New Member

[GaliceGal]

Hi Everyone,

As you can see by my post title, I'm a newbie to the group. I wish that I would have found you prior to surgery! But, anyway, I'm here now.

I'm 2 weeks post-op LTHR (anterior approach). Going into surgery everything was a big question mark as to what the outcome would be-- I have chronic Lyme disease that has caused joint damage much like OA and RA combined. However, my joint spacing looked normal but we've tried every conceivable treatment option over the last 13 years. THR was the only thing left that could possibly relieve the pain I was in.

My surgery went well but interestingly the doc found that I had AVN (Avascular Necrosis) in a section of the lesser trochanter and the cartilage was literally flaking off. He said that normally the cartilage has to be sliced out but mine was just falling out. Bizarre! I don't know if the reason for that is known or not.

I had to travel 350 miles from home to have the surgery done so I won't see the surgeon until my 8 wk. post-op checkup. I'll ask him about the cartilage at that time. I was too goofy and in pain to do it the last time I saw him.

I'm doing well but am still having a tremendous amount of leg and muscle pain. It's not painful in the hip itself anymore, which is a relief. It gives me hope that when the post-op pain is gone, I can get back to a normal life. By the way, I'm only 40 yrs. old and have children, so a normal life looks really, really good right now!

Thanks for all of the great info on the board. I look forward to getting to know all of you a little better.

GaliceGal

 

[Tommy Utah]

Welcome on board here. I'm pretty new too. My 2nd THR was a week ago so we're classmates sort of. Lot's of good stuff here. Good luck with the rehab.

T

 

[JudyS]

Welcome GaliceGirl,

It is a wonderful forum you found. I had my right hip replaced on June 6th. I remember the muscle and ITB pain which was pretty bad. All a part of healing for some of us!!!
Do you have home pt? I did until I was 4 weeks out. Then on my own for a few weeks. Then I went to pt outside . They worked on my ITBand, which was still hurting. It does all get better quickly.

Welcome
Judy

 

[clwhit]

Welcome! You've found a great place! I, too, did not find this forum until after my surgery. I can tell you I've learned so much! People are great and informative. Will be excited to hear about your progress.

~Carol

 

[GaliceGal]

Thanks for the great welcomes, everyone! I appreciate it!

Can anyone give advice for relieving the muscle pain? I'm not allowed to get in my hot tub yet, but man, it's awfully tempting! (grin)

I stretch as much as I can, take hot showers, use muscle rubs (now that I'm off the Lovenox, which is an injectible blood thinner), and take Robaxin when I can't stand it anymore-- which is several times a day.

As for PT, my daughter goes and we've known the therapist for a long time so he gave me some exercises to do "off the record". My doc isn't a big believer in PT with the anterior approach-- says it isn't necessary, which I don't agree with so I'm going to ask for a PT Rx. The doc said it wasn't necessary prior to surgery and I didn't push it because I didn't know how I'd feel physically.

Again, thank you for the warm welcome(s) and please let me know what you suggest for the muscle pain. Any and all thoughts are welcome!

GaliceGal

 

[JudyS]

GaliceGal

My doc did not really think pt was necessary either. When it was ok for me to start really exercising, I started asking him questions about particular machines. I think he decided having someone help me (pt) would be the best. I did not end up using machines at that time, but they did the soft tissue work on my leg (muscle pain). Then ice. I also iced it at home. I massaged it also but of course did not make it painful and deep as the pt's did.
Oh yah and pain meds!!!!

Judy

 

[Tommy Utah]

With my first hip a couple months ago I was having some major muscle pains until a PT friend who also has had some massage therapy training gave me some deep muscle massages. She said that the compromised muscles will often go into spasm and stay in that state until you get some relief. For me the relief was instantaneous and my friend knew how to work around the still healing incision areas.

 

[GaliceGal]

Thanks for the thoughts on the muscle issues. I think that massage sounds wonderful. I think I will call around and see if there is anyone in my area that can work with my still-healing hip. It makes sense that the muscles don't know to relax. They've been traumatized!

I know that it takes me longer to heal in some situations. Chronic (Late Stage) Lyme is an auto-immune condition and it really interferes with the healing process. I am hoping that it doesn't slow me down too much.

I had to drive today because my DD was very ill and DH wasn't able to get home to drive her to the doctor. It went fine, although I am exhausted tonight! However, I couldn't wait to log on and see what was new with everyone!

I hope everyone is having a happy, healthy, pain-free evening!

Debra

 

[Laurie]

Hi Debra, I am 5 wks out from THR on right leg and for me the comfort level in the hip area got much better from wk 4 to 5. In the last couple days I can lie down on my right side (a big relief) and actually sleep on my stomach. The massage option does sound wonderful--in the beginning the pt staff massaged my incision and in a weird way it was great. Still like the ice electrical stimulation machine. I am curious about the difference in the anterior approach. How long is the incision? Is it on the front on your hip bone? I have the more traditional incision along side-about 6 inches. Still a little sore and numb but looking much better.

Have a good day.
Laurie

 

[johnspin]

Hi Everyone,

As you can see by my post title, I'm a newbie to the group. I wish that I would have found you prior to surgery! But, anyway, I'm here now.

I'm 2 weeks post-op LTHR (anterior approach). Going into surgery everything was a big question mark as to what the outcome would be-- I have chronic Lyme disease that has caused joint damage much like OA and RA combined. However, my joint spacing looked normal but we've tried every conceivable treatment option over the last 13 years. THR was the only thing left that could possibly relieve the pain I was in.

My surgery went well but interestingly the doc found that I had AVN (Avascular Necrosis) in a section of the lesser trochanter and the cartilage was literally flaking off. He said that normally the cartilage has to be sliced out but mine was just falling out. Bizarre! I don't know if the reason for that is known or not.

I had to travel 350 miles from home to have the surgery done so I won't see the surgeon until my 8 wk. post-op checkup. I'll ask him about the cartilage at that time. I was too goofy and in pain to do it the last time I saw him.

I'm doing well but am still having a tremendous amount of leg and muscle pain. It's not painful in the hip itself anymore, which is a relief. It gives me hope that when the post-op pain is gone, I can get back to a normal life. By the way, I'm only 40 yrs. old and have children, so a normal life looks really, really good right now!

Thanks for all of the great info on the board. I look forward to getting to know all of you a little better.

GaliceGal

I Am 5 weeks post op tomorrow. Just saw doctor yesterday and now have no restrictions ! I am also in my 40's and had previous surgery on my hip-pins in and pins out with a major infection as child. I can't believe how great I am doing. I am driving "right hip" I can walk 1.5 miles and I even mowed my lawn yesterday. Like others I am experiencing knee pain. My leg was turned out about 60 degrees for the past 20 years. My doctor thinks they pain will ease as the muscles and tendons get stronger and realign themselves. I had my surgery in NY City at Hospital for special Surgery-ranked #1 in the country for orthopedics and lowest infection rate in the country. My be a routine surgery but well worth the trip to NY. 3 days in hospital and only 10 days with a cane.
the more exercise you do the less pain you will have. I feel better everyday!! Good Luck

 

[BigDog Mom]

Hi Laurie,
I am 2 weeks today from bi-lats with the direct anterior approach. My incisions are about three fingers width below what we commonly refer to as our hip bone. They are 10cm each. I have had no restrictions at all. Except when my body says that's enough. ;)
The day of surgery my joints were more stable then before surgery. I used the walker the day of surgery. The next six days I used my crutches. Then moved on to a cane. I ditched the cane on Sunday. I have been going up and down stairs since day two. I do my exercises and go for three walks a day - weather permitting.
Now the caveat to this is I am 48 pretty fit and other wise healthy. So the home PT basically said I didn't need her and I agree. Tomorrow I will go to my first outside PT but I am guessing that will not be long term. But I will be working pretty hard at the gym with what ever exercises they give me.
The early studies that I have read comparing the different surgical approaches say that at about 8 weeks out, there is little difference in recovery but the anterior seems to be easier on the patient earlier. (Not having any movement restrictions has been a biggie for me) Though I would think a lot of that depends on the skill of the Surgeon regardless of approach.

Best wishes,
donna

 

[JudyS]

galicegirl

The deep tissue massage worked for me, but it was not anywhere near comfortable. Just a warning that it really hurt!!!
But, well worth it .

Donna
I am so glad you are doing so well. At 8 weeks with the posterior approach, I was still needing pain meds!!!

Judy

 

[Laurie]

Donna, Thanks for the detailed response. I never thought I would be so fascinated by hip replacement topics!!! Am switching between this website and work email--guess which is my preference!!

Very impressive, esp for 2 hips at once. If ever I need my left hip replaced will definitely look into your type surgery even though I am very satisfied with my biomet hip and surgeon so far. Don't know how common the anterior approach is in this area (northern NJ).

I will be going to the gym myself today. Am trying to ease back into it all as my hip restrictions were lifted as of 1 month.

Laurie

 

[JudyS]

Laurie,
What type of incision did you have? My restrictions were not lifted until 3 months. Of course all surgeons have their own plans.
Judy

 

[BigDog Mom]

Laurie,
I know. This forum is so terrific with so many diverse experiences and wonderful people, you just can't help but want to know what is going on here.
You are not all that far from me. I am just south of Allentown Pa. I did go into Philly to The Rothman Institute to find a surgeon. It was definitely worth the hassle of the drive.
I am starting back to work tomorrow. I am fortunate in that I can work from home so I am flexible. I am ready though, working should hopefully keep out of trouble (doing too much too fast).
I do have to confess that I do cheat. The same bad gene pool that gave me the hip dysplasia and the OA also gave me a ridiculously high pain tolerance.
We have a huge dog show this weekend and I know my "friends" have a pool going as to whether they will see me running a dog around the ring or not. BUT as good as I feel I have no plans on risking the success I have experienced so far. AT six weeks though, watch out!
Ah Judy you will get there, I know you will! Every one has their own trail through the woods. ;)
I wish I could take more time to relax but my life just isn't arranged that way. I am not complaining but I need to be working so we can keep our wonderful little house.

Best wishes,
Donna

 

[JudyS]

Donna

I am glad you are keeping out of this first show. I know that must be hard. I know I do too much too fast too. My hip is doing great now. A few twinges here and there.
My knees are the bad guys now. And of course my spine. Just part of the game of life!!

What do you do from home? I need to have a new plan as I got axed from my job as the end of the last school year.
Speaking of twinges, my butt muscle is twitching this morning!!

Have a great day. Me and my buddy are heading to the trail. At 1 1/2 miles up there is a great stream for buddy to drink, cool off and play in. I just bat of the tiny flies!!

Judy

 

[Josephine]

GaliceGal, welcome to the forum. Glad you found us anyway.

I'm 2 weeks post-op LTHR (anterior approach). Going into surgery everything was a big question mark as to what the outcome would be-- I have chronic Lyme disease that has caused joint damage much like OA and RA combined. However, my joint spacing looked normal but we've tried every conceivable treatment option over the last 13 years. THR was the only thing left that could possibly relieve the pain I was in.

I've actually never heard of Lyme disease before but it sounds nasty.

My surgery went well but interestingly the doc found that I had AVN (Avascular Necrosis) in a section of the lesser trochanter and the cartilage was literally flaking off. He said that normally the cartilage has to be sliced out but mine was just falling out. Bizarre! I don't know if the reason for that is known or not.

I had to travel 350 miles from home to have the surgery done so I won't see the surgeon until my 8 wk. post-op checkup. I'll ask him about the cartilage at that time. I was too goofy and in pain to do it the last time I saw him.

I'm puzzled here as the lesser trochanter doesn't actually HAVE any cartilage on it so I'm at a loss to know what he actually meant. Are you sure he said trochanter and not something else - acetabulum, perhaps? That would make more sense.

I'm doing well but am still having a tremendous amount of leg and muscle pain. It's not painful in the hip itself anymore, which is a relief. It gives me hope that when the post-op pain is gone, I can get back to a normal life. By the way, I'm only 40 yrs. old and have children, so a normal life looks really, really good right now!

Thanks for all of the great info on the board. I look forward to getting to know all of you a little better.

GaliceGal

Are you taking enough pain meds? Many people seem to think they should only be on them for a week or two when the truth is they need them for a good month and sometimes more.

 

[Laurie]

Judy and all,
Believe it or not, I don't know if I have a "lateral" or "posterior" incision. It runs alongside and sorta towards the back of my hip for about 6 inches. Healing very well now, at 5 wks. Dr. initially called my surgery "minimally invasive" but seems it was quite standard. The hip restrictions and timing may have more to do with the type of hip--mine is metal on metal and the ball is quite large???? Supposed to be very stable.

My big deal today is that I tied my shoe with leg bent and lifting straight up for first time in about 2 yrs--and with no pain. Big day for me, yeah!!!

Josephine,Lyme disease must be much more prevelent in US--hard to believe you haven't heard of it...perhaps not in UK?

No dogs, just cats, in my family. Beautiful day here and will get out later.

Laurie

 

[GaliceGal]

Hi Debra, I am 5 wks out from THR on right leg and for me the comfort level in the hip area got much better from wk 4 to 5. In the last couple days I can lie down on my right side (a big relief) and actually sleep on my stomach. The massage option does sound wonderful--in the beginning the pt staff massaged my incision and in a weird way it was great. Still like the ice electrical stimulation machine. I am curious about the difference in the anterior approach. How long is the incision? Is it on the front on your hip bone? I have the more traditional incision along side-about 6 inches. Still a little sore and numb but looking much better.

Have a good day.
Laurie

Hi Laurie,

The anterior incision is, indeed, right in front as the name implies. It starts just below the iliac crest (hip bone you can feel) and is 7 inches long. With the anterior approach, the incision is usually a bit smaller (around 4-5 inches), or so the doc told me. Unfortunately once he started working on me he needed to make the incision a bit larger because of the mess he was encountering in the joint itself. He had to take a bit more of the femur than usual because of the AVN and as I said before, the cartilage was flaking off and was a mess. He wanted to be sure that he addressed everything so he made the incision a bit larger. Okay by me-- I don't want to have to go through this again!

My incision is numb to the touch, but I think the sensation will return because I can appreciate pressure. The incision looks pretty good, though. They used sutures inside, but "glued" the outside part of the incision with a surgical glue.

Great news-- I called the doc's office today and asked if I could use my hot tub. The answer was YES! as long as someone is there as I get in and out, just to be sure I don't fall. Oh, wow. I'm so excited! Just to be on the safe side, when DH gets home we're going to drain it and put in fresh chemicals, clean filters, etc., etc. (it's due anyway) so I won't be using it until tomorrow, but that's okay. At least I have it to look forward to! I know that it will help with the muscle pain in my leg.

GaliceGal

 

[GaliceGal]

Josephine- The lesser trochanter doesn't have cartilage, but the acetabulum does. Sorry if I wasn't clear on that. When I referenced both of them I was talking about the hip joint in general. GaliceGal