Hi
@S00zd
It's nice to have you back. I can't help but wonder if you've struggled all along due to your higher activity
level. Looking back through your thread refreshed my memory. I recall being concerned early on because you were pretty restless right out of the gate. If you look back to Post 5 when you were only two weeks post op you mentioned you were back to all of your normal chores aside from vacuuming. You also mentioned in the same post that you couldn't really rest much because "it's not your nature". At that point in time, rest was exactly what your body needed. And your body is currently letting you know that it needs rest by you mentioning in your latest Post 96 that your stamina is shot.
You also mentioned in Post 96 that you stopped going to the gym. How long ago..was it only recently? Wondering what low key dance class means to you...what type of dance, how often?
How much sea swimming and how often? Because you're an active person, your "low key" and "a bit of" sea swimming may qualify as overdoing it for many and posssibly it's too much for you at this point in recovery. I'm also wondering if you're physically engaging in your home re-modeling project, bending and lifting things on a regular basis?
When laying on your non op side, have you tried a pillow between your legs, so your op leg doesn't feel as weighty as you described? I'd suggest a body pillow. They are inexpensive and great for using in between legs while falling asleep. There is enough pillow to bend your leg at the knee slightly, making it very comfortable for sleeping. Just a suggestion you may want to consider.
You're right about a good majority not being in pain at 8 months post op. However, that majority most likely didn't engage as heavily and as early on as you did. You're still in recovery, your body is not healed. We're often reminded that full recovery takes up to a year and even longer for some. I understand you don't like icing but it is very effective in relieving pain and it may be helpful if you view it as "medicine", rather than just something you don't like and refuse to do. Please consider it as you try to relax when you're able.
If you're not getting any answers or satisfaction from either your surgeon or GP, possibly it's time you find new doctors you can entrust your care with. We're not getting any younger and you may as well find yourself a good Primary Care Physician now so you (hopefully) have one you trust when you really need him / her.
I'm not a medical professional but my best guest given the history you shared is that you're not recovered, you've engaged too heartily all along and are now dealing with chronic pain as a result of not sitting it out when you should have. It's not too late to make changes. I'd start with dedicated rest, ice, and OTC pain relievers for a time to see if you obtain any relief. I'd stop all exercise, sea swimming, lifting, etc for a several weeks and see if you notice any improvement. If you don't, I'd seek the opinion of a medical professional even if it means finding a new one who will listen and address your issues.
Best wishes for comfort and relief as you move forward.