said my x-rays looked good (that was 3 months ago). I was doing plenty of swimming, and elliptical/biking for exercise. It's still pretty frustrating as I can't walk too far without being in a lot of pain, as that's the last thing I want to be able to do in my recovery. However over the past 6 weeks, my right knee (same side as the operated leg) has gotten extremely painful everytime I walk. I get a ton of pain on the underside of my knee cap and above my knee cap everytime I get up from a sitting position, and I also get some pain in my lower thigh, above my knee. My hip still feels good, but the knee/thigh pain has been really bad, and I'm not quite sure what to do about it, or if this is a normal thing. Has anyone else experienced this during their recovery? Is this a sign of a loose stem? I don't currently have a follow up appointment scheduled with my surgeon. I just wanted to see if anyone else experienced this. I have never experienced knee or thigh problems before.

 

[Layla]

Hello @BDS
I am sorry you’re struggling somewhat.
Please consider phoning the office of your OS to talk to your surgeon, or a member of his team. I’m sure through some questioning they’ll be able to offer you the reassurance you’re seeking, or have you schedule an office visit. Wondering if you’ve had your knee x-rayed?
Stay in touch....we’re here for you.

 

[BDS]

Thank you. I did phone my OS office and make an appointment like you advised. I'm just kind of freaking out, frustrated, and worst case scenario in my head. The anterior lower thigh and knee pain is really intense, with stiffness every time I get out of a chair. I'm taking ibuprofen and tylenol alternating, as well as icing as much as I can but it doesn't seem to be getting better. My doc said previously that operative leg (right) is 3mm shorter now than my left and I do feel a bit off when I walk. It feels like I'm constantly hyperextended on my right knee (same side as my right THR). That is my guess as to what is causing this. It has also made my plantar fasciitis in my left heel way worse. I dont want to get or have knee arthritis now, and I don't know what to do. Sorry for my rambling. Has anyone else been through this? Any advice?

 

[Eman85]

I've had soreness down the outside of my thigh on my 2yo hip if I do certain exercises. I had pain at the kneecap and soreness to the touch down my outer thigh on that side for quite some time post op. The kneecap would also have a burning sensation just above it. In my case it seemed to be the IT band which terminates at the knee.

 

[Layla]

Happy One Year Anniversary!
How are you doing since you last posted? I hope the pain you described has resolved.
We‘d love to hear from you as time allows. Take care, stay safe and well.
@BDS