Pelvic Tilt after Hip replacement?

[tooYoung4Hip]

I went back to the doctor for my 8 week post op checkup. My surgeon did an xray and went on to tell me that my leg lenght difference is 'actual' and that I know have a pelvic tilt. I am sooo frustrated by this as I did not have that issue before...but not really sure what it is going to mean either! Anyone else out there have this condition before or after surgery?

 

[ruthz]

Hi TooYoung4Hip:

You have a right to be frustrated - anatomically, your pelvic alignment has changed since your hip replacement surgery! Now the question is what to do about it.

I suggest you get an evaluation from a physical therapist you like, and move forward aggressively from there. You need to get your body as fit and balanced as possible so that you can have your active, pain free life back again.

I found that for me, the best post op activities to get going again were the Pliates reformer work, yoga, and swimming.

From reading your prior posts I do know that you have a post op leg length discrepency which is actual and not functional. The reformer work will help you deal with the uneven pelvis by helping you get as balanced as possible and strengthening your core muscles, back, glutes, hamstrings, etc. It is a very good tool for working with "new equipment" post op. I suggest you go to a sports oriented physical therapy practice that uses the reformer, and not just to a Pilates studio.

I know this is VERY hard for you - you didn't expect to have this problem post op. Remember that your hip joint has been repaired, and you are strong and healthy. I'm rooting for you. You can do this!

Take good care,
Ruth Z

 

[VirgoC]

Hi 2 Young!
Not to fret....I too have a pelvic tilt and probably had it before my new hip although it was never diagnosed. I have been doing PT with no change and now have a 1/4 inch shoe lift on my other foot which has alleviated all problems with leg length discrepancy. It has also stopped my operated leg knee from slipping and feeling out of line. It is a simple fix if PT does not do the trick. It's wonderful to walk normally again even it if means having a shoe lift on one foot!!!!
VirgoC

 

[pszulik]

Thank you all for your advice, I see my surgeon next week. Hopefully I don't have the issues such as a shorter leg or a pelvic tilt...Is there anything my surgeon can do to avoid these things...Makes me think the daily pain may be better than the defects of surgery.