Tall guy...I apologize for the long reply....your story hit home. I can sympathize with your situation. And I understand how difficult it is with your job requirements. You have accomplished far more than most could during your recovery time and you have proven what determination, confidence and understanding of what a prosthetic hip can do and also your new hip has its limitations while healing. You have a good understanding how to keep the bone in good shape as well as the soft tissue which can take quit a hit from surgery and with prolonged use as THR can leave us using the new hip joint in a different way than before.
I learned to be mindful of how to use the new hip. I’m sure you understand that more than most. Even though it has given you mobility and flexibility, use of the joint has its acceptable limits, which are different for each of us. In many cases it takes well up to a full year or more to heal and build up strength needed which can be very frustrating and yet walking is your best friend and TIME....
Try spring shoes they take the pressure off the joints improve walking and core strength. Change your shoes often and also try soft cushy insoles with good arch supports and be sure your walking correctly and have good ankle, knees and even back supports with good upright posture. Ask you doctor about hip support while lifting.It all adds up and really makes a big difference when on your feet all day. TIME...
I see you are almost at the year mark a few more months can make a big difference and don’t give up healing it is still taking place. Every day is another day I feel lucky to have mobility and there may be some limitations as this will get better for you as your body/mind adjusts . Lifting is the biggest challenge and I totally get it. I lift in a mindful manner (by planning ahead bringing objects with me to help maneuver heavy objects)wearing joint supports and using balance of the object and the weight of the object to move without lifting the entire object. I lift bales of hay from 40-60 pounds. You’d be surprised how using the old bean by balance and centrifical force has helped me move them over the years. Keeping core and upper body strength in check is a whopper to help move and lift.Be mindful also of the other hip, has it been evaluated. There is short term healing and there is long term healing, this is long term. TIME...
In many cases it all finally comes together no matter what or how you manouver, or what your techniques to accomplish the task or to the many degrees of accomplishments made so far. You have come this far and the rest will come.TIME....
If there is a chance you can take a vaca , for a little rest from what your doing to hit the refresh button so to speak.... take a few days off.TIME...
There is more healing to come as many things are coming together for you and more will be there ... time is your best friend...take it one day at a time. Sending hugs, support and healing angels your way.
United States
