Hi to everyone who has offered so much help and support! I'm now 4 weeks with my new hip, and so pleased! Progressing every day with a bit more activity & exercise, and backing off when my body says it's too much. Biggest challenge is figuring out how much to push in order to regain some strength and energy without getting too sore. I'm walking outdoors when it's not pouring, twice/day, for about 3/4 mile loop around the neighborhood. Doesn't seem like much, but I still get tired, but not as winded and slightly lightheaded as several days ago. I also started on the stationary bike this week, backwards, with no tension, as advised in the PT info I was given. I'm up doing laundry, cooking a bit, and grocery shopping with hubby.
I have no restrictions, except PT handed me a sheet before I left the hospital showing that I should not turn my foot inward at the same time as I reach down on the outside of my leg. . .basically I can reach as much as I tolerate as long as I keep arms inside knees. I've managed to put my sock on myself the last few days with a certain amount of foot wiggling. I can pick things up from the floor easier than I have in a very, very long time!
The worst part at this point are the compression stockings! I'm supposed to wear them for 6 weeks and I hate them! My skin is dry and flaking under them ,they're hot and uncomfortable, and hubby still has to put the one on for me.
So, a couple of questions -
@Josephine - is there any conclusive evidence of benefit from compression hose after 4 weeks post op? I dug into the literature and found lots of strong data on benefits in reducing DVT when used early post op ( first 2 weeks) in THR patients, but couldn't find anything about more extended use. I know my OS is very proud of the low DVT rate in his patients (<0.5%), but I wonder if the 6 weeks of ASA 325mg/daily isn't the more important factor at this point. . .or is that wishful thinking on my part??
I know everyone is different, but I'm wondering if I should be pushing a little harder on conditioning exercises? The OS in this area don't much believe in PT post op, which is likely fine, since I think Josephine is correct in saying that walking will do it, and the rest sorts itself out. . .however, it does leave one without much guidance as to how hard to push. . .
Also, how long is it reasonable to expect to be able to comfortably reach my foot to put on socks, reach to shave legs, do nail care, etc??
Duh!! I just went in to the BS library section and found the section Josephine had put together on home PT with timelines & exercises. Thanks,
@Josephine ! I think I'm pretty much on track!