I'm 48 years old and I'm getting ready to experience a THR (right side) on 1/12/17. I've fought it for 3 years after visiting four different orthopedic surgeons (OS) in that time. Two advised me to do it, one said you'll now when the pain has won, and the last guy treated a rock climber so I went with him. Don't ask. This time I just felt like I had the right doctor. He told me my hip looked worse than one of his 70 year old patients. I had no fall to blame. I do think genes and all my years of tennis, skiing, and sitting at a stationary job caused this wonderful DX. I've tried all the holistic approaches I could. I do have a new love for aquatics and cycling. Acupuncture has been amazing too. I successfully changed my diet to avoid inflammatory foods. I lost 50lbs (give up the cheese folks!) in one year. All was good. Then, on a lovely day in Nov of 2015, I was hit with the big "C". Luckily, I was very blessed to have excellent medical staff and care. I'm NED with two reconstruction surgeries to go, but I put them on hold to deal with my hip. To tell you the truth, I've been more worried about how long it would take me to get back in the pool after this surgery. How crazy is that? I just can't get too lost in all the "what ifs". When your DX is the c word, you gain a better perspective on what choices matter most.
I do realize my osteoarthritis has kicked my butt. I know this THR will change my life. No longer will I stand for 15 min and have a sleepless night of ice packs and uncomfortable lift offs from chairs or beds.This site has given me great hope. I know I may never sit cross legged again, but that's okay. Honestly, I still thinking of a day I don't walk with a limp. Please ladies let me know your stories. I'm inspired by what I've read. I debated putting off the surgery until the summer. Like I need more info about what's going to happen. The THR will be posterior. My surgeon says it's the best method to get back in the game and no cutting of muscle. Not sure how pretty the scar will be, but I already realized I could care less about battle wounds. I just want quality of life.
United States
