silver515
02-22-2005, 08:24 PM
I had hip replacement Jan 4th...doing really well...walking with a cane, trying not to use it around the house. ANyway, I was wondering...we are thinking of going to Greece and Italy in July...that would be 6 months after surgery...it would mean alot of walking, which I normally like. Does anyone know if at 6 months I would be able to do alot of walking...
Sponsor
balleteach
02-23-2005, 11:11 PM
Hi, Glad that you posted and are doing so well. Isn't it great to be pain free? As far as traveling goes, you should be fine. Maybe it would be good to wait another month or two and see how much more you can do before deciding for sure. The worst part of a long trip like that will be sitting for so long on the airplane. You will have to get up alot and walk around. I remember getting so stiff and uncomfortable sitting too long at one time. It actually feels better to walk and move around. If you go and are walking alot, you can always rest as much as you need to. I know that the first year is the hardest because the hip can dislocate more easily if you have an accident or trauma to the area. After a year, the hip is much more stable and the chance of dislocation lessens. I don't think I would travel that far the first year and I'm pretty adventurous. Being in another country only six months out of hip replacement would make me a little nervous in case anything went wrong. Now, I would go anywhere I wanted. You will be fine no matter what you decide to do. Check with your Dr. and see what he has to say. Keep posting, balleteach
silver515
02-24-2005, 05:32 PM
HI Balleteach...I knew you would answer. THanks. I have spoken to my physical therapist and she feels I will be ok. SHe said I may get tired and have to rest sometimes , but that is ok. I didn't think of the long flight..sitting that long will be tough, but I guess I can get up and walk around if I have to. My husband and I are reallly looking forward to this trip...I may not be totally up to my normal self, but hopefully pretty close. I know I have to be really careful about dislocation....I try to follow the hip precautions all the time....
balleteach
03-04-2005, 11:14 AM
Hi, Just wondering how you are doing and if you have decided for sure about your trip. Are you driving yet? Your hip will get better and better as time goes on. I'm glad you had a good result. Some people never really recover fully because of different reasons. I was soooo lucky with my hip replacement. It really feels totally normal now. Sometimes I forget that it's not my real hip. I'm going on ten years this coming July with just alittle wear and tear on the lining of the socket. The material used on your hip is more state of the art now than mine was at the time, so hopefully it will last your whole life. Mine was the new titanium, so it is pretty modern too. I was fifty when mine was done. Post sometime with updates... balleteach
Newhip@47
03-10-2005, 01:19 AM
Hi Silver, sounds like you are doing well and very glad to find someone who had hip replacement surgery. I am 47 and had hip replacement surgery 4 weeks ago. The reason being is that when I was younger, I was involved in an accident and osteoarthritis formed around the socket to the point of total discomfort and having to rely on pain meds in order to function at work which consists of standing on a cement floor and moving very heavy parts from one point to another. Feel better, was wondering do you still have or have you experienced swelling in the area of the surgery? My doctor wants me off of work for at least 6 months, and with you being 6 months post op, you will have no problems whatsoever with your new hip. If it is cemented on, you most definitely will have no problems whatsoever, in fact I believe that a lot of walking will be of most benefit for you. I am walking with a cane now, and got rid of the walker last week, and will be in therapy for another month. It was a battle for me at first after the surgery as I lost over 2 pints of blood, but after the transfusion, things went very well. Good luck and enjoy your vacation,,, Gods speed!!!
MrsLinda
03-22-2005, 05:05 PM
balleteach - may I ask a question? I'm 55 and I had my left hip replaced in August. With the exception of stairs, I feel pretty good. How long did it take you to totally recover. I'm having problems with stairs and any movement that brings the leg up and over. Like stepping over my dog. :) The Orthopedic Dr. has taken several xrays and keeps telling me the new hip looks great and he's perplexed. But I have this pain in the groin area when I lift the leg up and over like I said. No problems walking. He seems to think it's muscular and that it will evenutally go away. Any ideas????
balleteach
03-22-2005, 08:15 PM
MrsLinda, I would tend to agree with the doctor about the discomfort being muscle related. They would see any problems with the hip on the x-ray. It does take the first year to totally recuperate, even though you feel well and are getting around good. I healed very quickly, but I do remember the first year was the hardest. Be sure to do any exercises that can strengthen that area and keep walking and moving around.I still get stiff and sore from sitting too long and I also have at times felt muscular discomfort through the years. Does your pain feel different than before the surgery? It sounds as if your body is adjusting to the implant and things will get better as time goes on. Be sure to keep the thigh muscles strong and don't carry extra weight. Keep posting with updates or questions. Good luck, balleteach
I know how hard it is to be patient!!
I know how hard it is to be patient!!
MrsLinda
03-22-2005, 09:33 PM
balletech - thank you for your quick reply! Oh the pain is totally different from what I had prior to the surgery. The pain is in the upper groin area but completely across the "top" of the thigh if you can picture the area.
I guess I thought that since it's been 8 months now and I'm walking and "sitting in my tub" now :D that I should be doing stairs well also. I couldn't wait to take a "bath" instead of just a shower. I finally got up the nerve and manuvered myself down into the tub without bending the knees too much.
Thanks for listening and if I have more questions I'll definately ask. I appreciate having others to talk to who've been through the same ordeal! :)
I guess I thought that since it's been 8 months now and I'm walking and "sitting in my tub" now :D that I should be doing stairs well also. I couldn't wait to take a "bath" instead of just a shower. I finally got up the nerve and manuvered myself down into the tub without bending the knees too much.
Thanks for listening and if I have more questions I'll definately ask. I appreciate having others to talk to who've been through the same ordeal! :)
silver515
03-22-2005, 09:44 PM
WOW this is a great conversation. I had my hip replacement ll weeks ago. I am doing very well...no cane and more energy as time goes by. I do get groin pain sometimes and my quads feel sore. I am done with pt and just went to the gym for the first time in months yesterday...feel like I ran a marathon, although my workout was nothing like it normally was. I know it is going to take a year to be feeling "normal " again....but not having the pain that I had before surgery is amazing.
balleteach
03-22-2005, 11:18 PM
Hi again, It is hard to believe that it will be 10yrs. this July since my hip-replacement. The implant feels so much like a natural part of my body, that I sometimes forget it's artificial. Hopefully, I'll get many more years before I have to have it replaced. My Dr. said that when it wears out, they will only have to replace the socket because the implant into the thigh stays put. The recovery is a lot quicker which is good, because I'll be older by then. I really like my Dr. and told him he has to stick around to do the next one. He's 10yrs younger then I am so I'm sure he will be there for me.At this point in time, there is a little, normal wear on the plastic socket. When it is replaced, he said they have an even better material that is used. Maybe both of you have the more up-to-date hip replacement and it will never have to be replaced!!!How soon did you go back to driving? I was back teaching ballet, without demonstrating too much at 11 weeks and within the year could really function pretty well.I hope both of you keep posting. I like to hear about your progress. Silver, are you still going to Greece? Take care, balleteach
MrsLinda
03-23-2005, 07:43 AM
Morning...
balleteach - I couldn't wait to drive. I think it was around 10 weeks before I attempted it. My challange was getting into the vehicle. We have a Dodge Durango and it's "very high up". Since it was the left hip, I could step up on the running board with the right leg, and manuver my "butt" in very carefully. Then I'd "help" the left leg in. Even today I still climb up on the running board. It's just easier.
I believe my implant is titanium steel and the "ball" is some sort of ceramic.
Silver - a trip to Greece?? How wonderful. But are you up to it???
Oh I'll keep posting. I always manage to come up with some sort of question! ;)
balleteach - I couldn't wait to drive. I think it was around 10 weeks before I attempted it. My challange was getting into the vehicle. We have a Dodge Durango and it's "very high up". Since it was the left hip, I could step up on the running board with the right leg, and manuver my "butt" in very carefully. Then I'd "help" the left leg in. Even today I still climb up on the running board. It's just easier.
I believe my implant is titanium steel and the "ball" is some sort of ceramic.
Silver - a trip to Greece?? How wonderful. But are you up to it???
Oh I'll keep posting. I always manage to come up with some sort of question! ;)
balleteach
03-23-2005, 09:03 PM
MrsLinda, I remember when I went back to driving. I was nervous at first because it was around 6 or 7 weeks for me. Also, I drove a volkswagon jetta stick shift, so I had to use my left leg a bit more than an automatic.The thing that I found I had to do was use a cushion because of the bucket seat.The cushion gave me more support and the angle of my leg downward was much more comfortable.I still use a cushion for driving because I can't stand sitting so low. I also use a pillow at the computer. I still like that extra support. I've been thinking back about what you said about your discomfort. I seem to remember feeling the muscles in my thigh taking time to totally strengthen when I lifted my leg. I also felt stiff. My body gradually adapted and felt much more normal as more time passed. I bet you will feel much better as the months go by. Just try to stay in good shape, walk, and take calcium, magnesium, and zinc for your bones. I also take boron supplements, along with all my other vitamins. When I went to give blood for my surgery, I met a woman on her fourth hip-replacement. I was flabbergasted, after all we only have two hips!! She told me that she had osteoporosis so severely in her bones that the rod wouldn't grow into the femur and she had to keep getting both hips replaced. She walked with a cane. That made such a huge impact on me that I decided to do everything I could to have a positive result. I even went on hormone replacement for the estrogen benefits for my bones. Let's keep posting and stay in touch, balleteach
MrsLinda
03-23-2005, 11:26 PM
balleteach - I just love driving. I was bitting at the bit to get into my car. When I was in the rehabilitation hospital, part of my OT was learning how to get into and out of the car. Well that was fine for most, but I have a SUV and a high one at that!! Well, my therepist was a doll and he managed to convience the Security Guards to allow him to use their Security Vehicle for my sessions. This way when it came time for me to go home I could safely get in and out of my Durango.
I had an appointment downtown today and since I live in New York City, that means taking the subway. And that also meant stairs; lots of stairs. Then to add insult to injury, in my rush to get to where I needed to be I got on the wrong train. So I had to back track and go up and down more stairs!! :( But I just walked through it and considered it my therepy for the day. It's funny....I start going up pretty good, then as I progress up the stairs the tightness turns into pain. That's where I worry....what if (famous and dangerous words) the implant is just the slightest tiny bit off and that's what's causing the pain. But I would hope my doctor would be able to determine that from looking at the xray's.
I'm taking calcium supplements and do alot of walking. I've even started a morning routine after my son goes to school where I go for a walk. I either go for the paper or hit the local grocery store for little incidentals.
Well time for me to say goodnight. I look forward to "talking" with you tomorrow! Have a good evening.
I had an appointment downtown today and since I live in New York City, that means taking the subway. And that also meant stairs; lots of stairs. Then to add insult to injury, in my rush to get to where I needed to be I got on the wrong train. So I had to back track and go up and down more stairs!! :( But I just walked through it and considered it my therepy for the day. It's funny....I start going up pretty good, then as I progress up the stairs the tightness turns into pain. That's where I worry....what if (famous and dangerous words) the implant is just the slightest tiny bit off and that's what's causing the pain. But I would hope my doctor would be able to determine that from looking at the xray's.
I'm taking calcium supplements and do alot of walking. I've even started a morning routine after my son goes to school where I go for a walk. I either go for the paper or hit the local grocery store for little incidentals.
Well time for me to say goodnight. I look forward to "talking" with you tomorrow! Have a good evening.
silver515
03-23-2005, 11:47 PM
HI...yes I am still going to Italy and Greece in July. It will be 6 months at that time so I think I will feel pretty good. If I have to stop and rest that is what I will do. I am a little worried about sitting for the long plane ride...went to the movies last week and sat for 2 hours and I was so stiff when I stood up. I was so excited at 6 wks to be able to drive...however when I went in the garage to go in my car I was thinking....well how do I get in. It was my right hip, so going in the passenger side was easy. It took a few times before I felt comfortable getting in the car.
This is great...looking forward to continuing this conversation tomorrow.
This is great...looking forward to continuing this conversation tomorrow.
MrsLinda
03-24-2005, 09:05 AM
Good Morning balleteach, silver and any who follow....
This is a great thread. I've had so many questions and concerns. It's nice to get other opinions from folks who have actually gone through the procedure. Plus I enjoy "talking with you all".
Silver - Oh I know what a job it must have been for you to get into your car. My hip was the left one. I actually got into my vehicle better from the drivers side than the passenger. I remember when DH was driving, having to go in "butt" first then trying to swing that leg up and over....Ouch!!! But I carried my trusty "leg lifter" all over the place when I knew we had to go into the car. I still get stiff from sitting too long and it's been 9 months now. I find that if I get up and just stretch that's good. At the movies, well that's a little hard. :) I just get up slowly and stand a few minutes!
balleteach - you mentioned meeting a woman who had 4 hip replacements....I'd loose my mind! My husband would loose his mind :dizzy: I eventually will have to have the other hip done. But I'm trying to wait until I'm crawling on the ground. ;) I need to really get this one back into shape stregnth wise first before I even consider that. But I know it's going to happen at some point.
Ok...time for a laugh. I'm sitting here typing away and totally forgot I have an early appointment for PT. :eek: :eek: I'll talk to you all later. Good thing it's close!!!!!!!!!!
This is a great thread. I've had so many questions and concerns. It's nice to get other opinions from folks who have actually gone through the procedure. Plus I enjoy "talking with you all".
Silver - Oh I know what a job it must have been for you to get into your car. My hip was the left one. I actually got into my vehicle better from the drivers side than the passenger. I remember when DH was driving, having to go in "butt" first then trying to swing that leg up and over....Ouch!!! But I carried my trusty "leg lifter" all over the place when I knew we had to go into the car. I still get stiff from sitting too long and it's been 9 months now. I find that if I get up and just stretch that's good. At the movies, well that's a little hard. :) I just get up slowly and stand a few minutes!
balleteach - you mentioned meeting a woman who had 4 hip replacements....I'd loose my mind! My husband would loose his mind :dizzy: I eventually will have to have the other hip done. But I'm trying to wait until I'm crawling on the ground. ;) I need to really get this one back into shape stregnth wise first before I even consider that. But I know it's going to happen at some point.
Ok...time for a laugh. I'm sitting here typing away and totally forgot I have an early appointment for PT. :eek: :eek: I'll talk to you all later. Good thing it's close!!!!!!!!!!
silver515
03-24-2005, 07:55 PM
Mrs. Linda...I was hysterical laughing when you were talking about the leg lifter..I love that thing. Luckily I dont need it now, but it was great for awhile. I had trouble moving that leg to get out of bed, so I used the leg lifter. ALso was great for getting in the car and the shower.
I also feel the stiffness when sitting for awhile. I am looking forward to going to Europe but that long plane ride will be a killer. I will have to keep standing up..
I still feel sore in my quads and sometimes my whole leg. I also feel like my opposite knee feels wierd sometimes. I think that has happened since I went back to the gym. ALthough I am not doing nearly what I am used to, I guess it is alot compared to what I have been doing lately. Hopefully that will all get better with time. From what you and Balleteach say I guess the stiffness from sitting lasts a long time.
Bye for now.....
I also feel the stiffness when sitting for awhile. I am looking forward to going to Europe but that long plane ride will be a killer. I will have to keep standing up..
I still feel sore in my quads and sometimes my whole leg. I also feel like my opposite knee feels wierd sometimes. I think that has happened since I went back to the gym. ALthough I am not doing nearly what I am used to, I guess it is alot compared to what I have been doing lately. Hopefully that will all get better with time. From what you and Balleteach say I guess the stiffness from sitting lasts a long time.
Bye for now.....
balleteach
03-24-2005, 11:15 PM
Hi, Chatting with the two of you brings back memories of my first year after surgery. It was pretty funny when I was in the hospital and years after, people would say" You look too young to be having hip-replacement!"
Ten years ago it wasn't very common for a 50yr old to be having the operation. Of course, I was flattered that everyone thought I looked alot younger.I needed all the compliments I could get. I think with the baby boomer generation all the joint replacements are going to become much more prevalent.I guess all the years of ballet finally caught up with me. Luckily, my other hip seems to be pretty normal. Another thing I remember was how much I used a reacher. What a great invention. It sure saved me endless frustration trying to reach things. I've never heard of a leg lifter!! Is it like a sling for the leg?. Silver, I'm glad you are going on your trip. The plane ride will be the most uncomfortable. I've flown a few times since my new hip and the sitting was always the hardest. The stiffness never really goes away if you have to sit for too long.That's about it for tonight. Talk to you later, balleteach
Ten years ago it wasn't very common for a 50yr old to be having the operation. Of course, I was flattered that everyone thought I looked alot younger.I needed all the compliments I could get. I think with the baby boomer generation all the joint replacements are going to become much more prevalent.I guess all the years of ballet finally caught up with me. Luckily, my other hip seems to be pretty normal. Another thing I remember was how much I used a reacher. What a great invention. It sure saved me endless frustration trying to reach things. I've never heard of a leg lifter!! Is it like a sling for the leg?. Silver, I'm glad you are going on your trip. The plane ride will be the most uncomfortable. I've flown a few times since my new hip and the sitting was always the hardest. The stiffness never really goes away if you have to sit for too long.That's about it for tonight. Talk to you later, balleteach
MrsLinda
03-25-2005, 07:22 AM
Good Morning - a leg lifter ballteach, is this device that helps with the elevation of the leg. Picture this... a long piece of flexible material with a large "loop" at the end. You slip your foot into that "loop" and lift the leg up!!! It was my lifesaver. Then I too had the reacher, a dessing stick, and this shoe horn that could also pass as a weapon! :) It's sooooo long. But that's still being used today by the entire family. It's a great shoehorn!
I'm glad you enjoy these "chats" because I do too. I'm around the same age as you were when you had your operation. Just a few years older. I'll be 55 this June. And I too hear all the time "but you're so young" to have hip problems. Then you should see the faces when I tell them that the other hip is failing also but it's not quite ready yet!
Silver - funny you mention your oposite knee feeling weird sometimes. My oposite knee has been hurting me lately. I know I have arthritis in my knees but they've been kinda "dormant" over the years. I'm hoping that the ache is just temporary. I think I'll start with the ice packs and see what happens. But for your trip...just make sure every hour or so you get up and move. Even here sitting at the computer. I need to get up every so often and move. I can get carried away and stay here much longer than I should :nono: especially when I have things to do.
Like yesterday. Once I made it to therepy :rolleyes: my therepist and I were talking about the pain I still get going up stairs and he mentioned "scare tissue" as a possibility. I never thought of that. I'll keep that in mind for the next visit to the Dr.
Well I don't want a repeat of yesterday so I shall say bye for now to the two of you. Enjoy your day.....
I'm glad you enjoy these "chats" because I do too. I'm around the same age as you were when you had your operation. Just a few years older. I'll be 55 this June. And I too hear all the time "but you're so young" to have hip problems. Then you should see the faces when I tell them that the other hip is failing also but it's not quite ready yet!
Silver - funny you mention your oposite knee feeling weird sometimes. My oposite knee has been hurting me lately. I know I have arthritis in my knees but they've been kinda "dormant" over the years. I'm hoping that the ache is just temporary. I think I'll start with the ice packs and see what happens. But for your trip...just make sure every hour or so you get up and move. Even here sitting at the computer. I need to get up every so often and move. I can get carried away and stay here much longer than I should :nono: especially when I have things to do.
Like yesterday. Once I made it to therepy :rolleyes: my therepist and I were talking about the pain I still get going up stairs and he mentioned "scare tissue" as a possibility. I never thought of that. I'll keep that in mind for the next visit to the Dr.
Well I don't want a repeat of yesterday so I shall say bye for now to the two of you. Enjoy your day.....
silver515
03-25-2005, 11:32 PM
It's funny...when I describe the leg lifter to people, I tell them that it looks like that old kids thing..the dog leash that you walk around with without the dog...I am 55 also..will be 56 in May. Everyone looks at me also and says I am too young for hip replacement....believe me maybe I looked young to them, but certainly didnt feel young..haha..
My husband and I are going into the city (NYC) this weekend...This will mean alot of walking so it will be a test for me. When we were there in Dec it was pure torture for me. I had to keep sitting and holding onto my husband...of course a cane would have made sense but I didn't want to use one. I know I won't be walking like I did before yet, but at least it should be without pain...
OK...later Balleteach and Mrs. Linda..
My husband and I are going into the city (NYC) this weekend...This will mean alot of walking so it will be a test for me. When we were there in Dec it was pure torture for me. I had to keep sitting and holding onto my husband...of course a cane would have made sense but I didn't want to use one. I know I won't be walking like I did before yet, but at least it should be without pain...
OK...later Balleteach and Mrs. Linda..
MrsLinda
03-26-2005, 07:39 AM
Morning everyone!
Silver - I try to use the example of the dog leash. But some people would look at me like I had 2 heads! They had noooo idea what I was speaking about! Please take your cane into the City!!! It gives you that "sense" of security. Also the people tend to "crowd and squeeze" you less when they see you with a cane! :) DH and I would go down to 86th street and I was afraid at first! All those people rushing around so quickly!!! It was horrible. And then the trips actually began to be fun again! :) When we head down that way now I tell DH that this is where I did my "walking therepy" :)
Well time go get going. Silver enjoy the City and Balleteach have a great day whatever you do!
Silver - I try to use the example of the dog leash. But some people would look at me like I had 2 heads! They had noooo idea what I was speaking about! Please take your cane into the City!!! It gives you that "sense" of security. Also the people tend to "crowd and squeeze" you less when they see you with a cane! :) DH and I would go down to 86th street and I was afraid at first! All those people rushing around so quickly!!! It was horrible. And then the trips actually began to be fun again! :) When we head down that way now I tell DH that this is where I did my "walking therepy" :)
Well time go get going. Silver enjoy the City and Balleteach have a great day whatever you do!
morrisrubens
03-26-2005, 10:10 AM
I was very interested in reading the various postings. I had my total hip replacement exactly 1 month ago (Feb 26 05). When I left hospital I week later I felt very shakey, didnt sleep well and was reliant on 2 crutches. Now I can walk quite well with 1 crutch, I even walk a few steps without any support at all. I try to follow the do and donts as best I can and have on occassion bent down a little to far to tie my shoe laces, but to no ill affect. I am 62 years old and hopefully will be up and running after the specified 3 months. I didn't look forward to this procedure at all, but so far my fears seem unfounded
MrsLinda
03-26-2005, 12:28 PM
Hi Morris - How are you feeling? Watch that bending! Don't you have the elastic shoe laces? They turn any lace up shoe into a "step in" shoe. The first 6-8 weeks are the most important. Patience is the key here and if you're like me, that's hard. I didn't have much! :)
I had a walker initially for a day then I was switched to canes. The walker was used only at night for trips to the bathroom. I found the canes to be very comfortable.
I have to go through it again for the other hip, just not now. I was telling either Silver or Balleteach here that I'll have to be crawling on the floor before I go and have the other hip replaced! :D
Keep us posted as to how you're doing.
I had a walker initially for a day then I was switched to canes. The walker was used only at night for trips to the bathroom. I found the canes to be very comfortable.
I have to go through it again for the other hip, just not now. I was telling either Silver or Balleteach here that I'll have to be crawling on the floor before I go and have the other hip replaced! :D
Keep us posted as to how you're doing.
balleteach
03-26-2005, 06:09 PM
Hi all, Morris, you really are still a newbie at all of this. It sounds like you are doing great. Don't get too over confident at first, give you"re body time to heal. I came back very quickly and had to make myself be patient. It feels so good to be free of the grinding hip pain and you will get better and better as time goes on. Just be careful with your movements. My neighbor slipped in the bathtub and her implant dislocated. She said the pain was excruciating. Three years ago, we were visiting relatives in Virginia and went for a few days to D.C. I was exiting an elevator pushing my rolling suitcase in front of me. The suitcase stalled on a area of the floor at the door and I literally flew over the top of my suitcase and landed hard on my back and left hip-replacement side. I knew that the hip didn't dislocate, but I got the wind knocked out of me. Believe me, I knew then and there that I probably took a couple of years off the life of my implant because the impact was so hard. For several weeks after, I was black and blue on my left side. I went to the doctor and he told me everything should be alright. But a few months later when I went in for my yearly x-ray, sure enough, there were signs of a small amount of wear and tear on the socket.Up until then the implant looked perfect. Luckily the rod into the femur was great with no problems. After that, the doctor had me come in every six months for awhile. There have been no further problems and I go once a year now.
That was a very scary episode!!! Well hipsters, I am all typed out for now.. By the way, do you remember using the raised toilet seat? I'm sooo glad that's done with!! Morris, feel free to ask us any questions..I'm going to go and enjoy my garden here in sunny northern California, balleteach
That was a very scary episode!!! Well hipsters, I am all typed out for now.. By the way, do you remember using the raised toilet seat? I'm sooo glad that's done with!! Morris, feel free to ask us any questions..I'm going to go and enjoy my garden here in sunny northern California, balleteach
MrsLinda
03-26-2005, 11:54 PM
Evening Everyone! Oh yes that raised toilet seat. I couldn't wait to get rid of that!! That was the most uncomfortable thing! Then...from having to use it for so long, once I got on the regular seat I thought I was sitting on the floor! With regards to the bath tub accident balleteach's neighbor had...I love a hot bath. I would usually take a nice leisurely bath a few times a week. Well after the surgery, it was showers. Would you believe me if I told you that I only recently got back into my bathtub? I was so nervous about getting in and getting out that I wouldn't even try it. Finally, after 8 months of showers only I bit the bullet and just did it! Of course I made sure my husband was home just incase I couldn't get out. But it was heavenly. :)
Well I'm a little tired. I just got home from church and it was a very long mass tonight. But I noticed my kneeling is getting much better.
Have a good night everyone and Happy Easter to all who celebrate the holiday.
Well I'm a little tired. I just got home from church and it was a very long mass tonight. But I noticed my kneeling is getting much better.
Have a good night everyone and Happy Easter to all who celebrate the holiday.
morrisrubens
03-27-2005, 09:13 AM
Hi all. This is Morris again.Firstly let me thank everyone who posted their kind advice and encouragement. You have alerted me to the problem of being too confident. As I said it has only been 1 month since the op and I seem to have got the basic functions back ok. But I now realise that perhaps I might be taking too many chances. I bend my right knee(new hip side) to quickly slip on the sock, push my shoe on then raise knee, bend leg in and quickly tie lace. Keeping my right leg rigid, I bend on my left side and pick up something off the floor etc etc. So far I have not had any problems, but I think you have enlightened me a lot as to the risks. On a different note, my hip problem was diagnosed over 2 years ago, but all I suffered was a dull in my back and groin. It was only during the last 6 months that I found that I couldnt walk too far without getting exhausted, but I never suffered any real pain. My surgeon told me later that both ball and socket were completley worn out. For your interest I am living in the UK and I can tell you all that whatever you may read about our health care , its not that bad the main problem is the waiting time
before you get to have the op ( my wait time 7 months)
Regards to all Morris
before you get to have the op ( my wait time 7 months)
Regards to all Morris
silver515
03-28-2005, 09:26 PM
HI Guys! Well I had my weekend in the city and it was great. I did alot of walking, probably overdid it. By the evening my legs were really tired, not in pain, but just tired. THe next day I didn't start out as peppy as the day before. I was happy to know that I could do this walking, and although it wasn't as much as I was used to, I know it will only get better.
I, too ,know that I take some liberties now that I am feeling better. Tomorrow makes 12 weeks, so I know I still have to be careful BY the way, I still use my shower chair, and this weekend in the hotel, I took a shower standing up for the first time in a long time. I guess I will give up the chair soon.
Balleteach and Mrs. Linda...how long did you keep the raised toilet seat in your house? When I go out, of course, I use a regular toilet and hope there is something to pull up on...I still have it in my house....feel more comfortable...do you think it's almost time to give it up?
This is great...so nice to know I can ask questions from people who have been there done that. ALso good for you MOrris since I can help you since I am a little ahead of you....
Hope to hear from all of you soon.
I, too ,know that I take some liberties now that I am feeling better. Tomorrow makes 12 weeks, so I know I still have to be careful BY the way, I still use my shower chair, and this weekend in the hotel, I took a shower standing up for the first time in a long time. I guess I will give up the chair soon.
Balleteach and Mrs. Linda...how long did you keep the raised toilet seat in your house? When I go out, of course, I use a regular toilet and hope there is something to pull up on...I still have it in my house....feel more comfortable...do you think it's almost time to give it up?
This is great...so nice to know I can ask questions from people who have been there done that. ALso good for you MOrris since I can help you since I am a little ahead of you....
Hope to hear from all of you soon.
MrsLinda
03-28-2005, 10:22 PM
Hi Silver! Glad you had a good time in the City. Where did you go? Do any shopping? :)
I think I gave up the raised toilet seat just around 12 weeks. I'm fortunate because my toilet is next to the sink and our paper holder is ceramic and is recessed into the wall. So I was able to push up on the frame of the holder and grab the sink. But I'll never forget the first time I sat on my toilet without the raised seat. I thought I was sitting on the floor! :eek: I think you can use the regular seat. But only if you feel comfortable doing it.
With regards to the shower chair...I think I used my chair 2 times and then I was standing in the shower. I just didn't really need it.
Morris - you're quite lucky you didn't have the "normal" pain associated with OA of the hip. If I wasn't careful about how I turned or rolled over in bed, it felt as if someone was stabbing me in the groin with a hot sharp knife. Oh it hurt. Then sometimes I'd get out of bed and the hip joint would lock. There was that stabbing pain again. It was the worse; I'd cry sometimes it was so painful. Or.... :) I'd get up out of bed to use the facilities and it would lock and I couldn't get back into bed unless I just let myself fall on my back on the bed. Oh that was fun. :nono: Where in the UK do you live?
Well everyone, time to say good night. Glad everyone is doing so well!!! Talk to you soon.
I think I gave up the raised toilet seat just around 12 weeks. I'm fortunate because my toilet is next to the sink and our paper holder is ceramic and is recessed into the wall. So I was able to push up on the frame of the holder and grab the sink. But I'll never forget the first time I sat on my toilet without the raised seat. I thought I was sitting on the floor! :eek: I think you can use the regular seat. But only if you feel comfortable doing it.
With regards to the shower chair...I think I used my chair 2 times and then I was standing in the shower. I just didn't really need it.
Morris - you're quite lucky you didn't have the "normal" pain associated with OA of the hip. If I wasn't careful about how I turned or rolled over in bed, it felt as if someone was stabbing me in the groin with a hot sharp knife. Oh it hurt. Then sometimes I'd get out of bed and the hip joint would lock. There was that stabbing pain again. It was the worse; I'd cry sometimes it was so painful. Or.... :) I'd get up out of bed to use the facilities and it would lock and I couldn't get back into bed unless I just let myself fall on my back on the bed. Oh that was fun. :nono: Where in the UK do you live?
Well everyone, time to say good night. Glad everyone is doing so well!!! Talk to you soon.
morrisrubens
03-29-2005, 11:51 AM
Hi Mrs Linda After a rather hazardous start with the raised toilet seat, I soon got used to using it but dont exactly like it.
In answer to your question, I come from North London, A place called Barnet exactly 5 minutes from the open country side. regards Morris.
In answer to your question, I come from North London, A place called Barnet exactly 5 minutes from the open country side. regards Morris.
balleteach
03-29-2005, 10:58 PM
Hi hipsters, I hope you are all doing well. As far as the raised toilet seat, mine now resides up in the rafters in our garage. We will probably hang on to it, just in case. I really don't remember how long I used it. I still have my walker and crutches too. Silver, doesn't it feel great to walk that much with only normal tiredness and not the grinding, excruciating pain? I do pretty much what I want physically, always keeping in mind the hip. Last year we spent alot of time in Yosemite and walked and hiked the whole time. My husband even climbed Half-Dome, at over 8836 feet, which was quite an accompisment for him. I didn't push it that much, but still did less strenuous hikes. I'm going to keep on keeping on as long as I can!! Did any of your Drs. give you an idea of how long your hip might last? My Dr. said it just depends on the person. The more active you are the faster it will wear, but we also need to live our life and stay in good shape. I expect since I had mine done when I was 50yrs.old ten years ago, I will probably be due again in this lifetime!! That's about it for tonight, balleteach
hip2it
03-30-2005, 03:49 PM
This is a wonderful thread! I am so encouraged by the progess all of you have made. I am a 46 year old female and just had my left hip replaced 4 months ago. I am so thrilled to have my flexibility back :) I am quite active doing TaeKwonDo, Pilates, kickbox aerobics and resistance bands. I did a little too much at first and have had to cut the workouts down to two a week (and focus on resistance bands rather than the quicker motions).
Can some of you let me know how long it was before you were back at full speed? I'm so impatient! I thought that muscle would respond to workouts by healing faster but it seems that I still need to take it slow. Will I get there or will this be restricted all the time?
My doctor agrees that it depends on the person as to how long it will last. He has another patient that has had their hip for 30 years so far (and still going). And, that was with technology from 30 years ago... we have much better replacements today. Even still, he predicts that I will need to replace the cup and ball once again... I'm trying to keep my weight steady and do everything just right so that I can keep it as long as possible.
Keep writing!!! (I'm anxious to see how your 6-month trip goes... and Balleteach, how long until you got back to your ballet?) :bouncing:
Can some of you let me know how long it was before you were back at full speed? I'm so impatient! I thought that muscle would respond to workouts by healing faster but it seems that I still need to take it slow. Will I get there or will this be restricted all the time?
My doctor agrees that it depends on the person as to how long it will last. He has another patient that has had their hip for 30 years so far (and still going). And, that was with technology from 30 years ago... we have much better replacements today. Even still, he predicts that I will need to replace the cup and ball once again... I'm trying to keep my weight steady and do everything just right so that I can keep it as long as possible.
Keep writing!!! (I'm anxious to see how your 6-month trip goes... and Balleteach, how long until you got back to your ballet?) :bouncing:
silver515
03-30-2005, 08:44 PM
Hi there...nice to see this thread is expanding....Today makes l2 wks since my surgery and sometimes I feel like recovery is so slow. I am back at my gym, but I am there about half the time that I am used to. It's very frustrating because I want to do so much more, but don't feel physically ready. I am walking alot more...without pain which is worth everything, but I can't wait to get back to "full speed" as hip2it says. ALso, does anyone have "bad" days on "bad" weather days. ON Monday it rained all day and I felt like I was 90 years old with my aches and pains..(I am 55)
hip2it
03-31-2005, 10:18 AM
At first I noticed that when it was bitter cold that it got worse. Then the next bitter cold day it was OK. I think that some days are just worse than others (no particular trend with the weather). I think the deep muscles near the new joint just get tired and then they get sore and it aches. Although, I think I don't have arthritis in any other joint (so far, at least... it's just a matter of time I think). Before the operation I was quite sore on rainy days. What do the rest of you think?
balleteach
04-01-2005, 05:10 PM
Hi hipsters. Sorry I've been absent on the board the last day or two. Over the Easter weekend, I was holding my 10 month old grandaughter, who has a cold. Well, she sneezed and coughed in my face a few times, and surprise, surprise, I ended up with a mild cold!! Now I'm feeling much better and back to normal. I hope this thread grows because I enjoy reading about everyone's experiences. I really feel like the "oldtimer" around here. I went back to teaching ballet 11 weeks after surgery. I didn't do much demonstrating until several weeks after, but I was able to be up and about and use my upper body along with showing with my legs what I wanted them to do. No jumping and I had to modify how I used my body. Luckily, my students at the time were advanced and knew what to do with me correcting them. Believe me, you really do improve after the first year, getting better and better. Being patient as far as physical things go has always been near impossible for me. This is because, as a dancer and teacher, I could always do whatever I wanted, when I wanted to. This was the first time I was incapacitated and I gained a new-found respect for people who are handicapped or physically disabled. I was always so relieved to know mine was fixable and temporary. It's so difficult to depend on other people for help. My husband was great, but you still want to do for yourself. Keep posting everyone, balleteach
hip2it
04-01-2005, 06:36 PM
Balleteach - you don't know how glad I am that you said that! I went back to TaeKwonDo teaching at abou 7 weeks. Luckily for me my 12 year old is in the classes I teach and can demonstrate better than I ever could. I can now show techniques that I could not do previous to the operation. :bouncing:
Even still, I have had to slow down and not do some things. For example, I can't kick the heavy bags or break boards or do any great jumping. But it's a small price to pay. And perhaps after a year I will be able to do some of that again (what do you think?).
I have two questions. 1) what is the deal with flexibility? I can bend closer than 90 degrees with no pain and it even feels good as long as I do it slow and controlled. Some of the Pilates moves have flexibility added and it feels great. But still I don't want to overdo it and 2) why is it so hard to take the first step after sitting where it's easier with every step after?
Sorry for asking so much but there are so many questions left unanswered and people are so different in their recoveries. Previous to finding the healthboards I could only talk to people who were just interested in getting from the bed to the bathroom and that's about it... I have so many more needs since I'm so much younger (46)...
Thanks for being so helpful! :jester:
Even still, I have had to slow down and not do some things. For example, I can't kick the heavy bags or break boards or do any great jumping. But it's a small price to pay. And perhaps after a year I will be able to do some of that again (what do you think?).
I have two questions. 1) what is the deal with flexibility? I can bend closer than 90 degrees with no pain and it even feels good as long as I do it slow and controlled. Some of the Pilates moves have flexibility added and it feels great. But still I don't want to overdo it and 2) why is it so hard to take the first step after sitting where it's easier with every step after?
Sorry for asking so much but there are so many questions left unanswered and people are so different in their recoveries. Previous to finding the healthboards I could only talk to people who were just interested in getting from the bed to the bathroom and that's about it... I have so many more needs since I'm so much younger (46)...
Thanks for being so helpful! :jester:
balleteach
04-01-2005, 09:16 PM
Hi Hip2it, I thought I was young to have hip-replacement, but you have four years on me. I have really had to work on flexibility for the past ten years. I have my own set of stretches that I do regularly, gentle upper body and legs. I used to do alot of yoga, but, of course, many of the poses are not appropriate now. What will happen with time is you will adjust your activites and discover what works for you to accomodate your new hip. Before the replacement, I had become so limited in my activites because of the awful, grinding hip pain that got so bad I was limping. After the replacement and recuperation the pain was gone, but I had to compromise certain exercises just out of common sense and safety concerns for my new hip. Now, I walk at a good pace, bike ride, hike, swim. I really couldn't recommend much high impact activity. You will be able to jump better as you get stronger, as long as you have cushioned ( plie) bending landings. As for kicking a bag or breaking a board, I wouldn't know what to tell you. For along time after my new hip when I wanted to lean over and pick-up something off the floor, I would stretch the new hip leg out behind me supporting myself with my other leg, sort of like a front lunge.That way I avoided the 90 degree bending from the waist, taking all the pressure off the hip. I never bring my knee up beyond 90 degrees, even now. Through the years, you develop habits and adapt your own individual "style." As far as stiffness goes, I'm still stiff if I sit too long. It's like your muscles freeze up a bit and as soon as you move eveything starts to work again. I can never sit for too long without getting up and moving around. Sometimes I also still have acheness in the thigh and groin area, but I guess that's natural, after all the hip is artificial!! Believe me, as time goes on and you feel better, it's easy to forget. Ask any questions you like, I wish that I could have talked with someone who had gone through this when I had my surgery... Talk to you later....balleteach
hip2it
04-01-2005, 10:47 PM
Balleteach, do you limp now? Can anyone tell you have a hip replacement (except if they see you bend down or something). Also, Silver515 and MrsLinda - are you still limping? MrsLinda, you mentioned the problem with stairs. Sometimes I just go up the stair and it's OK. Other times I have to use my good leg and can't do it without support. I feel I'm getting stronger but stairs and sometimes just getting up from my chair at work I have to limp for a few steps (or even more). Then, another time I walk without a limp. It seems if I workout I am much better after the workout but then a day later it gets worse and a day after that it's OK again. It seems so irratic (not sure of that spelling there).
What are your experiences? :p
What are your experiences? :p
balleteach
04-01-2005, 11:28 PM
Hi, I never limped after the surgery and my legs were perfectly even in length. I know some people end up with uneven leg length and that can cause problems. I was fitted with the second smallest sized implant and the fit was perfect. Everything for me looks totally normal. In fact, people are shocked when I tell them I've had hip replacement because I'm in good shape and very active. Actually, I had a very successful surgery, recuperation, and so far a great result. When they scheduled me for the surgery, I didn't want to go all the way under. My Dr. is wonderful and whatever they gave me was easier on the system and I came out of it wide awake and feeling super. While I was under, I remember them talking about what they all did on the 4th of July, since my surgery was on the 5th!!!
The most painful part of the hospital stay was when the Dr. removed the drainage tube. Ouch!! The pain was only a few seconds, but came unexpectedly. I feel like I'm strolling down memory lane. Talking to all of you brings back the early days... balleteach
The most painful part of the hospital stay was when the Dr. removed the drainage tube. Ouch!! The pain was only a few seconds, but came unexpectedly. I feel like I'm strolling down memory lane. Talking to all of you brings back the early days... balleteach
MrsLinda
04-02-2005, 08:40 AM
Morning Everyone! Welcome hip2it! We were in Pennsylvania a few days and we don't have our computer set up yet. Nice to see this thread is still thriving!
hip2it - with regards to limping. I don't limp. I did have a limp in the beginning, but not now. Stairs are still a challange for me. However I have to admit this weekend at our house in Pa. I almost forgot I had a new hip. I was stepping over things and while I still have that "pull" it somehow didn't hurt as much. We don't have many stairs there but the few we do have weren't that bad. But today with this rain in New York City I feel sooo stiff. But that could also be contributed to all the work we did in the house these past few days. I still have days when I will sit too long and then get up and kinda have to get going slowly. But then I'm fine.
balleteach - hi...I missed you! :D Hope your cold is better by now. My most painful memory is of the nurses "turning" me. I thought I would die and actually cried out loud. I'll never forget that for as long as I live! When the drain came out it was just an uncomfortable feeling but it didn't really hurt.
Well I need to get moving here. Nice talking with everyone..have a great day and I'll see you all later.
hip2it - with regards to limping. I don't limp. I did have a limp in the beginning, but not now. Stairs are still a challange for me. However I have to admit this weekend at our house in Pa. I almost forgot I had a new hip. I was stepping over things and while I still have that "pull" it somehow didn't hurt as much. We don't have many stairs there but the few we do have weren't that bad. But today with this rain in New York City I feel sooo stiff. But that could also be contributed to all the work we did in the house these past few days. I still have days when I will sit too long and then get up and kinda have to get going slowly. But then I'm fine.
balleteach - hi...I missed you! :D Hope your cold is better by now. My most painful memory is of the nurses "turning" me. I thought I would die and actually cried out loud. I'll never forget that for as long as I live! When the drain came out it was just an uncomfortable feeling but it didn't really hurt.
Well I need to get moving here. Nice talking with everyone..have a great day and I'll see you all later.
silver515
04-03-2005, 12:35 AM
HI my hip friends.....glad to hear this limp discussion. I was limping alot before my surgery...strangers came up to me and asked why I was limping. People said you could see the pain all over my face. After surgery I am not limping...for awhile I felt like I was bouncing. I felt like my surgery leg was alot longer...I called my dr and told him that I felt like it was 2 inches longer and it felt really wierd. He checked my x-rays and told me that first of all , if it were 2 inches I would not even be able to walk, let alone without the cane. He said there was maybe l/4 inch difference in each leg, which really is nothing. After he told me that, I concentrated more on my walking and did much better.
I also feel very stiff after sitting awhile and then getting up. I was hoping that would go away, but Balleteach, I guess it never does. I also remember being turned in the hospital and in rehab and how painful that was.
I am a very active person, and now feel that I am getting on with my life. I have gone back to the gym, and although I am not doing my whole workout, it gets better each time. WHen I had my surgery in Jan, my big goal was to be ready for Yankee's opening day. Everyone was hysterical when I said that, being the crazy fanatical Yankee fan that I am. Well, that day is tomorrow (unless of course it's rained out)...so excited. It will be a big test walking with the crowds from the parking lot and sitting in that cramped seat for about 3 hours....should be interesting. I did get Yankees seat cushions to raise the seat a little and make it more comfortable. GO YANKEES!...sorry for going off on my Yankee tirade..haha...I was originally worried about the bathroom but now can handle normal toilets, so it will be ok....
I also feel very stiff after sitting awhile and then getting up. I was hoping that would go away, but Balleteach, I guess it never does. I also remember being turned in the hospital and in rehab and how painful that was.
I am a very active person, and now feel that I am getting on with my life. I have gone back to the gym, and although I am not doing my whole workout, it gets better each time. WHen I had my surgery in Jan, my big goal was to be ready for Yankee's opening day. Everyone was hysterical when I said that, being the crazy fanatical Yankee fan that I am. Well, that day is tomorrow (unless of course it's rained out)...so excited. It will be a big test walking with the crowds from the parking lot and sitting in that cramped seat for about 3 hours....should be interesting. I did get Yankees seat cushions to raise the seat a little and make it more comfortable. GO YANKEES!...sorry for going off on my Yankee tirade..haha...I was originally worried about the bathroom but now can handle normal toilets, so it will be ok....
MrsLinda
04-03-2005, 09:27 AM
Good morning everyone!
silver - so you're a Yankee fan...Great. So am I. Are you coming to the opening game tonight? I hope it doesn't get rained out.
Speaking of toilet seats...this weekend we went to Pennsylvania. We have a house in the Pocono's and it's time to get it ready for the summer. Anyway, we stopped for lunch in a Friendly's and I had to use the restroom. Well, talk about a low toilet. I just stood there looking at it like an idiot and finally sat down. I had some job getting up cause there wasn't anything at all to kinda grab on to. I was afraid if I pulled too hard on that metal thing that holds the paper I'd pull it off the wall. But I did it laughing all the time at the idea of getting stuck and yelling for help!! :D :D
What type of exercises do you do at the Gym? I really want to increase my activities. I was never an "exercise" person but as I get older the weight is harder and harder to loose and I have gained some since the surgery. I get some exercise in at PT. I'm still going twice a week for the issue I have with the stairs so I'm not totally inactive. And I walk....everywhere I can. I'll only use the truck if I have to to to Westcherster or out of the area.
Well I need to run. Loosing an hour has totally messed up my Sunday schedule. I hope all of you have a great day and I look forward to our conversations!!! Bye..
silver - so you're a Yankee fan...Great. So am I. Are you coming to the opening game tonight? I hope it doesn't get rained out.
Speaking of toilet seats...this weekend we went to Pennsylvania. We have a house in the Pocono's and it's time to get it ready for the summer. Anyway, we stopped for lunch in a Friendly's and I had to use the restroom. Well, talk about a low toilet. I just stood there looking at it like an idiot and finally sat down. I had some job getting up cause there wasn't anything at all to kinda grab on to. I was afraid if I pulled too hard on that metal thing that holds the paper I'd pull it off the wall. But I did it laughing all the time at the idea of getting stuck and yelling for help!! :D :D
What type of exercises do you do at the Gym? I really want to increase my activities. I was never an "exercise" person but as I get older the weight is harder and harder to loose and I have gained some since the surgery. I get some exercise in at PT. I'm still going twice a week for the issue I have with the stairs so I'm not totally inactive. And I walk....everywhere I can. I'll only use the truck if I have to to to Westcherster or out of the area.
Well I need to run. Loosing an hour has totally messed up my Sunday schedule. I hope all of you have a great day and I look forward to our conversations!!! Bye..
silver515
04-03-2005, 02:43 PM
HI Mrs Linda...I am trying to go to the gym 3 times a week, of course it doesn't always work out. I do the elliptical, bike, and treadmill. I used to do elliptical for 30 min and either bike or treadmill for 30 min...now doing it less time...hope to get back to my normal times eventually. I do some upper body machines...I always did light weights so there is no change there. I am doing much lighter weights on the lower body machines...I don't know what they are called, but probably the machines that you do at pt. I also do the hip abductor and adductor machines...at much lighter weights than I did before. I obviously can't do the floor exercises (sit ups, leg lifts, etc) that I did before , but I am doing sit ups on the exercise ball. Sometimes I do the leg lifts, etc at home on my bed.
I was laughing when you were talking about the bathroom and the low toilet. I know exactly how you felt. WHen I went shopping and had to use the bathroom, even in the handicapped bathroom, the toilet was low, but there were the rails to hang on to. I kept thinking what if I had to call someone...
I also gained some weight after the surgery, but it wasn't the weight as much as the shifting of the weight that upset me. From not doing all my workouts, of course it all shifted to the hips, butt, area and my pants are tight. I am working on this....doing weight watchers and exercising...
Yes I am going to opening night....will be freezing, but can't wait. We have the SUn package...go to all Sun home games, opening day, and old timers day...Just love them..
I was laughing when you were talking about the bathroom and the low toilet. I know exactly how you felt. WHen I went shopping and had to use the bathroom, even in the handicapped bathroom, the toilet was low, but there were the rails to hang on to. I kept thinking what if I had to call someone...
I also gained some weight after the surgery, but it wasn't the weight as much as the shifting of the weight that upset me. From not doing all my workouts, of course it all shifted to the hips, butt, area and my pants are tight. I am working on this....doing weight watchers and exercising...
Yes I am going to opening night....will be freezing, but can't wait. We have the SUn package...go to all Sun home games, opening day, and old timers day...Just love them..
hip2it
04-03-2005, 03:43 PM
Hello all!
It's great to trade stories. I had my hip replaced the Monday after Thanksgiving and I went into work for a christmas party before I was really ready to get out (but I couldn't miss seeing everyone). The toilet seat in the handicapped stall was taller but I felt like I was going to fall in. I also went to a friend's house for a visit during the early days (she was getting over foot surgery). We were quite a pair. A good thing she was a good friend because I brought my toilet seat over! (She loved it as well and was sad to see it go at the end of the day).
I guess that limping is normal. I don't do it all the time, just sometimes I can't stand straight on that side and I have to shift my weight for a few steps first. I, too was sure that the new hip made my left leg longer. My doctor said it is normal and it really isn't. As the weeks go by it feels better and better.
I have been doing resistance bands and kickbox aerobics. But, all the jumping made it way too sore. Now, I have cut back to just weights (or bands) two days a week (light on the legs) and the ski machine (very slowly) a couple times. It is driving me crazy. I had lost 35 pounds before the surgery and I have gained 10 back. I'm still trying but weight is a never ending battle and I just can't push it too much yet!!!
I found that I was not walking straight. I think that because of the bone spurs, I haven't walked straight in a few years. It's really hard to walk without favoring the hip. Now my focus is on doing everything slow and carefully and not putting all my weight on my good leg. I think that there are muscles there that haven't worked in a long time because of the arthritis. It feels so great to be able to move again.
I'm able to get on the floor and do situps and exercises there. I think I am quite flexible for being so soon after the operation.
I had quite a time at the hospital. The epidural they had in me after the operation made my good leg go numb. They cut the dose in half two times because I couldn't do PT because I couldn't use my good leg. Finally they took the darn thing out and just gave me pain pills. It was much better. The other problem was that they did something to my nerves in my 'bad' leg and the heel of my foot was totally numb. It stayed that way for 6 weeks. I'm glad to say that finally went away (I was really scared about that one).
Did any of you get that squeezy thing on your ankles for the first couple of days (to keep circulation in your legs). It kept me up all night. Squeeze, relax, squeeze, relax... then there was that horrible white hose to wear!!!
This is a really cool thread... thanks to all of you for sharing your experiences. I really appreciate it!!! :wave:
It's great to trade stories. I had my hip replaced the Monday after Thanksgiving and I went into work for a christmas party before I was really ready to get out (but I couldn't miss seeing everyone). The toilet seat in the handicapped stall was taller but I felt like I was going to fall in. I also went to a friend's house for a visit during the early days (she was getting over foot surgery). We were quite a pair. A good thing she was a good friend because I brought my toilet seat over! (She loved it as well and was sad to see it go at the end of the day).
I guess that limping is normal. I don't do it all the time, just sometimes I can't stand straight on that side and I have to shift my weight for a few steps first. I, too was sure that the new hip made my left leg longer. My doctor said it is normal and it really isn't. As the weeks go by it feels better and better.
I have been doing resistance bands and kickbox aerobics. But, all the jumping made it way too sore. Now, I have cut back to just weights (or bands) two days a week (light on the legs) and the ski machine (very slowly) a couple times. It is driving me crazy. I had lost 35 pounds before the surgery and I have gained 10 back. I'm still trying but weight is a never ending battle and I just can't push it too much yet!!!
I found that I was not walking straight. I think that because of the bone spurs, I haven't walked straight in a few years. It's really hard to walk without favoring the hip. Now my focus is on doing everything slow and carefully and not putting all my weight on my good leg. I think that there are muscles there that haven't worked in a long time because of the arthritis. It feels so great to be able to move again.
I'm able to get on the floor and do situps and exercises there. I think I am quite flexible for being so soon after the operation.
I had quite a time at the hospital. The epidural they had in me after the operation made my good leg go numb. They cut the dose in half two times because I couldn't do PT because I couldn't use my good leg. Finally they took the darn thing out and just gave me pain pills. It was much better. The other problem was that they did something to my nerves in my 'bad' leg and the heel of my foot was totally numb. It stayed that way for 6 weeks. I'm glad to say that finally went away (I was really scared about that one).
Did any of you get that squeezy thing on your ankles for the first couple of days (to keep circulation in your legs). It kept me up all night. Squeeze, relax, squeeze, relax... then there was that horrible white hose to wear!!!
This is a really cool thread... thanks to all of you for sharing your experiences. I really appreciate it!!! :wave:
balleteach
04-03-2005, 11:36 PM
Good evening hipsters, It is rainy here in "sunny" California. Our weather is wonderful and very mild compared to most areas of the country, but we are darn sick of the wetness. We have had record rainfall in northern Ca. this year and an amazing snowpack in the Sierras. I know it's good for water this summer, but bring on the sun!! I do enjoy our little chats and maybe more people will post now that we've been "moved."I really don't remember having to wear hose, except maybe right after surgery. Also, that scary feeling at first that you will never be able to move again, much less get up and walk. They got me up pretty quickly and I was so light-headed that I immediately eased into a wheelchair. That only lasted a few seconds then I was fine. When I started to move around, things moved along quickly and I was stepping up and down a couple of stairs at the hospital before I left for home. I stayed for three nights. They said I could go home after two if I wanted to or I could have stayed longer if needed. Believe me, I was more concerned about contracting some serious infection from being in the hospital then being at home to recuperate. My Dr. was excellent and the nurses very attentive and caring. It was just being in the hospital, out of my normal enviroment with all the stories of hospital infections, that I just wanted to go home. I'm a very independent person and with my husband there to help, everything worked out fine. They also sent out a visiting nurse three days a week for the first few weeks for physical therapy. I did my exercises regularly and progressed nicely. You just get so much better as time goes by. It's slow going and patience is a must. Did any of you have to give your own blood for surgery? Also, did you take blood-thinners for awhile to avoid clots from inactivity? That's about it for now. Talk to you all later, balleteach
MrsLinda
04-04-2005, 12:52 PM
Morning everyone! I had those automatic socks on for compression. They really weren't that bad. But I had problems getting up right away. Apparently one of the meds I was taking was causing my pressure to drop suddenly. The first day they came to try and get me up I fainted dead away. Didn't remember a thing except lots of pain and being dizzy. Unfortunately, they had to rule out post-op problems (clots, cardiac, etc) so up to the ICU I went. I was in the hospital 5 days and it took almost the entire time to finally figure out it was a med. So I didn't even make it out of bed for any type of PT until the day I was transferred to the Rehab Facility. Once I got to Burke then it was PT 2x's a day and OT 2x's a day. I was in the rehab facility for 10 days and then when I came home I had a PT come to the house for just a few weeks then I went to PT as an outpaitent. I was on the blood thinner for 6 weeks after the surgery. Then once the major restrictions were lifted he took me off of it. As for donating blood, I asked if I should and the surgeon said that he really didn't think it was necessary but I could if I wanted too. I declined having all this faith in him!!
I think I'm doing a little better. I get so frustrated at times that I think I'm my own worse enemy. The surgery will be 8 months now and I still have problems with stairs and "stepping over" objects. However....either I'm getting use to it or there is a slight improvement because while cleaning the house I stepped over something my son left on the floor and it wasn't that bad. It still pulls but it didn't hurt as much. So we'll see.
Well everyone I need to run. Laundry is waiting to be folded and then it's off to the dentist for a checkup.
Silver - how did you like the game? Did you freeze??? I was thinking of you.
Balleteach - sorry you're getting that horrid rain. I know the feeling. Northern New Jersey is having floods and our basement in Pennsylvania looked like a swimming pool this past weekend. :eek: So I'm waiting for the sun too.
Talk to you all later...
I think I'm doing a little better. I get so frustrated at times that I think I'm my own worse enemy. The surgery will be 8 months now and I still have problems with stairs and "stepping over" objects. However....either I'm getting use to it or there is a slight improvement because while cleaning the house I stepped over something my son left on the floor and it wasn't that bad. It still pulls but it didn't hurt as much. So we'll see.
Well everyone I need to run. Laundry is waiting to be folded and then it's off to the dentist for a checkup.
Silver - how did you like the game? Did you freeze??? I was thinking of you.
Balleteach - sorry you're getting that horrid rain. I know the feeling. Northern New Jersey is having floods and our basement in Pennsylvania looked like a swimming pool this past weekend. :eek: So I'm waiting for the sun too.
Talk to you all later...
silver515
04-04-2005, 08:11 PM
HI Everyone! I hated those white stockings...I had to wear them for 6 wks, but I never had those automatic socks. The game last night was great...It was so much fun. Of course we had to park in a different parking lot cause our reg one was full....it was a big open lot that was muddy and disgusting from the rain. I was a little nervous walking ....it was bumpy and you couldn't see where the holes were since it was covered with mud. ANyway, the Yankees won, we saw all our friends from last year who sit near us, and it didn't get cold til later in the game. We really enjoyed it. The seats are not that comfortable to begin with and with heavy jackets on it was cramped. At least there are lots of times to stand up so I didn't get too stiff. Can't wait to go again this Sunday.
silver515
04-04-2005, 08:45 PM
Hey hip friends...where was this board moved to? Can't figure it out, getting to it the long way....i will keep checking..thanks.
hip2it
04-04-2005, 10:24 PM
I wasn't on blood thinners, just an aspirin a day. I convinced them that I didn't need the stockings because it made the numbness in my heel worse. I was in the hospital for 5 days as well.
Did everyone have the 'minimally invasive' surgery where they do two small incisions and put the new hip in 'blind' (they have to look thru scopes since you are not laid open), or the full incision. Mine was the 'full' one. The incision is only a little over 5 inches (not too bad). I think the recovery is longer with this one (it's supposed to be). I wonder if this pain is from muscles healing or from bone growing into prosthesis. My doctor calls it 'soft tissue' pain. He says it is merely 'shock' of my body getting used to metal inside me. That really doesn't make sense to me...
Also, I had to have two screws put into the socket side because the hip joint was not 'laying' correctly. I also wonder if the body has to get used to the screws too. Did any of you have this done? Sometimes I feel like my leg is twisted, but that doesn't happen all the time. Anyone have this?
I'm in Pittsburgh and the weather was beautiful and 60 degrees for our opener today. Then again, on Sunday I woke up to 2 inches of snow covering every branch of every tree (it was everywhere). It's gorgeous when it covers everything like that but I would rather have the sun now (it is spring already)!!!
By the way, when I posted a while ago I picked a smile face that looked good and put it at the end. After I hit the enter key I noticed that it was sticking it's tongue out... sorry if I offended anyone... I guess I should be more careful. I assume no one caught it since you are all being nice and replying to me all the same.
Take care all! :cool:
Did everyone have the 'minimally invasive' surgery where they do two small incisions and put the new hip in 'blind' (they have to look thru scopes since you are not laid open), or the full incision. Mine was the 'full' one. The incision is only a little over 5 inches (not too bad). I think the recovery is longer with this one (it's supposed to be). I wonder if this pain is from muscles healing or from bone growing into prosthesis. My doctor calls it 'soft tissue' pain. He says it is merely 'shock' of my body getting used to metal inside me. That really doesn't make sense to me...
Also, I had to have two screws put into the socket side because the hip joint was not 'laying' correctly. I also wonder if the body has to get used to the screws too. Did any of you have this done? Sometimes I feel like my leg is twisted, but that doesn't happen all the time. Anyone have this?
I'm in Pittsburgh and the weather was beautiful and 60 degrees for our opener today. Then again, on Sunday I woke up to 2 inches of snow covering every branch of every tree (it was everywhere). It's gorgeous when it covers everything like that but I would rather have the sun now (it is spring already)!!!
By the way, when I posted a while ago I picked a smile face that looked good and put it at the end. After I hit the enter key I noticed that it was sticking it's tongue out... sorry if I offended anyone... I guess I should be more careful. I assume no one caught it since you are all being nice and replying to me all the same.
Take care all! :cool:
silver515
04-04-2005, 10:30 PM
I had lovanax as a blood thinner when I was at rehab..its a shot in the stomach, not fun. I switched to Ecotrin when I got home....2 tablets twice a day. My incision is also a little over 5 inches long. Its not a pretty sight, although it's healing nicely. I am using vitamin E cream..anyone know anything better? Sometimes it really does feel weird around the incision...I just assume it's muscles or bone growth. I am going to the dr next week and I will ask his opinion.
CrazyMary2
04-04-2005, 10:42 PM
Hellos Fellow Hippy's! For the last year I have been posting on the Pain Management Board. And they are great people to say the least - not a whole lot of them had THR surgery, but they really helped me through a lot of questions as far as medications, etc. I don't know what I would have done without them. Then out of the blue today I find THIS BOARD dealing with just hip surgery and all the questions I had reguarding just this issue. I AM SO EXCITED! After reading all the posts I am really tired and happy and grateful you guys are going through what I'm going through. I was misdiagnosed (ended up in a wheelchair) with what I thought was a spinal fusion. When a really good doctor discoved I didn't need a spinal fusion after all but both my hips needed to be totally replaced ASAP!!!!! Cute huh? My first one was Dec. 9th, 2004, and the next one is scheduled for sometime in the next 3 weeks. I'll go into more detail later cuz I am really tired now. But once again - I"M SO GLAD I FOUND YA'LL!!!! Love, Crazy Mary :cool:
MrsLinda
04-05-2005, 08:15 AM
Morning all - I sure do wish I had a small scar. I'll have to measure mine but it's definately not small. My incision still has a "numbness" to it but that will eventually go away. I remember when I had a "C" section for my son the incision stayed "weird" for awhile.
I was on Cumadin. The dosage was determined by how much of something :confused: was in my blood. I had blood drawn every two days. That was a real pain when I came home but I had a technician come to the house twice a week to draw the blood. The results went to my primary Dr. and he would call weekly and tell me how much to take.
Gotta run......B Back Later!
I was on Cumadin. The dosage was determined by how much of something :confused: was in my blood. I had blood drawn every two days. That was a real pain when I came home but I had a technician come to the house twice a week to draw the blood. The results went to my primary Dr. and he would call weekly and tell me how much to take.
Gotta run......B Back Later!
MrsLinda
04-05-2005, 08:27 AM
Back again! Don't laugh....I measured my scar. It's 7". There's something on the market that's just for scars and I'm going to check it out today at CVS.
And....yesterday I had an appointment with the dentist for a checkup and cleaning. What was the first thing he said to me when I walked in???? "Did you take your antibiotic"??? I totally forgot that for the first year or so we have to take antiboitics as a precaution before any dental work. He gave me some, then a prescription because I was a naughty girl and haven't been in 2 years! Needless to say I have 3 cavities and one may need a crown.
Welcome Mary! Glad you found us. This is a great thread because you have people here who are in all stages of THR!
Well the sun is out here in NYC and I'm taking total advantage of it today!! Have a great day "hippys" and I'll talk to you all later!
And....yesterday I had an appointment with the dentist for a checkup and cleaning. What was the first thing he said to me when I walked in???? "Did you take your antibiotic"??? I totally forgot that for the first year or so we have to take antiboitics as a precaution before any dental work. He gave me some, then a prescription because I was a naughty girl and haven't been in 2 years! Needless to say I have 3 cavities and one may need a crown.
Welcome Mary! Glad you found us. This is a great thread because you have people here who are in all stages of THR!
Well the sun is out here in NYC and I'm taking total advantage of it today!! Have a great day "hippys" and I'll talk to you all later!
hip2it
04-05-2005, 07:01 PM
I got that stuff from CVS for scars (called Scar Therapy) and put it on religiously for the first 3 months. I don't know what it would have looked like but the scar isn't that bad. Just a purple line now with faint staple markings. I got tired of taking it and wasn't sure if it was really working so I stopped. Let me know what you think of it... (I believe it says it will take several weeks to tell if it's doing anything).
Welcome Crazy Mary! Best of luck on your next one... as you know from the first there are all sorts of questions left unanswered that we are all asking of each other. I know someone at the karate studio who has had two replacements. The most recent one was last December and the one prior was a year before that. She had deformities in her hip sockets from birth and is 50 years old. She got osteo in her hips so bad that she just had to get them done... she is doing great with the resistance band exercises. We hobble along in classes together (in fact, that's where I'm going tonight after I finish this post).
My incision is mainly just numb and sometimes it itches. I wouldn't say it ever really hurts but the numbness is pretty 'weird' :eek: !
Well, gotta go!
Welcome Crazy Mary! Best of luck on your next one... as you know from the first there are all sorts of questions left unanswered that we are all asking of each other. I know someone at the karate studio who has had two replacements. The most recent one was last December and the one prior was a year before that. She had deformities in her hip sockets from birth and is 50 years old. She got osteo in her hips so bad that she just had to get them done... she is doing great with the resistance band exercises. We hobble along in classes together (in fact, that's where I'm going tonight after I finish this post).
My incision is mainly just numb and sometimes it itches. I wouldn't say it ever really hurts but the numbness is pretty 'weird' :eek: !
Well, gotta go!
silver515
04-05-2005, 08:23 PM
Hey hippy friends...love that name! That makes me feel better that your incisions were numb for awhile....at least I know that it's normal. I used vitamin e cream at first, then bought some other cream called scar zone...(more expensive)...don't know if its better or not, but my scar is not that bad...ugly but could be worse.
By the way...where is this board now? The arthritis thread said it was moved, and I keep going in that way, but have to start from the beginning. Can't believe how many postings there are in this thread.
By the way...where is this board now? The arthritis thread said it was moved, and I keep going in that way, but have to start from the beginning. Can't believe how many postings there are in this thread.
MrsLinda
04-06-2005, 09:03 AM
I wonder if that scar cream would work now that it's been 8 months since the surgery? I guess I won't know unless I try! :) I still have numbness in certain areas. I didn't have much itching. But I would have "pinching" that would really catch me! The PA said it might have been the internal stitches "popping". Whatever it was it's gone.
You know, I'm beginning to think that the problems I'm having with stairs and stepping over things is not going to go away. This may be the range of motion I'm left with and that's it! I'm still going to therepy, I take stairs on purpose to move those joints. It's been 8 months now and I just don't know. Oh well....I guess time will tell.
Well my hippy friends :) I have a busy morning/early afternoon so I'm going to say bye for now. Oh Silver - the board is now located under Hip and Knee Replacement. I saw "us" the other day.
Talk to you all later! :wave:
You know, I'm beginning to think that the problems I'm having with stairs and stepping over things is not going to go away. This may be the range of motion I'm left with and that's it! I'm still going to therepy, I take stairs on purpose to move those joints. It's been 8 months now and I just don't know. Oh well....I guess time will tell.
Well my hippy friends :) I have a busy morning/early afternoon so I'm going to say bye for now. Oh Silver - the board is now located under Hip and Knee Replacement. I saw "us" the other day.
Talk to you all later! :wave:
balleteach
04-06-2005, 12:30 PM
Good Morning Hipsters, Well, I am treating myself to a small cup of coffee this morning. I have really cut down drastically on caffeine for the last few months because, the older I get, it seems to make me too hyper. The allergies in the Sacramento area are notoriously bad this time of year for most people, so my sinuses are plugged up and I definitly needed a lift this a.m. I think we are second only to Paris with the most trees per capita. It's beautiful and we love it, but have to be prepared to sniffle and sneeze for awhile. With all the rain, this year is worse than ever!! My scar is also the long one. Have faith, because with time it really does fade to a thin line. I just looked at mine and it is hardly visible. It gradually fades. The scar from my caesarean 32yrs ago is more noticable. Yikes, I am sounding quite like the senior citizen!! When you are a few more years down the road, I think you will all be amazed at how much better and normal you will feel. As I have said before, my hip feels like it is a part of me. There still is stiffness and some discomfort here and there, but really no more than everything else that goes on with our bodies. I just remembered one of the things that concerned me the most while scheduling my surgery was making sure it was at the right time of the month. Preferably, right after "that special time we women all look forward to." Luckily, it all worked out and there was one less thing to worry about. Keep posting, balleteach
silver515
04-06-2005, 08:37 PM
OK I hate to sound dumb but why can't I find it under Hip and Knee Replacement.....help! I have to remember to take my antibiotics before I go to the dentist in 2 weeks...I could very easily forget. Does anyone else take Cosamin DS...I have been taking MSM, chondroitin, glucosamine for a long time but this is the kind my dr recommended, so that is what I take.
hip2it
04-06-2005, 10:09 PM
OK Silver, it's under Healthboards, then Health Issues, then Hip/Knee Replacement. There are only two threads in the list. I'm going to try to put a favorite there so I can get to it easier too... it's a real pain.
I don't know about Cosamin DS... is it for osteo arthritis? I'm familiar with the glucosamine and others you mentioned... I stopped taking all that stuff after the surgery. I guess I'm lucky that I don't have any other arthritis lurking out there (at least not yet, it's just a matter to time though since my family has it all over the place even though they typically didn't get it as young as I am).
Mrs. Linda - I'm beginning to feel like you about the 'stair' pain. Here is what I noticed myself. At first it was bad all the time and I understood that. Then, I started doing major improvements. I went back to almost full speed with all my crazy activities. At first it was great and I thought I was going to be done with all this. Then, it got worse (really sore and I started limping where I didn't do that before). The doctor told me to go slower, cut back and take smaller steps. (He also validated that there was nothing wrong at all with the placement or length of my legs). So, for the past three weeks I have been doing just walking and one resistance class a week. I now walk extremely slow and careful :yawn: . I worked hard to NOT limp with any steps. To make my steps very short and even. I felt like Tim Conway on the old Carol Burnette show (his 'old man' walk) ;) . I managed very slowly to get rid of the limp and to get rid of the soreness. Some days it feels like nothing is there (but just as long as I stay slow and steady).
I think that I was not walking properly (that's my theory anyway). I had a lot of bone spurs that limited my walking before. I had them for several years and I'm sure that my gait was effected by them. With the new hip I was walking the same old way but without the support of the bone spurs. I had to re-learn how to walk evenly. Now I am walking better but on the resistance bands my strength is worse! I think I have to start over with the muscle therapy and strengthen new muscles.
Now it's not so painful and I can do stairs better but when I speed up the pace or lift my leg higher than a few inches it is sore and feels awkward. I hope this goes away and I learn to walk right. I am wondering if I will always have to go slower with smaller steps? I wonder if I will always have pain when I go quicker or higher. I wonder if the 'screws' he put in are causing the pain (although the doc doesn't think so). It's so hard to know. I go back to my Dr. for a checkup next Tuesday and will see if he has any thoughts.
Describe to me your stair 'pain' and when you 'step over' something. Is it like an unsteady 'gasp' or does it feel like you are not strong enough to put all your weight on your leg? If you stand on the bad leg only and then switch to your good leg, does the bad leg hurt when you let the pressure off the leg? Sometimes it hurts me more when I lift my weight off of it than when I put weight on it...
Anyway, hippees... send me your pain and rehab theories! :)
I don't know about Cosamin DS... is it for osteo arthritis? I'm familiar with the glucosamine and others you mentioned... I stopped taking all that stuff after the surgery. I guess I'm lucky that I don't have any other arthritis lurking out there (at least not yet, it's just a matter to time though since my family has it all over the place even though they typically didn't get it as young as I am).
Mrs. Linda - I'm beginning to feel like you about the 'stair' pain. Here is what I noticed myself. At first it was bad all the time and I understood that. Then, I started doing major improvements. I went back to almost full speed with all my crazy activities. At first it was great and I thought I was going to be done with all this. Then, it got worse (really sore and I started limping where I didn't do that before). The doctor told me to go slower, cut back and take smaller steps. (He also validated that there was nothing wrong at all with the placement or length of my legs). So, for the past three weeks I have been doing just walking and one resistance class a week. I now walk extremely slow and careful :yawn: . I worked hard to NOT limp with any steps. To make my steps very short and even. I felt like Tim Conway on the old Carol Burnette show (his 'old man' walk) ;) . I managed very slowly to get rid of the limp and to get rid of the soreness. Some days it feels like nothing is there (but just as long as I stay slow and steady).
I think that I was not walking properly (that's my theory anyway). I had a lot of bone spurs that limited my walking before. I had them for several years and I'm sure that my gait was effected by them. With the new hip I was walking the same old way but without the support of the bone spurs. I had to re-learn how to walk evenly. Now I am walking better but on the resistance bands my strength is worse! I think I have to start over with the muscle therapy and strengthen new muscles.
Now it's not so painful and I can do stairs better but when I speed up the pace or lift my leg higher than a few inches it is sore and feels awkward. I hope this goes away and I learn to walk right. I am wondering if I will always have to go slower with smaller steps? I wonder if I will always have pain when I go quicker or higher. I wonder if the 'screws' he put in are causing the pain (although the doc doesn't think so). It's so hard to know. I go back to my Dr. for a checkup next Tuesday and will see if he has any thoughts.
Describe to me your stair 'pain' and when you 'step over' something. Is it like an unsteady 'gasp' or does it feel like you are not strong enough to put all your weight on your leg? If you stand on the bad leg only and then switch to your good leg, does the bad leg hurt when you let the pressure off the leg? Sometimes it hurts me more when I lift my weight off of it than when I put weight on it...
Anyway, hippees... send me your pain and rehab theories! :)
MrsLinda
04-07-2005, 11:09 AM
Morning Hippies! :)
Silver - Presently I don't take anything but I'm beginning to think I should. My other hip isn't all that great and I'd like to keep that one as long as possible. Any reason he suggested that particular one?
hip2it - ok....lets see if I can describe the feeling. Its almost as if the muscle is being stretched soooo much that if you try to lift the leg up any higher the muscle/tendon whatever....will snap! It's a pulling sensation and if you don't stop it turns into a sharp burning feeling in the upper thigh/groin area. I did alot of stairs yesterday since I was in Manhattan. I start out great...not my normal gait, but not bad. But by the time I get to say the second level I can feel that "pulling" begin and then if I continue to push myself the pulling turns into burning pain. HOWEVER.....today. I just returned from pt. I noticed on the way there that I have no pain what so ever when I walk. Occasionally I'll get a little twinge in the front of the thigh. But the aches I had along the side of the hip are gone. And....when I came up the stairs from the garage this morning I almost had NO PULLING!! Now in pt they have me doing stairs and stairs sideways. Sideways is very uncomfortable; almost painful. The pull is much stronger when I walk up the stairs sideways. I was stepping over things too and while I still feel that "pulling" I really do think it's better. I sure hope so. But I also understand that everyday can be different. Oh my Dr. also took several xrays to make sure the implant was in right and it's perfect according to the him. And straight leg lifts are difficult if lying flat on my back. Same feeling in the same area.
Well I have to run. I have a dentist appointment. Yuck! Talk to you all later!!
Silver - Presently I don't take anything but I'm beginning to think I should. My other hip isn't all that great and I'd like to keep that one as long as possible. Any reason he suggested that particular one?
hip2it - ok....lets see if I can describe the feeling. Its almost as if the muscle is being stretched soooo much that if you try to lift the leg up any higher the muscle/tendon whatever....will snap! It's a pulling sensation and if you don't stop it turns into a sharp burning feeling in the upper thigh/groin area. I did alot of stairs yesterday since I was in Manhattan. I start out great...not my normal gait, but not bad. But by the time I get to say the second level I can feel that "pulling" begin and then if I continue to push myself the pulling turns into burning pain. HOWEVER.....today. I just returned from pt. I noticed on the way there that I have no pain what so ever when I walk. Occasionally I'll get a little twinge in the front of the thigh. But the aches I had along the side of the hip are gone. And....when I came up the stairs from the garage this morning I almost had NO PULLING!! Now in pt they have me doing stairs and stairs sideways. Sideways is very uncomfortable; almost painful. The pull is much stronger when I walk up the stairs sideways. I was stepping over things too and while I still feel that "pulling" I really do think it's better. I sure hope so. But I also understand that everyday can be different. Oh my Dr. also took several xrays to make sure the implant was in right and it's perfect according to the him. And straight leg lifts are difficult if lying flat on my back. Same feeling in the same area.
Well I have to run. I have a dentist appointment. Yuck! Talk to you all later!!
MrsLinda
04-08-2005, 08:33 AM
Morning Hippies! Well there goes my Bextra; again!! :( This was the only medication that really took care of my stiffness and pain. I guess I'll have to call today and get a replacement drug. My friend takes Mobic and swears by it. She also said it goes to work "quicker" than most do. What do you guys take if anything for stiffness or aches? See I still have osteo in my other hip, hands and knees. While the knees are no where near the replcement stage, the Bextra really made me feel 20 again. Well, maybe 40. :D I'll be 55 in June. :cool:
On a positive side I saw a news program the other night and they showed this new proceedure for hip paitents. We NOW have a proceedure similiar to the proceedure done for knee paitents when the knee needs "cleaning up", ie. torn miniscus (spelling), ligament, etc. It by no means replaces a THR, but adds a little life to your natrual joint. Not all Dr.s are performing this yet, but I'm sure it'll be up to speed soon. It immediately caught my eye since my other hip is starting to bother me more than usual.
Well hippies...have a great day. We have rain this morning and then the sun is suppose to come out. I sure hope so I have new glasses I need to take back for readjustment. They're those progressive lenses and I can't see the computer with them. I have to sit on a pillow and tilt my chin and nose way up in the air! Bye all!!
On a positive side I saw a news program the other night and they showed this new proceedure for hip paitents. We NOW have a proceedure similiar to the proceedure done for knee paitents when the knee needs "cleaning up", ie. torn miniscus (spelling), ligament, etc. It by no means replaces a THR, but adds a little life to your natrual joint. Not all Dr.s are performing this yet, but I'm sure it'll be up to speed soon. It immediately caught my eye since my other hip is starting to bother me more than usual.
Well hippies...have a great day. We have rain this morning and then the sun is suppose to come out. I sure hope so I have new glasses I need to take back for readjustment. They're those progressive lenses and I can't see the computer with them. I have to sit on a pillow and tilt my chin and nose way up in the air! Bye all!!
silver515
04-08-2005, 09:16 PM
HI hippie friends.....I took Bextra for about 5 wks last summer and it didn't work for me. When I had taken Celebrex earlier, it always worked, but in more recent times there was nothing that helped me. Now after surgery I sometimes take Aleve. I guess it helps a little.
I am going to the dr on Wed., I have to think of questions for him...always remember what I want to say when I get home. I even make a list and still forget..haha...Well, Mrs. Linda we are the same age...I am also 55...but will be 56 in May...(boohoo)
I am happy...feel like I am getting a real workout at the gym. Of course, not doing nearly what I did before, but I am getting there...and with no pain. Before the surgery I would go to the gym...there were 2 big flights of steps to get to room with elliptical, etc...I would stand there and want to cry...I froze my membership starting a month before the surgery...just couldn't do the steps without extreme pain.
OK...hope you hear from all you hippies soon.
I am going to the dr on Wed., I have to think of questions for him...always remember what I want to say when I get home. I even make a list and still forget..haha...Well, Mrs. Linda we are the same age...I am also 55...but will be 56 in May...(boohoo)
I am happy...feel like I am getting a real workout at the gym. Of course, not doing nearly what I did before, but I am getting there...and with no pain. Before the surgery I would go to the gym...there were 2 big flights of steps to get to room with elliptical, etc...I would stand there and want to cry...I froze my membership starting a month before the surgery...just couldn't do the steps without extreme pain.
OK...hope you hear from all you hippies soon.
hip2it
04-09-2005, 12:41 PM
MrsLinda, your pain is quite different from mine. I never get pain anywhere near the groin. Mine is more of an achy feeling at the top of my thigh in the back and outside. Occasionally my leg feels like it is a dead weight that I can barely lift to step. It is much harder to control the closer together my legs are. It is a little more painful to stand with my legs touching together than if I have a wider stance. Anyway, since I have been slowing down it is getting better... What kind of 'workouts' do you do? What does your PT do? I only had PT for the first 2 weeks out of the hospital. I was doing so well that they released me from it.
Silver, I know what you mean about forgetting to say to the doctor all you want. I have to write it all down beforehand and I always feel self conscious about reading this long long list when I'm in there. Luckily the doctor is very patient and never hurries me along!
I am ordering compost (5 yards) for the garden next week... I hope I can do all the work to get it into the garden. Today I am also going to go for a slow bike ride (for the first time since surgery). I think the muscles will be fine but I'm not sure about the sit bones... :confused: Has anyone tried gardening? I think the bending over will be hard. I'll let you all know what happens.
Well hippies, it outside to enjoy the much appreciated sunshine!!! :bouncing:
Silver, I know what you mean about forgetting to say to the doctor all you want. I have to write it all down beforehand and I always feel self conscious about reading this long long list when I'm in there. Luckily the doctor is very patient and never hurries me along!
I am ordering compost (5 yards) for the garden next week... I hope I can do all the work to get it into the garden. Today I am also going to go for a slow bike ride (for the first time since surgery). I think the muscles will be fine but I'm not sure about the sit bones... :confused: Has anyone tried gardening? I think the bending over will be hard. I'll let you all know what happens.
Well hippies, it outside to enjoy the much appreciated sunshine!!! :bouncing:
silver515
04-10-2005, 08:02 PM
HI! Hope all you hippies had a great weekend! Hip2it how did your gardening go? I dont do much gardening so I don't really plan on doing it now. It is not something I enjoy...I would imagine you would have to be really careful with all the bending. Today was an absolutely beautiful day...we went to the Yankee game (they lost boo hoo) and the seats and steps are getting better for me. I was really worried about all these things , but everything is ok. My main concern was the toilets, but I can handle real ones now. Actually got rid of the raised toilet this weekend...really could have done that sooner , but held on to it for awhile.
MrsLinda
04-11-2005, 10:48 AM
Morning "hippies". What a beautiful weekend we had. I wish the weather could stay like that all summer.
hip2it - in PT I do the treadmill, then strengthening exercises on a machine that I can never remember the name of. :rolleyes: Then they do some isometic exercises and finally stairs. But not normal stair climbing. Since I'm having problems, I go up them sideways. And let me tell you, it's not as easy as it sounds. The primary focus has been on strengthening those flexor muscles at the top of my thigh. I use to have aches on the side and on top of the thigh. But I'm happy to say that these past two weeks have been total pain free in that new hip!!! Yipee!!!! The pain I described to you isn't a constant thing. Only when I push myself and do too many stairs at once. And....I noticed that when I "stretch out" on the couch, and swing that "good hip" up a little and over, it's 99% pain free!!!! Finally!!!! I'm getting back to normal!!!!! And now that means back to work...Yuck!!
Silver - what's happening to our Yankees????????? Glad you're enjoying the games.
Laundry is done...gotta run. TTYAL!!
hip2it - in PT I do the treadmill, then strengthening exercises on a machine that I can never remember the name of. :rolleyes: Then they do some isometic exercises and finally stairs. But not normal stair climbing. Since I'm having problems, I go up them sideways. And let me tell you, it's not as easy as it sounds. The primary focus has been on strengthening those flexor muscles at the top of my thigh. I use to have aches on the side and on top of the thigh. But I'm happy to say that these past two weeks have been total pain free in that new hip!!! Yipee!!!! The pain I described to you isn't a constant thing. Only when I push myself and do too many stairs at once. And....I noticed that when I "stretch out" on the couch, and swing that "good hip" up a little and over, it's 99% pain free!!!! Finally!!!! I'm getting back to normal!!!!! And now that means back to work...Yuck!!
Silver - what's happening to our Yankees????????? Glad you're enjoying the games.
Laundry is done...gotta run. TTYAL!!
balleteach
04-11-2005, 05:59 PM
Greetings to all of you "hippie hipsters" out there. I have been off line for a few days because of internet snafus in our area. I've been spending the time trying to keep my computer-addicted husband from climbing up the walls!! All is well now so I'm back. It sounds like all of you are doing great and improving each day. I've been limping today, but not because of my hip. I have a recurring ganglian cyst on the top-side of my foot that is acting up. Of course, it's on the same side as my hip-replacement. I should be fine by tommorow. Thank goodness it only hurts occasionally. I walked briskley for almost an hour yesterday so maybe it was a bit much, even though I do walk alot.I hope we get some more posters to this thread. I have been checking the arthiritis board to steer people with hip/knee replacement questions here. I know there are more like us out in cyberspace. It's great to share info and experiences. That's about it for now.. Talk to you later, balleteach
hip2it
04-11-2005, 08:19 PM
Gardening went great! I also did an hour and half on a bike outdoors (what a fantastic weekend)! :eek:
The best news of all is that my hip feels better now (not worse as I was expecting). However, I the hip joint is 'clicking' now... not pain at all, just a clicking feeling (it's not loud enough for anyone else to hear). Even still, I really think that exercise makes it feel better (not worse). Stretching makes it feel better too. I see my doctor tomorrow and will ask him all my questions too.
MrsLinda - that's great news about your progress. I think we all just need to tell each other to hang in there... it WILL get better!!! :wave: ... and it would help if we really listen to that advice as well. I'm horrible at that patience thing...
Silver - I know what you mean about giving up that high seat... it's so much more comfortable to use the higher one (but you must admit it's a bit harder to clean... or do you get someone else to do that chore?)... anyway, I bet it feels good to be able to go anywhere now.
Balleteach - do you still do ballet? Are you still teaching or do you do the dance part too? How about yoga or pilates? (did I ask that already?) My Dr. tells me that one of his hip replacement patients regularly gets into the lotus position (but he definately does NOT recommend it). I can do the child's pose (yoga) and it feels quite good. I never could do the lotus position even before and I don't feel like it's safe to now. What about the splits? I really am curious about the limits of the prosthesis.
Well hipsters - that's all for the evening. Have a great day and don't forget the sunscreen. :cool:
The best news of all is that my hip feels better now (not worse as I was expecting). However, I the hip joint is 'clicking' now... not pain at all, just a clicking feeling (it's not loud enough for anyone else to hear). Even still, I really think that exercise makes it feel better (not worse). Stretching makes it feel better too. I see my doctor tomorrow and will ask him all my questions too.
MrsLinda - that's great news about your progress. I think we all just need to tell each other to hang in there... it WILL get better!!! :wave: ... and it would help if we really listen to that advice as well. I'm horrible at that patience thing...
Silver - I know what you mean about giving up that high seat... it's so much more comfortable to use the higher one (but you must admit it's a bit harder to clean... or do you get someone else to do that chore?)... anyway, I bet it feels good to be able to go anywhere now.
Balleteach - do you still do ballet? Are you still teaching or do you do the dance part too? How about yoga or pilates? (did I ask that already?) My Dr. tells me that one of his hip replacement patients regularly gets into the lotus position (but he definately does NOT recommend it). I can do the child's pose (yoga) and it feels quite good. I never could do the lotus position even before and I don't feel like it's safe to now. What about the splits? I really am curious about the limits of the prosthesis.
Well hipsters - that's all for the evening. Have a great day and don't forget the sunscreen. :cool:
silver515
04-11-2005, 09:17 PM
HI! Hip2it glad you enjoyed your gardening...Exercise definitely does make the hip feel better. I went to the gym today and I am getting more into my normal routine. I did about an hour cardio....15 on elliptical, 20 on bike, and 25 on treadmill. I am using the machines but still at a lower weight, but that is ok. I do miss doing situps etc on the floor...I am using the exercise ball for that.
MrsLinda.."our" Yankees were not good today, but they will bounce back against those Red Sox on Wed and Thurs...My husband was hysterical laughing when I said that we were talking about this on the hip board..he couldn't believe it ..funny.
MrsLinda.."our" Yankees were not good today, but they will bounce back against those Red Sox on Wed and Thurs...My husband was hysterical laughing when I said that we were talking about this on the hip board..he couldn't believe it ..funny.
MrsLinda
04-12-2005, 02:57 PM
Hi Hippies!! Another georgeous day here in New York City!
Silver - question. You're using a stationery bike? I asked if I could use the one in PT and they said "not yet". Hummm...wonder what they're waiting for?? What speed do you use the treadmill on? I take advantage of the equipment at PT to get my exercise on and they don't mind at all.
hip2it - you can hear your hip clicking? Does it hurt? What did the Dr. say was causing that??
Balleteach - how's that foot of yours? Better now I hope.
Glad to see everyone's doing really well. Talk to you all later...
Silver - question. You're using a stationery bike? I asked if I could use the one in PT and they said "not yet". Hummm...wonder what they're waiting for?? What speed do you use the treadmill on? I take advantage of the equipment at PT to get my exercise on and they don't mind at all.
hip2it - you can hear your hip clicking? Does it hurt? What did the Dr. say was causing that??
Balleteach - how's that foot of yours? Better now I hope.
Glad to see everyone's doing really well. Talk to you all later...
hip2it
04-12-2005, 07:22 PM
Howdy hipsters!
Mrs. Linda - I can feel it click more than hear it. He said that it was mechanical in nature and if it doesn't hurt (it doesn't) it may just be that's the way it is (or it could go away). Anyway he wasn't worried unless it starts hurting.
Dr. said everything was going great. He says that the hardest part of all this is that your brain still thinks that your hip is the old hip (sort of like phantom pain, only phantom femur...). You walk the old way for a time. It can hurt walking the old way with the new hip. It just takes it time to re-learn how to walk and balance and do things. If you go too fast, it stretches everything causing inflamation (and hence the pain). So, going slow and re-learning the easy way to walk is the way to go.
I did a bike outside on the weekend with no problems (actually it was easier than I thought it would be)...
Keep writing!!! (Hope your foot is better Balleteach)
Mrs. Linda - I can feel it click more than hear it. He said that it was mechanical in nature and if it doesn't hurt (it doesn't) it may just be that's the way it is (or it could go away). Anyway he wasn't worried unless it starts hurting.
Dr. said everything was going great. He says that the hardest part of all this is that your brain still thinks that your hip is the old hip (sort of like phantom pain, only phantom femur...). You walk the old way for a time. It can hurt walking the old way with the new hip. It just takes it time to re-learn how to walk and balance and do things. If you go too fast, it stretches everything causing inflamation (and hence the pain). So, going slow and re-learning the easy way to walk is the way to go.
I did a bike outside on the weekend with no problems (actually it was easier than I thought it would be)...
Keep writing!!! (Hope your foot is better Balleteach)
MrsLinda
04-13-2005, 08:19 AM
Morning hippies!
hip2it - great news that everything is going so well!! I began getting very frustrated during my recovery. Everyone else was bopping around with all these smiles on their faces after their surgery around 5 months. Me on the other hand, at 5 months still had "aches" where I felt I shouldn't have them, and was still having difficulties with some very basic functions!! So of course, I pushed myself and I think I made matters worse. It has actually taken me now, 8 months to get to the point where I can really and truely say I feel 98% better. I walk better, get up from sitting on the floor better. Bend better, stretch, sit in the tub.....etc. Stairs.... :rolleyes: well, maybe that will be my "limited" activity. I am going up better, but I still have to take it easy and I can't do say, 3 flights at once anymore. At least when it's time to do the other hip :( :( I'll know better!
So listen to your doctor....take it one day at a time. I do think however I'm going to ask about the bike at PT. I'd really like to start getting some of this weight off :rolleyes: that I put on. Have a great day and I really look forward to these conversations everyone!!
hip2it - great news that everything is going so well!! I began getting very frustrated during my recovery. Everyone else was bopping around with all these smiles on their faces after their surgery around 5 months. Me on the other hand, at 5 months still had "aches" where I felt I shouldn't have them, and was still having difficulties with some very basic functions!! So of course, I pushed myself and I think I made matters worse. It has actually taken me now, 8 months to get to the point where I can really and truely say I feel 98% better. I walk better, get up from sitting on the floor better. Bend better, stretch, sit in the tub.....etc. Stairs.... :rolleyes: well, maybe that will be my "limited" activity. I am going up better, but I still have to take it easy and I can't do say, 3 flights at once anymore. At least when it's time to do the other hip :( :( I'll know better!
So listen to your doctor....take it one day at a time. I do think however I'm going to ask about the bike at PT. I'd really like to start getting some of this weight off :rolleyes: that I put on. Have a great day and I really look forward to these conversations everyone!!
balleteach
04-13-2005, 11:11 AM
Good morning hipsters. It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood and I'm feeling quite chipper today. My foot is back to normal and the allergies have let up for awhile, so I'm looking forward to a great day!! I'm going to spend time with my two "grandgirlies" which is always alot of fun. Luckily, I can keep up with them. One is 4yrs and the other 10 months. Sooooo much fun!! I don't teach ballet anymore. I stopped a few years after my hip surgery. Not because of it, but for other reasons. I started subbing for our school district and have been doing that for the last 5yrs. It's great because I can pick when and how much I want to work. I only work at one school, so I know the teachers and the kids. At the point in my life when I had my hip done I wasn't taking classes anymore. I was in great shape and could pretty much demonstrate what I needed to for teaching. Of course I was in a lot of hip pain, but had a high pain tolerance so I just kept going. I think being in such good shape made it possible for a quick recovery. I would like to do some weight training for upper body strength, but don't seem to get around to it. Walking, bike riding and my own set of stretches are my regular routine. I'm sure if I was younger, I would probably be pushing myself more, but this seems to work for me now. All of you sound like you are improving and your bodies are adjusting to the new hip. I've said it before... it should get better and better as time goes by. What do you all do and what are your interests in life? Talk to you later and have a great day... balleteach
silver515
04-18-2005, 09:43 PM
hi hippie friends. I went to the dr for my 3 month checkup last week. All went well. I did ask about my right leg feeling a little longer...he said less than l/4 inch but I could get lift if I wanted or could wait. I decided I might as well wait since it is getting into sandal weather anyway. Hopefully it will even up as he says it will. I asked him about crossing my legs at ankle...I thought I could never cross legs again, but he said I can. They tell you that at beginning because of blood clots...that was exciting to me.
Went to Baltimore this weekend to see my Yankees...of course they have been playing terrible.(ahead now 15-3 yippee) Walked lots of miles and had a great time. Really happy when I do things like that...I always remember the pain from before surgery.
Went to the dentist today and had to take 4 amoxicillin an hour earlier....they were shocked to hear about my hip replacement.....
Went to Baltimore this weekend to see my Yankees...of course they have been playing terrible.(ahead now 15-3 yippee) Walked lots of miles and had a great time. Really happy when I do things like that...I always remember the pain from before surgery.
Went to the dentist today and had to take 4 amoxicillin an hour earlier....they were shocked to hear about my hip replacement.....
hip2it
04-18-2005, 10:02 PM
Hello fellow hip ladies!
I did tons of gardening this weekend (just couldn't help myself). To my surprise I was just a little sore but not that bad! I thought for sure I was overdoing it even though I was extremely careful. The human body is so incredibly resiliant :)
That's cool news about the leg crossing at the ankles Silver. I too thought that we could never do that again. I am always catching myself doing that and having to work on it! But, unlike you, I was afraid to ask (I thought he would say don't do it and I really didn't want to hear it). I'm glad you did ask. Thanks.
I can really sympathize with you MrsLinda... I don't like stairs at all. Just when I think I'm OK and I start to climb them eagerly it just doesn't work that well. I have tried doing them very slowly with the bad hip and careful to keep my leg close to the center of my body. It works better for me. I found that if I work at that simple leg positioning when I walk or do something like stairs that it doesn't hurt. It's really hard because I tend to forget and get side tracked by the rest of my life - isn't that a great thing... I mean the getting side tracked and not thinking about the crazy blasted hip all the time. Before the surgery all I thought about was surgery and pain and decisions, decisions, decisions. I obsessed about what the limits would be and what it would feel like and if I was too young and everything!!! Then, after the surgery I continued the obsession with recouperation and how to walk differently and such. Now, I am finally entering the stage where I am resigned that this was not such a bad thing. It was the right decision (the only one I could have done given the circumstances) and it will give me so much more freedom that I don't care if there are a few rules about bending.
I can't begin to tell you how much fun the gardening was! I have been working on a 40' diameter bog garden in my yard. It is a perfect circle that is split into a circle in the middle with 6 gardens and 6 paths coming out from the center. The area is so boggy that it actually has a stream running through it (down the channels between path and garden). This weekend I planted all sorts of japanese and siberian irises (they love water and the deer don't eat them). I put up an armillary in the center on some stones. I can't wait until it starts to bloom!
Well - back to looking at more iris catalogs! Stay healthy all, and enjoy your lives! :)
I did tons of gardening this weekend (just couldn't help myself). To my surprise I was just a little sore but not that bad! I thought for sure I was overdoing it even though I was extremely careful. The human body is so incredibly resiliant :)
That's cool news about the leg crossing at the ankles Silver. I too thought that we could never do that again. I am always catching myself doing that and having to work on it! But, unlike you, I was afraid to ask (I thought he would say don't do it and I really didn't want to hear it). I'm glad you did ask. Thanks.
I can really sympathize with you MrsLinda... I don't like stairs at all. Just when I think I'm OK and I start to climb them eagerly it just doesn't work that well. I have tried doing them very slowly with the bad hip and careful to keep my leg close to the center of my body. It works better for me. I found that if I work at that simple leg positioning when I walk or do something like stairs that it doesn't hurt. It's really hard because I tend to forget and get side tracked by the rest of my life - isn't that a great thing... I mean the getting side tracked and not thinking about the crazy blasted hip all the time. Before the surgery all I thought about was surgery and pain and decisions, decisions, decisions. I obsessed about what the limits would be and what it would feel like and if I was too young and everything!!! Then, after the surgery I continued the obsession with recouperation and how to walk differently and such. Now, I am finally entering the stage where I am resigned that this was not such a bad thing. It was the right decision (the only one I could have done given the circumstances) and it will give me so much more freedom that I don't care if there are a few rules about bending.
I can't begin to tell you how much fun the gardening was! I have been working on a 40' diameter bog garden in my yard. It is a perfect circle that is split into a circle in the middle with 6 gardens and 6 paths coming out from the center. The area is so boggy that it actually has a stream running through it (down the channels between path and garden). This weekend I planted all sorts of japanese and siberian irises (they love water and the deer don't eat them). I put up an armillary in the center on some stones. I can't wait until it starts to bloom!
Well - back to looking at more iris catalogs! Stay healthy all, and enjoy your lives! :)
balleteach
04-19-2005, 07:29 PM
Greetings hippie hipsters. It's great to hear from you again. Looks like our board is starting to grow and it's interesting to hear from new people. Hopefully we can be of help and offer encouragement since we've all been there at different times. You all sound like you are doing so well and improving more each day. It's wonderful when you can resume many of your former activities, even if modified a bit. Let's all keep posting.. balleteach
MrsLinda
04-20-2005, 08:15 AM
Good morning hippies!! I've been job hunting and became a little preoccupied with the task. I'm ready to go back to work and I do not want to return to my current job. Long story and too depressing to go into now. ;) So I've been off the board for a few days.
silver - boy you really are a Yankees fan to go to Baltimore!! I hope they get going soon!! :rolleyes: Great news about your checkup. While I don't sit with my legs crossed (just never could do it) I do cross my ankles. I'd wait a little on that lift. I too thought that one was longer than the other but it worked itself out. The drugs before the dentist don't make me very happy. I too am going for dental work and have to pop the pills an hour prior go getting there. I had the dentist laughing....I said next I'll need Monostat!! :D
hip2it - I love gardening. Unfortunately we live in an appartment here in NY but I tried the garden thing in Pa. The deer and the rest of the little critters in the area had a buffet!!! Unfortunately not being there full time ment they had open invitations to my plants. I've come to the conclusion that stairs will be my limitation. I still can not do a straight leg lift if both legs are down. If I raise my right leg to a bending position at the knee I can lift the operated leg up some. But not without pain. I'll discuss this one more time with the Dr. next month. Maybe ligaments are the cause???? But other than that I'm doing really well. I'm considering stopping PT next month after I see my Dr. I think about my bending everytime I get on my hands and knees to scrub the tub, or play with my dog, or clean under those dark and scarey places in the house :dizzy: where the dreaded "dust bunnies" live. But I am careful and always make sure I pay attention to how I'm getting up and try to use my upper body.
balleteach - good to see you! Yes our board is growing. Hopefully we can help anyone thinking about or going through the hip proceedure. I know for me it was very scarey. Now, well at least when it's time for the other one I know what to expect.
Well friends I have to run. I have an appointment for my allergy shots this morning. Have a great day!! Looking forward to hearing from you all soon.....
silver - boy you really are a Yankees fan to go to Baltimore!! I hope they get going soon!! :rolleyes: Great news about your checkup. While I don't sit with my legs crossed (just never could do it) I do cross my ankles. I'd wait a little on that lift. I too thought that one was longer than the other but it worked itself out. The drugs before the dentist don't make me very happy. I too am going for dental work and have to pop the pills an hour prior go getting there. I had the dentist laughing....I said next I'll need Monostat!! :D
hip2it - I love gardening. Unfortunately we live in an appartment here in NY but I tried the garden thing in Pa. The deer and the rest of the little critters in the area had a buffet!!! Unfortunately not being there full time ment they had open invitations to my plants. I've come to the conclusion that stairs will be my limitation. I still can not do a straight leg lift if both legs are down. If I raise my right leg to a bending position at the knee I can lift the operated leg up some. But not without pain. I'll discuss this one more time with the Dr. next month. Maybe ligaments are the cause???? But other than that I'm doing really well. I'm considering stopping PT next month after I see my Dr. I think about my bending everytime I get on my hands and knees to scrub the tub, or play with my dog, or clean under those dark and scarey places in the house :dizzy: where the dreaded "dust bunnies" live. But I am careful and always make sure I pay attention to how I'm getting up and try to use my upper body.
balleteach - good to see you! Yes our board is growing. Hopefully we can help anyone thinking about or going through the hip proceedure. I know for me it was very scarey. Now, well at least when it's time for the other one I know what to expect.
Well friends I have to run. I have an appointment for my allergy shots this morning. Have a great day!! Looking forward to hearing from you all soon.....
Ripanco
04-20-2005, 12:12 PM
Hi Everyone,
I just found this board today, so I am brand new here. So glad to have found you though! I am having bilateral THP next month, so I am full of questions and it is best to hear from those who have gone through it!
I love hearing all the little things that you found helped or hurt your recovery as well as your personal experiences, especially in the hospital.
I am a 53 yr old female with nasty osteoarthritis and anteverted hips that has completely destoyed all the catilage in my hips. I also have spodololythiesis on L4-5 which will probably require surgery as soon as my hips are healed enough. I am very active, hubby and I are both semi competetive (citizen masters) athletes, running and cross country skiing. We also do lots of cross training like rollerblading, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, swimming, biking, yoga, etc. My arthritis has stopped my running totally and I do most of the rest in pain. So I am so ready to get my new hips!!
I am working hard to stay in shape and strong for my surgery. I have a wonderful doc that I trust completly. He is doing minimal, single incision and giving me metal/plastic because he knows I want to run again. If I was not going to run, he would have used ceramic/ceramic. At any rate, I hope this thread continues so that I can glean some wisdom from all of your experiences! Thanks!
I just found this board today, so I am brand new here. So glad to have found you though! I am having bilateral THP next month, so I am full of questions and it is best to hear from those who have gone through it!
I love hearing all the little things that you found helped or hurt your recovery as well as your personal experiences, especially in the hospital.
I am a 53 yr old female with nasty osteoarthritis and anteverted hips that has completely destoyed all the catilage in my hips. I also have spodololythiesis on L4-5 which will probably require surgery as soon as my hips are healed enough. I am very active, hubby and I are both semi competetive (citizen masters) athletes, running and cross country skiing. We also do lots of cross training like rollerblading, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, swimming, biking, yoga, etc. My arthritis has stopped my running totally and I do most of the rest in pain. So I am so ready to get my new hips!!
I am working hard to stay in shape and strong for my surgery. I have a wonderful doc that I trust completly. He is doing minimal, single incision and giving me metal/plastic because he knows I want to run again. If I was not going to run, he would have used ceramic/ceramic. At any rate, I hope this thread continues so that I can glean some wisdom from all of your experiences! Thanks!
balleteach
04-21-2005, 10:39 PM
Welcome to our "hippie hipsters board!" We've been posting for awhile now, so if you try to go back into the archives, you will be able to read about our experiences and catch up. We are all at different stages of our hip-replacement and you will glean much info from our stories. I'm the senior member so far. It will be 10yrs for me in July. I had the surgery at 50yrs old and it seemed like I was considered young at the time. Anyway, we started on the arthiritis board, so I'm not sure where the past posts are. See if you can find them. Keep posting with questions... balleteach
MrsLinda
04-22-2005, 08:27 AM
Morning Hippie Friends and Welcome Ripanco! I'm glad you found us! So you're having bilateral THR next month. I'm sure you have questions.....fire away!
I had my surgery last August. I'm 54 soon to be 55 in June. As as balleteach said, I thought I was too young until I started reading and doing research. My surgery was the standard incision and proceedure. I spent 5 days in a hospital and then 12 in a wonderful rehabilitation hospital here in the Northeast. I'm still doing some PT because of a minor "inconvienence" I have with stairs and moving the leg "up and over" objects.
Oh!!! I went on the bike yesterday at PT and loved it!!! I asked my PT why I wasn't on the bike :confused: when so many of "my friends" were using them for therepy. So he put me on, raised the seat and pushed the seat back some. I loved it!! I can't wait to use it again!! :D I actually felt good.
So Ripanco, lay those questions on us!!!! And again, welcome and I hope everyone has a great day.
I had my surgery last August. I'm 54 soon to be 55 in June. As as balleteach said, I thought I was too young until I started reading and doing research. My surgery was the standard incision and proceedure. I spent 5 days in a hospital and then 12 in a wonderful rehabilitation hospital here in the Northeast. I'm still doing some PT because of a minor "inconvienence" I have with stairs and moving the leg "up and over" objects.
Oh!!! I went on the bike yesterday at PT and loved it!!! I asked my PT why I wasn't on the bike :confused: when so many of "my friends" were using them for therepy. So he put me on, raised the seat and pushed the seat back some. I loved it!! I can't wait to use it again!! :D I actually felt good.
So Ripanco, lay those questions on us!!!! And again, welcome and I hope everyone has a great day.
Ripanco
04-22-2005, 11:43 AM
Well, if really you all don't mind all the questions, I do have a few:). I have read through all of this thread and did glean lots of imput and some of my worries have been addressed at least partially. One thing is really bothering me and I know in my head it is foolish, but the whole thought of it is mortifying to me. It looks like I may have my period just in time for my surgery!!! I know I will have to call my dr's office but I do have a hard time asking about this. I have fibroids so do can not use bc pills so it is not easy or safe to try to stop my period with hormones. I do have some very heavy days early in my cycle which of course is pretty long, like 5-7 days. I have searched for some info on how to deal with this and can't find anything. I did ask on this site on the general questions and got some good info there. Not what I wanted to hear of course..."it is their problem, let them worry about it". That just horrifies me! I wonder why I couldn't use a tampon? One lady got to wear special mesh panities, but I am assuming that will be impossible with double thp. I remember reading sometime ago about a 'menstrual cup'? Anyone ever hear of this? Would this work? Ugh. Any thoughts? And what about shaving? I read one place that said you couldn't shave for 4 days before surgery.
Did most of you have an epidural? How soon after the surgery where you able to use the bathroom? That is one of the criteria to being discharged and I want out of there asap!! I have to stay at least 3 days, but I know I can recover faster at home. Which type of raise toilet seat do you think is best, the free standing one or the one that sits on the regular seat. What about walking aids? I have a walker that I borrowed from my Dad. Are canes easier to get around with? I figure I may want to start with the walker then move on to a cane. Ms Linda, I know you are still having trouble with stairs, so sorry to hear that. I hope I don't have that problem since our home is definatly 3 levels. We are moving our bed into the living room but how long before I can think about stairs? What other aids helped you in day to day living? How about clothing? Anything especially easy? And did you really need special chairs? See, I told you had had a 'few' questions!!
I have a great, sweet hubby who is taking a week off work to stay home with me and my 21 yr old son is graduating college just in time to come home and run my business for the summer. I own and run a boarding/grooming kennel so there is no down time there! I am so glad to hear that lots of you are very active and have been able to return to your activity in a pretty short time. I know I am not good with being patient. DH and son are already planning on having to tie me down, but I really want this surgery to be a complete sucess so I will try really hard to follow orders.
So thanks again, I do appreciate your wisdom and experience. Have a great day everyone!!
Did most of you have an epidural? How soon after the surgery where you able to use the bathroom? That is one of the criteria to being discharged and I want out of there asap!! I have to stay at least 3 days, but I know I can recover faster at home. Which type of raise toilet seat do you think is best, the free standing one or the one that sits on the regular seat. What about walking aids? I have a walker that I borrowed from my Dad. Are canes easier to get around with? I figure I may want to start with the walker then move on to a cane. Ms Linda, I know you are still having trouble with stairs, so sorry to hear that. I hope I don't have that problem since our home is definatly 3 levels. We are moving our bed into the living room but how long before I can think about stairs? What other aids helped you in day to day living? How about clothing? Anything especially easy? And did you really need special chairs? See, I told you had had a 'few' questions!!
I have a great, sweet hubby who is taking a week off work to stay home with me and my 21 yr old son is graduating college just in time to come home and run my business for the summer. I own and run a boarding/grooming kennel so there is no down time there! I am so glad to hear that lots of you are very active and have been able to return to your activity in a pretty short time. I know I am not good with being patient. DH and son are already planning on having to tie me down, but I really want this surgery to be a complete sucess so I will try really hard to follow orders.
So thanks again, I do appreciate your wisdom and experience. Have a great day everyone!!
legtoolong
04-22-2005, 01:33 PM
Hi Ripanco,
I had a general anesthesia. I couldn't imagine hearing them saw and drill; I probably would have passed out anyway. I used a free standing raised toilet seat which also could have been used as a bedside commode. It was very nice since it could be adjusted height wise and my husband gradually lowered it before I quit using it. I had my hips done about 14 months apart and both were press fit titanium with ceramic socket and ball. I used a walker for 6 weeks as prescribed by my doc. I used a cane for a short time after the 6 weeks on the second hip since the leg turned out too long.
I'm still dealing with the too long part now trying to get the right lift in my shoe and more physical therapy. Do ask your Dr. how he is going to make sure your legs are the same length. It may be easier with both being done at the same time. Since I was on my side, they couldn't really compare the two legs during surgery.
For clothing, I liked pull on pants and loafers. I didn't like the elastic laces. A long handled shoe horn is great. I didn't buy the sock aid since I had my husband to put on my socks. I used my computer chair at the table because it has arms and wheels so I could maneuver a little with my good leg. I don't know what will work for you. The other chair I used a lot was the arm chair from my dining room set. The arms really help in getting up. The other essential thing is a long handled grabber (Gopher is a brand name) to pick up things you drop or grab a Kleenex out of the box that is just out of reach or the remote you dropped on the floor. You can find them on the internet quite reasonably.
Hope this helps.
I had a general anesthesia. I couldn't imagine hearing them saw and drill; I probably would have passed out anyway. I used a free standing raised toilet seat which also could have been used as a bedside commode. It was very nice since it could be adjusted height wise and my husband gradually lowered it before I quit using it. I had my hips done about 14 months apart and both were press fit titanium with ceramic socket and ball. I used a walker for 6 weeks as prescribed by my doc. I used a cane for a short time after the 6 weeks on the second hip since the leg turned out too long.
I'm still dealing with the too long part now trying to get the right lift in my shoe and more physical therapy. Do ask your Dr. how he is going to make sure your legs are the same length. It may be easier with both being done at the same time. Since I was on my side, they couldn't really compare the two legs during surgery.
For clothing, I liked pull on pants and loafers. I didn't like the elastic laces. A long handled shoe horn is great. I didn't buy the sock aid since I had my husband to put on my socks. I used my computer chair at the table because it has arms and wheels so I could maneuver a little with my good leg. I don't know what will work for you. The other chair I used a lot was the arm chair from my dining room set. The arms really help in getting up. The other essential thing is a long handled grabber (Gopher is a brand name) to pick up things you drop or grab a Kleenex out of the box that is just out of reach or the remote you dropped on the floor. You can find them on the internet quite reasonably.
Hope this helps.
hip2it
04-22-2005, 11:15 PM
Howdy hippies! Welcome legtoolong and Ripanco...
I know how you feel with all those questions... just keep them coming and we'll try to answer what we can.
I'm 46 and had my left hip THR last November (almost 5 months now). Here are some of my experiences... The surgery was 2 1/2 hours. I didn't wake up until I got to my room. They have a catheter in you, so you don't need to get to a bathroom until they take it out. I think that was the second or third day. I had general anesthesia and an epidural. Most people had the epidural during their hospital stay but in my case, I couldn't use the muscles in my good leg enough to do therapy so they took it out on day 2. I just got pain medicine for the pain instead.
They get you up and walking the first day. The PT in the hospital started me on a walker but by my 4th day I was on crutches (sometimes only one crutch). I was in the hospital only 5 days and then went home. The drive home was interesting because it's not comfortable to sit quite yet. You have to lean back in the chair so that your hip is less flexed at first. I sat in the back seat with my back to the door and my legs out on the seat. It was pretty weird but definately good to get out.
After the first week using one crutch, I switched to a cane. What I remember most was having to put pillows on the chairs. I have a lazy-boy recliner but I couldn't sit on it because it was not high enough. You need to have your hips above your knee level. At first you can't sit up real good. I got a calligraphy set but every time I leaned forward to write it was difficult. The computer was hard because of that too. You might want to get a bed lap desk or a clipboard or something like that to do writing or activities on. I went crazy sitting home but I got crafts to do. It was just before Christmas so I made Christmas ornaments and basted t-shirts to do tye dyeing for presents. I also did a bit of knitting.
The chair you should aim for should have arms. It should be high enough to get into without having to bend (a pillow or two in a glider rocking chair was what I used). I had a tray table on the floor to keep my stuff and I always had the cane and the grabber nearby. I used the sock thing for my socks (it was cool to use). I wore clogs when I went out and slip on slippers at home. I didn't bother with pants for a few weeks (just a night-shirt).
The toilet seat they gave me had a 'pail' in it so that you can put it right beside your bed or you could take that part out and put it over the toilet. The day they took the catheter out in the hospital they had one of these toilets beside the bed. Later in the hospital I used the bathroom since it has a real high seat... but wiping is harder than sitting :D
The other hard thing is getting into bed. I used quite a bit of upper body to lift myself using a metal loop over the head of the bed. It was the only way to shift myself if I needed to. I'm sure you will have a difficult time with both legs at the same time (not sure how it will work).
I also found that a pillow under my knees while I sleep on my back was most helpful. It was hard to keep my legs straight for a while. It is really annoying sleeping on your back when you are a side sleeper like me.
I also don't have any idea about your period coming... I'm not sure what they would do about that, but I will say that I did not feel the catheter at all (everything was so numb in my hip) and I asked them what I do if I have to go and they showed me the catheter. That was really weird.
As you can see, I'm a talker. But, as long as you don't mind reading I can keep commenting... Boy, I'm starting to remember all those early days. It seems so long ago. Now I'm doing quite a bit (almost normal but not quite yet). I'll write more when I get a chance. Keep those questions coming and we'll all try to remember some tips for you...
I know how you feel with all those questions... just keep them coming and we'll try to answer what we can.
I'm 46 and had my left hip THR last November (almost 5 months now). Here are some of my experiences... The surgery was 2 1/2 hours. I didn't wake up until I got to my room. They have a catheter in you, so you don't need to get to a bathroom until they take it out. I think that was the second or third day. I had general anesthesia and an epidural. Most people had the epidural during their hospital stay but in my case, I couldn't use the muscles in my good leg enough to do therapy so they took it out on day 2. I just got pain medicine for the pain instead.
They get you up and walking the first day. The PT in the hospital started me on a walker but by my 4th day I was on crutches (sometimes only one crutch). I was in the hospital only 5 days and then went home. The drive home was interesting because it's not comfortable to sit quite yet. You have to lean back in the chair so that your hip is less flexed at first. I sat in the back seat with my back to the door and my legs out on the seat. It was pretty weird but definately good to get out.
After the first week using one crutch, I switched to a cane. What I remember most was having to put pillows on the chairs. I have a lazy-boy recliner but I couldn't sit on it because it was not high enough. You need to have your hips above your knee level. At first you can't sit up real good. I got a calligraphy set but every time I leaned forward to write it was difficult. The computer was hard because of that too. You might want to get a bed lap desk or a clipboard or something like that to do writing or activities on. I went crazy sitting home but I got crafts to do. It was just before Christmas so I made Christmas ornaments and basted t-shirts to do tye dyeing for presents. I also did a bit of knitting.
The chair you should aim for should have arms. It should be high enough to get into without having to bend (a pillow or two in a glider rocking chair was what I used). I had a tray table on the floor to keep my stuff and I always had the cane and the grabber nearby. I used the sock thing for my socks (it was cool to use). I wore clogs when I went out and slip on slippers at home. I didn't bother with pants for a few weeks (just a night-shirt).
The toilet seat they gave me had a 'pail' in it so that you can put it right beside your bed or you could take that part out and put it over the toilet. The day they took the catheter out in the hospital they had one of these toilets beside the bed. Later in the hospital I used the bathroom since it has a real high seat... but wiping is harder than sitting :D
The other hard thing is getting into bed. I used quite a bit of upper body to lift myself using a metal loop over the head of the bed. It was the only way to shift myself if I needed to. I'm sure you will have a difficult time with both legs at the same time (not sure how it will work).
I also found that a pillow under my knees while I sleep on my back was most helpful. It was hard to keep my legs straight for a while. It is really annoying sleeping on your back when you are a side sleeper like me.
I also don't have any idea about your period coming... I'm not sure what they would do about that, but I will say that I did not feel the catheter at all (everything was so numb in my hip) and I asked them what I do if I have to go and they showed me the catheter. That was really weird.
As you can see, I'm a talker. But, as long as you don't mind reading I can keep commenting... Boy, I'm starting to remember all those early days. It seems so long ago. Now I'm doing quite a bit (almost normal but not quite yet). I'll write more when I get a chance. Keep those questions coming and we'll all try to remember some tips for you...
silver515
04-23-2005, 12:15 AM
HI old hippie friends and welcome new ones. I was just going to write but hip2it answered most of the questions with similar answers that I would have given. I used the raised toilet with the pail, but put it over the toilet. I started out using a walker, but then switched to a cane...for awhile used both...practiced with a cane but was steadier with walker. I never did use crutches. The chair with arms is also important and probably a pillow will be necessary. I also had to sleep with that big foam thing between my legs for 6 wks and could then switch to a reg pillow for a few weeks. I also used a shower chair for awhile. I had to wear those white stockings for 6 wks...was so happy when I could give those up. My surgery was Jan 4th...right total hip...so much happier now...no pain...sometimes I feel pressure, but walking alot, going to the gym, and starting to feel more normal. It gets better all the time and NO PAIN!
Also Legtoolong....my right leg is slightly longer than my left now...dr said i could get a lift or wait. I decided to wait and see what happens...hopefully it will feel better...really don't want a lift and the difference it only about l/4 inch so maybe will even out.
I also had an epidural...was in the hospital for 3 days and then went to rehab for l5. I was really happy I did that, although my original plan was to go home. I had pt and ot there everyday....and I love those tools, sock thing, grabber, dressing stick, etc...
Good luck everyone..keep those questions coming...
Also Legtoolong....my right leg is slightly longer than my left now...dr said i could get a lift or wait. I decided to wait and see what happens...hopefully it will feel better...really don't want a lift and the difference it only about l/4 inch so maybe will even out.
I also had an epidural...was in the hospital for 3 days and then went to rehab for l5. I was really happy I did that, although my original plan was to go home. I had pt and ot there everyday....and I love those tools, sock thing, grabber, dressing stick, etc...
Good luck everyone..keep those questions coming...
legtoolong
04-23-2005, 11:37 AM
....deleted.....
MrsLinda
04-23-2005, 04:18 PM
Afternoon everyone! Boy our thread is getting busy! I love it! Welcome legtoolong!!
Ripanco - I had general anethsia I elected to have this. I didn't want to know anything nor did I want to hear anything!!
DH purchased this toilet seat seat that fitted over the regular seat. It was ok. For the next hip I'm going to use the comode. It slips right over the entire toilet. And I'm more comfortable on it.
As for the stairs....I was doing stairs as soon as I got into the rehab facility. But not like we do normally. You bring up the good leg and stop. Then bring up the operated leg. So at this point they are both on the same step. You'll be fine. But good move on setting up the bed in the livingroom. My problem now is more of an inconvienence. I can do stairs, but the more I do the harder they are and I begin to get this "pulling" in the groin area. I'll get to the bottom of it soon. :)
Hip chair...it was recommended and used in the rehab facility. You can not sit with the knees higher than that hip and this chair is perfect. You kinda just "back into it" without any bending. We rented it. You can rent them from most surgical supply houses. And you need to sit in a chair with arms.
I was sent home from rehab with cushions and also every gadget to make my life easier; long handled shoe horn, leg lifter, (which was the only way for awhile I could get in and out of bed alone) grabber, dressing stick....oh and this great gadget for putting on socks. I came home with such a care package and some of the things I use still today!!
Since you're having the surgery when the weather is warm, if you're going to rehab bring shorts and light weight tee shirts. Sneakers are fine if you like them, because your Occupational Therepy person will probably give you elastic laces. I loved them.
If you're not going to rehab, ask at the PT at the hospital if the "hip package" is available. That contains all the above mentioned gadgets. And then if you're home, you can wear whatever you feel good in.
As for the problem of your period; sorry. Mine stopped exactly 1 year ago so I didn't have that worry.
I came home with 2 canes and within 1 week after being sent home I was down to 1. I have no limp and both of the legs seem to be even.
hip2it - I too thought I wanted to come home after the surgery. I'm so glad I didn't. I had PT 2x's a day and OT 2x's a day. And since I had that fainting episode in the hospital, I ever got out of bed until the day they were transfering me out!!!
silver - you had an epi?? God Bless you!!! I was such a baby and insisted I'd be out cold!!! Hey...our Yankees aren't doing so good!!!!!
Well I have to go. Nice to see this thread growing so. Please keep the questions coming. There's enough of us to answer them!!! Have a great day everyone and again welcome to our new "hippie friends".
Ripanco - I had general anethsia I elected to have this. I didn't want to know anything nor did I want to hear anything!!
DH purchased this toilet seat seat that fitted over the regular seat. It was ok. For the next hip I'm going to use the comode. It slips right over the entire toilet. And I'm more comfortable on it.
As for the stairs....I was doing stairs as soon as I got into the rehab facility. But not like we do normally. You bring up the good leg and stop. Then bring up the operated leg. So at this point they are both on the same step. You'll be fine. But good move on setting up the bed in the livingroom. My problem now is more of an inconvienence. I can do stairs, but the more I do the harder they are and I begin to get this "pulling" in the groin area. I'll get to the bottom of it soon. :)
Hip chair...it was recommended and used in the rehab facility. You can not sit with the knees higher than that hip and this chair is perfect. You kinda just "back into it" without any bending. We rented it. You can rent them from most surgical supply houses. And you need to sit in a chair with arms.
I was sent home from rehab with cushions and also every gadget to make my life easier; long handled shoe horn, leg lifter, (which was the only way for awhile I could get in and out of bed alone) grabber, dressing stick....oh and this great gadget for putting on socks. I came home with such a care package and some of the things I use still today!!
Since you're having the surgery when the weather is warm, if you're going to rehab bring shorts and light weight tee shirts. Sneakers are fine if you like them, because your Occupational Therepy person will probably give you elastic laces. I loved them.
If you're not going to rehab, ask at the PT at the hospital if the "hip package" is available. That contains all the above mentioned gadgets. And then if you're home, you can wear whatever you feel good in.
As for the problem of your period; sorry. Mine stopped exactly 1 year ago so I didn't have that worry.
I came home with 2 canes and within 1 week after being sent home I was down to 1. I have no limp and both of the legs seem to be even.
hip2it - I too thought I wanted to come home after the surgery. I'm so glad I didn't. I had PT 2x's a day and OT 2x's a day. And since I had that fainting episode in the hospital, I ever got out of bed until the day they were transfering me out!!!
silver - you had an epi?? God Bless you!!! I was such a baby and insisted I'd be out cold!!! Hey...our Yankees aren't doing so good!!!!!
Well I have to go. Nice to see this thread growing so. Please keep the questions coming. There's enough of us to answer them!!! Have a great day everyone and again welcome to our new "hippie friends".
balleteach
04-23-2005, 04:29 PM
Greetings all. Well, it's ANOTHER rainy day in sunny Calif. This is great for the snow-pack and as the old saying goes "April showers bring May flowers." But, I'm ready for the nice, warm weather!! Ripanco, I understand your concerns about having the surgery during your period. When my THR was being scheduled, I checked way ahead on my calender so there wouldn't be any conflicts with " that time of the month." Heaven knows, we don't need any extra stress or concerns going into surgery. I was very upfront with my surgeon and told him I just wasn't going to be on my period for the surgery. He is a wonderful Dr. and said we could schedule it anytime that was best for me. So, I went in a couple of days after my period and felt like a million bucks!! Plus this gave me a few weeks before I had to deal with it again. It was easy for me to plan because I was always regular like clockwork.
I also want to mention the fact that many years ago my surgeon told me that antibiotics for the dentist were not necessary anymore. He had been to medical conferences and the new consensus was that
they weren't necessary after THR. It worked out good for me because I have a reaction to them. My dentist was surprised and checked for himself then also agreed. I don't really remember if I ever took them. I know I had my cleaning before the surgery and didn't go back for several months after THR. I have a friend who is five weeks out from his hip surgery and the Dr told him they recommend taking them up to two years after, but the Dr also didn't think it was necessary. I've had very extensive dental work done in the last several years with no problems except huge dental bills!! That's about it for now... So glad the board is growing, balleteach
I also want to mention the fact that many years ago my surgeon told me that antibiotics for the dentist were not necessary anymore. He had been to medical conferences and the new consensus was that
they weren't necessary after THR. It worked out good for me because I have a reaction to them. My dentist was surprised and checked for himself then also agreed. I don't really remember if I ever took them. I know I had my cleaning before the surgery and didn't go back for several months after THR. I have a friend who is five weeks out from his hip surgery and the Dr told him they recommend taking them up to two years after, but the Dr also didn't think it was necessary. I've had very extensive dental work done in the last several years with no problems except huge dental bills!! That's about it for now... So glad the board is growing, balleteach
silver515
04-24-2005, 11:09 AM
Hmmm...next time I go to the dentist I will have to question the antibiotics. WHen I went last week and told them about the THR the first thing they said was did you take your med...otherwise we can't work on you. He is usually up on the latest, I will have to check it out. I really don't like taking them...had to take 4 amoxicilln one hour before....and I have been taking acidofolus to avoid that "other" problem... ANtibiotics always bother my stomach.
wigs
04-24-2005, 04:00 PM
Hi!
This thread is excellent - have been sat glued to the computer each night checking it!! You all sound really positive about your hip replacements which is good to hear as i am due for mine in less than two weeks!!! If anone thinks of anything i should know or be doing before hand let me know!! (Have been looking for elastic laces as these sound great but cant find them anywhere!) Also i have to use Cydal soap for four days before op - did anyone else have to?? Anyway will keep checking new posts as i love hearing all the advice!!! Keep hippy and happy.......Wigs
This thread is excellent - have been sat glued to the computer each night checking it!! You all sound really positive about your hip replacements which is good to hear as i am due for mine in less than two weeks!!! If anone thinks of anything i should know or be doing before hand let me know!! (Have been looking for elastic laces as these sound great but cant find them anywhere!) Also i have to use Cydal soap for four days before op - did anyone else have to?? Anyway will keep checking new posts as i love hearing all the advice!!! Keep hippy and happy.......Wigs
silver515
04-24-2005, 08:50 PM
Hi and welcome wigs! This board is great isn't it....I had to use PhisoHex for about l0 days before the surgery. I know that not everyone has to do that, but I guess it makes sense. If you can't find elastic laces, your occupational therapist can probably give you a pair or order them for you.. THey were great, you can just slip on your sneakers and not worry about anything. Just think positive....the first week or so will be uncomfortable, but just keep thinking ahead and how you will be able to walk and do what you want without pain. It will get better even if you don't think so in the beginning...it's just gets better and better. The bad arthritic pain will be gone right away...there will be surgery pain, but that is totally different. GOOD LUCK and post any questions you may have. We hippies all keep helping each other!!!!
Colinsmom
04-24-2005, 09:20 PM
Hi All,
My first (left) THR was 3/29/05 so it's been a bit less than 4 weeks. I've learned a lot reading all of this thread as well as the others, especially how different all the surgeries and recoveries are for everyone.
I haven't read about anyone experiencing low-grade fevers (99.6 - 99.8) on a continual basis as I have. Not every day any more, but still fairly consistently in the evening about 6:00 pm for a couple of hours. They are accompanied by extreme fatigue and tiredness. I don't go to my surgeon for another two weeks, and his nurse hasn't seemed particularly alarmed which is probably reasonable since it happens at day's end. Unfortunately, I had a very bad experience with my primary care physician just before my surgery so I don't have anyone to discuss this with although I plan to find a new doc this week. Thoughts?
Also, I rejected the idea of donating my own blood before surgery because I've had three other surgeries with no problems. However, I needed 2 pints in the hospital so I'm re-thinking this for my second one in September.
Wigs, I have quite a few aids (walker, cane, attached bar by the shower/tub and across from the toilet, and then raised-portable potty too) but I really wish I'd gotten the sock put-er-on-er. Instead I have to ask my husband 2-3 times a day since I'm a real around the house socklet person except when resting. I also recommend you line up help the entire week after you're released from the hospital. My husband had some work commitments that kept him away a few days and it took me completely by surprised how helpless I was. Fortunately, friends pitched in but next time I'll have it covered beforehand.
I'm 52, will be 53 in July. My right hip has been diagnosed with osteo-arthritis for about 3 years. I just lived with it. Last fall, the left hip deteriorated to the same bone on bone level in just 3 months with tissue tears to boot. That's when we scheduled THR and why we did it first.
By the way, I want to adopt my physical therapist.
My first (left) THR was 3/29/05 so it's been a bit less than 4 weeks. I've learned a lot reading all of this thread as well as the others, especially how different all the surgeries and recoveries are for everyone.
I haven't read about anyone experiencing low-grade fevers (99.6 - 99.8) on a continual basis as I have. Not every day any more, but still fairly consistently in the evening about 6:00 pm for a couple of hours. They are accompanied by extreme fatigue and tiredness. I don't go to my surgeon for another two weeks, and his nurse hasn't seemed particularly alarmed which is probably reasonable since it happens at day's end. Unfortunately, I had a very bad experience with my primary care physician just before my surgery so I don't have anyone to discuss this with although I plan to find a new doc this week. Thoughts?
Also, I rejected the idea of donating my own blood before surgery because I've had three other surgeries with no problems. However, I needed 2 pints in the hospital so I'm re-thinking this for my second one in September.
Wigs, I have quite a few aids (walker, cane, attached bar by the shower/tub and across from the toilet, and then raised-portable potty too) but I really wish I'd gotten the sock put-er-on-er. Instead I have to ask my husband 2-3 times a day since I'm a real around the house socklet person except when resting. I also recommend you line up help the entire week after you're released from the hospital. My husband had some work commitments that kept him away a few days and it took me completely by surprised how helpless I was. Fortunately, friends pitched in but next time I'll have it covered beforehand.
I'm 52, will be 53 in July. My right hip has been diagnosed with osteo-arthritis for about 3 years. I just lived with it. Last fall, the left hip deteriorated to the same bone on bone level in just 3 months with tissue tears to boot. That's when we scheduled THR and why we did it first.
By the way, I want to adopt my physical therapist.
balleteach
04-24-2005, 11:24 PM
Welcome all new hippie hipsters. I'm so glad to see this board growing. It would have been great for me to be able to get personal information and advice. At the time of my THR I wasn't able to talk to anyone about the details of the surgery and recovery. It's so nice now to answer questions and concerns. My THR was in July 1995 and if I remember correctly, I just went barefoot for awhile. I seem to remember my husband helping me with socks. Then I think I wore slip-ons then gradually tennis shoes that my husband helped me with. I never wore any kind of stocking except maybe in the hospital. I came right home from the hospital and had visiting nurses for the first few weeks to help with exercises. I started with a walker, then quickly to two crutches then one. Finally, I used a cane.
It probably is amazing to all of you because you are new to THR, but honestly I have forgotten some details. That's why I'm enjoying this board so much because discussing everything brings back the memories. I've had other health concerns since my surgery, but I really feel like the "new" hip is just a part of me now. Again, welcome newbies and keep on posting... balleteach
It probably is amazing to all of you because you are new to THR, but honestly I have forgotten some details. That's why I'm enjoying this board so much because discussing everything brings back the memories. I've had other health concerns since my surgery, but I really feel like the "new" hip is just a part of me now. Again, welcome newbies and keep on posting... balleteach
wigs
04-25-2005, 01:54 PM
Hi all!
Read a book about 'what the docs don't tell you' last night re hip replacement. Big mistake. Have scared myself silly and am now stressing out. How limiting is the hip? I know everyones different but am getting worried as i read that you can't sit cross legged ever agin, you can't touch your feet, you cant move the hip in certain angles etc..
I am young for a new hip (only 25!) so am trying to work out whats best. Also - is anyone else on methotrexate? I hate being on it.
Ok thats about it for now - hope you all are ok! Look forward to reading thread again tomorrow!
Read a book about 'what the docs don't tell you' last night re hip replacement. Big mistake. Have scared myself silly and am now stressing out. How limiting is the hip? I know everyones different but am getting worried as i read that you can't sit cross legged ever agin, you can't touch your feet, you cant move the hip in certain angles etc..
I am young for a new hip (only 25!) so am trying to work out whats best. Also - is anyone else on methotrexate? I hate being on it.
Ok thats about it for now - hope you all are ok! Look forward to reading thread again tomorrow!
PirouetteGirl
04-25-2005, 06:46 PM
I am a new poster- I am also a ballet teacher- 15 years of teaching now for a professional school- I have osteoarthritis in my right hip and it has become very limiting in the past few years. My turnout is completely gone on that side, can't lift my leg past about 30 degrees, pain, changes in posture, etc. I am considering a ceramic THR and am most concerned about post op expectations- I want to return to teaching, of course, and would like to be able to do more than what I am doing now- balleteach, what about turnout and plies? I have specific dancer questions that no one can really answer for me! Any information in that vein would be appreciated!
hip2it
04-25-2005, 06:50 PM
Wow! what a totally hip group! Hello to everyone. There were so many questions from all of you... where do I begin.
First off Wigs, I was scared when I read all that about flexibility after the surgery too. It has been almost 5 months since my surgury and I can put on my own socks (without using any aids - I can even get my leg up to rest it on my other knee but I don't think I should do this... instead I just lean over and put my THR foot on top of my other foot and do the sock and shoe thing like that). I can ride bikes, bend over (I have been doing gardening). There is a little pulling sometimes and I'm extremely careful but I can now sit with straight legs and touch my toes. I couldn't do this with the arthritis. I am a little younger than most people here (I'm only 46) and it's different with everyone. I thought I would not be able to do as much as I am now (and it will only get better).
Collinsmom - no experience with any fevers. But, it does sound like you should get someone that you can trust in the way of a doctor about that.
Here is one other silly story... I got these cool 'sketchers' clogs that looked like they were tie shoes but you could slip into them. They were brand new before the surgery. I thought I would be so smart. What I didn't account for was this... the first couple of times I wore them, the tongue got pushed into the shoe and I couldn't bend down and get it out (the grabber wasn't strong enough either). Here I was all prepared and I had to have someone else pull the tongue out. If any of you haven't yet done the surgery I would suggest getting used to your clogs before surgery so that they are broken in first.
As for the antibiotics before the dentist. My doctor said it wasn't necessary for a cleaning (but perhaps for major digging dental work). However, the dentist had another idea. I think they are thinking about law suits in the dentists office... I really don't blame them. When I got to the dentist he was hopping mad that I hadn't told him and he gave me some to take right there :nono: (and a prescription for the next 2 years). Since my cleaning is never bad and I don't bleed much he cut me a break and didn't make me wait an hour.
I would say that the best thing to do before you go is to get in the best muscular shape that you can (to help with the recovery) and somehow take yoga or practice meditation so that you can help yourself deal with the inevitable impatience that we all have. It seems we have arthritis for years and put up with it but after the surgery we want to be up and running around in weeks... patience is hard to find (that's why we all talk in this thread... to prevent us all from going crazy and to reassure each other that it really does get better)... ;)
Keep posting!
First off Wigs, I was scared when I read all that about flexibility after the surgery too. It has been almost 5 months since my surgury and I can put on my own socks (without using any aids - I can even get my leg up to rest it on my other knee but I don't think I should do this... instead I just lean over and put my THR foot on top of my other foot and do the sock and shoe thing like that). I can ride bikes, bend over (I have been doing gardening). There is a little pulling sometimes and I'm extremely careful but I can now sit with straight legs and touch my toes. I couldn't do this with the arthritis. I am a little younger than most people here (I'm only 46) and it's different with everyone. I thought I would not be able to do as much as I am now (and it will only get better).
Collinsmom - no experience with any fevers. But, it does sound like you should get someone that you can trust in the way of a doctor about that.
Here is one other silly story... I got these cool 'sketchers' clogs that looked like they were tie shoes but you could slip into them. They were brand new before the surgery. I thought I would be so smart. What I didn't account for was this... the first couple of times I wore them, the tongue got pushed into the shoe and I couldn't bend down and get it out (the grabber wasn't strong enough either). Here I was all prepared and I had to have someone else pull the tongue out. If any of you haven't yet done the surgery I would suggest getting used to your clogs before surgery so that they are broken in first.
As for the antibiotics before the dentist. My doctor said it wasn't necessary for a cleaning (but perhaps for major digging dental work). However, the dentist had another idea. I think they are thinking about law suits in the dentists office... I really don't blame them. When I got to the dentist he was hopping mad that I hadn't told him and he gave me some to take right there :nono: (and a prescription for the next 2 years). Since my cleaning is never bad and I don't bleed much he cut me a break and didn't make me wait an hour.
I would say that the best thing to do before you go is to get in the best muscular shape that you can (to help with the recovery) and somehow take yoga or practice meditation so that you can help yourself deal with the inevitable impatience that we all have. It seems we have arthritis for years and put up with it but after the surgery we want to be up and running around in weeks... patience is hard to find (that's why we all talk in this thread... to prevent us all from going crazy and to reassure each other that it really does get better)... ;)
Keep posting!
legtoolong
04-25-2005, 08:42 PM
HI Hip2it
My in home therapist did not approve of clogs or any backless shoe right after surgery. She said they were too unstable, not enough support.
My in home therapist did not approve of clogs or any backless shoe right after surgery. She said they were too unstable, not enough support.
balleteach
04-26-2005, 12:09 AM
Greetings hippie hipsters. Does this board rock or what!! PirouetteGirl, I can give you sooooo much info about my experiences after THR and returning to teaching. I hope you have read our previous posts from the beginning, because there is a lot of info already posted. I'll just start with a few things and you can ask me any questions you want. I returned to teaching at 11 weeks after surgery. I was still recuperating, but could move around. I went back to intermediate/adv. girls that I had been teaching for a few years. They all knew me and what I wanted, so teaching them was easy. It's great when they are to a point where you can demonstrate with your hands. I'm sure you know what I mean. After a few weeks I was able to do more demonstrating with combinations. Adage and port de bra were easy and turns got better as time went on. I was also able to demonstrate beats using the barre. Eventually I did more out in the center, but of course, not like I used to when I was dancing. You do have to curtail your jumping because the high impact, even with a good floor and plie can be hard on the hip. Much depends on your age , flexability and the shape you are in. I also taught some children's classes and pre-ballet. I really found the pre-ballet to be more difficult after THR. Getting up and down from the floor and doing some things with the little ones was more tiring then upper levels. I think it just depends on the teacher. I used to love the little ones and all the wonderful, creative work you can do with them. My turn-out felt great and was painless, but I didn't do full plies anymore. Be sure to ask any questions you can think of for me to answer.
Hippie hipsters, it sounds like you are all doing great. My THR side is alittle stiff today. Yesterday I was taking care of my 20lb grandaughter, lugging her around on my THR side with my hip stuck out. Ouch!! I used to do it with my older grandaughter and forgot how sore it can make that side. That's about it for tonight. Surprise, surprise, more rain is predicated for sunny Calif. this week.Talk to you later... balleteach
Hippie hipsters, it sounds like you are all doing great. My THR side is alittle stiff today. Yesterday I was taking care of my 20lb grandaughter, lugging her around on my THR side with my hip stuck out. Ouch!! I used to do it with my older grandaughter and forgot how sore it can make that side. That's about it for tonight. Surprise, surprise, more rain is predicated for sunny Calif. this week.Talk to you later... balleteach
balleteach
04-26-2005, 12:12 AM
Greetings hippie hipsters. Does this board rock or what!! PirouetteGirl, I can give you sooooo much info about my experiences after THR and returning to teaching. I hope you have read our previous posts from the beginning, because there is a lot of info already posted. I'll just start with a few things and you can ask me any questions you want. I returned to teaching at 11 weeks after surgery. I was still recuperating, but could move around. I went back to intermediate/adv. girls that I had been teaching for a few years. They all knew me and what I wanted, so teaching them was easy. It's great when they are to a point where you can demonstrate with your hands. I'm sure you know what I mean. After a few weeks I was able to do more demonstrating with combinations. Adage and port de bra were easy and turns got better as time went on. I was also able to demonstrate beats using the barre. Eventually I did more out in the center, but of course, not like I used to when I was dancing. You do have to curtail your jumping because the high impact, even with a good floor and plie can be hard on the hip. Much depends on your age , flexability and the shape you are in. I also taught some children's classes and pre-ballet. I really found the pre-ballet to be more difficult after THR. Getting up and down from the floor and doing some things with the little ones was more tiring then upper levels. I think it just depends on the teacher. I used to love the little ones and all the wonderful, creative work you can do with them. My turn-out felt great and was painless, but I didn't do full plies anymore. Be sure to ask any questions you can think of for me to answer.
Hippie hipsters, it sounds like you are all doing great. My THR side is a little stiff today. Yesterday I was taking care of my 20lb grandaughter, lugging her around on my THR side with my hip stuck out. Ouch!! I used to do it with my older grandaughter and forgot how sore it can make that side. That's about it for tonight. Surprise, surprise, more rain is predicated for sunny Calif. this week.Talk to you later... balleteach
Hippie hipsters, it sounds like you are all doing great. My THR side is a little stiff today. Yesterday I was taking care of my 20lb grandaughter, lugging her around on my THR side with my hip stuck out. Ouch!! I used to do it with my older grandaughter and forgot how sore it can make that side. That's about it for tonight. Surprise, surprise, more rain is predicated for sunny Calif. this week.Talk to you later... balleteach
Ellecram
04-26-2005, 12:15 AM
Please inquire ahead time about your accomodations in Greece - my fiance (who had 2 hip replacements and MS and I went there in 2002 and booked accomodations on a rather remote island - to get to the room we had to walk up this unbelievably steep hill - not a good situation but we managed - there was no mention of this in the hotel's advertisement - ask a lot of questions ahead of time!
balleteach
04-26-2005, 12:16 AM
It must be getting late. Sorry, I hit submit button twice. It's off to bed for me!! balleteach
PirouetteGirl
04-26-2005, 03:49 PM
I teach older students now- not much need for a whole lot of demonstrating. They're 13-14 years old, so still working on a lot of stuff- I have had trouble demonstrating things like brisee, sissone devant into attitude, things like that. I also have to mark everything that moves across the floor- little things are just so hard. It's very frustrating. My hardest class is an adult class for adult dancers who all started as adults- I have to do everything with them. It's hard for them to remember the combinations! I wind up really sore & stiff after that class. I'm in pretty good shape considering I can't move any more! But my flexibility is sooo gone. It's affected what I can do with my good leg also- my extension is gone on the good leg because of what happens to the hip placement. Also the support of that supporting leg is no longer there. Sigh. I love teaching- it's such a creative outlet for me. Otherwise I would have quit long ago, I guess. Right now I'm dealing with my insurance co's unwillingness to fill my celebrex prescription, which works best for me- my Dr. is going to prescribe something else, I don't know what.
MrsLinda
04-26-2005, 04:32 PM
Boy oh boy!!! I'm off the board a few days and it's multiplied!!!!! Welcome to all our new "hippie" friends! This is great!!!!
Colinsmom - I ran a low grade temp!! Totally forgot until you mentioned it!! I would be fine in the mornings and then around the late afternoon early evening it would go up. Never quite went above 100 if I remember, then as quick as it started it just stopped! I did keep track each day so I could let the Dr. know.
PirouetteGirl - I've been taken off Bextra and the Dr. has prescribed Mobic. I got samples and it's not bad. Actually works a little quicker than the Bextra in my opinion. Bextra would take a few days before I'd feel the results. Mobic seems to work instantly. Even though I had the THR in August of the left hip the right hip is quickly going downhill :eek: so I need "drugs" occasionally. But unfortunately I still have to have this drug "pre authorized" by the Dr. before the insurance co. will pay.
wigs - how about a comode? This was great for the nights and then when I could get around better, I slipped it over the regular toilet. I HATED that raised seat my DH picked up. I told DH the other day to toss that seat and when I have to get the other hip done we'll use the comode. If this was already suggested I appologize. I'm just a little late in reading all these great posts!!
I'm so behind in the post I forgot who asked this but - with regards to flexibility. I was never the flexible type to begin with. Never could sit cross leged on the floor!! :eek: However I can bend and touch my toes, I can put my socks on. I can sit in the tub, get on the floor. But remember....while you can do all of these great things you still have to be careful in getting out of that tub and off of that floor. When I'm on the floor I actually roll over onto my knees and grab something and kinda push up with the good leg and pull up with my arms.
And why the special soap??? I was never told to wash special?
Well I see that I can't let a day go by without stopping by or I miss so much!!!! See you all later....
Colinsmom - I ran a low grade temp!! Totally forgot until you mentioned it!! I would be fine in the mornings and then around the late afternoon early evening it would go up. Never quite went above 100 if I remember, then as quick as it started it just stopped! I did keep track each day so I could let the Dr. know.
PirouetteGirl - I've been taken off Bextra and the Dr. has prescribed Mobic. I got samples and it's not bad. Actually works a little quicker than the Bextra in my opinion. Bextra would take a few days before I'd feel the results. Mobic seems to work instantly. Even though I had the THR in August of the left hip the right hip is quickly going downhill :eek: so I need "drugs" occasionally. But unfortunately I still have to have this drug "pre authorized" by the Dr. before the insurance co. will pay.
wigs - how about a comode? This was great for the nights and then when I could get around better, I slipped it over the regular toilet. I HATED that raised seat my DH picked up. I told DH the other day to toss that seat and when I have to get the other hip done we'll use the comode. If this was already suggested I appologize. I'm just a little late in reading all these great posts!!
I'm so behind in the post I forgot who asked this but - with regards to flexibility. I was never the flexible type to begin with. Never could sit cross leged on the floor!! :eek: However I can bend and touch my toes, I can put my socks on. I can sit in the tub, get on the floor. But remember....while you can do all of these great things you still have to be careful in getting out of that tub and off of that floor. When I'm on the floor I actually roll over onto my knees and grab something and kinda push up with the good leg and pull up with my arms.
And why the special soap??? I was never told to wash special?
Well I see that I can't let a day go by without stopping by or I miss so much!!!! See you all later....
wigs
04-28-2005, 05:08 PM
Hello!
The special soap is for preparing my skin or something - i expect its got something to do with MRSA as that seems to be all the rage at the mo over here!
Not long for me now - a week tomorrow until my THR - after last night and todays pain i will be glad to be rid of the hip!
Oh - just thought of another question. Does anyone take any supplements or avoid certain foods (only relevant to arthritis people here!!) I was taking devils claw, glucosamine and chrondroitin and avoiding various foods. Anyone else do that?
Ok - best go tidy up now as have the visiting nurse coming to my house tomorrow to check it or check me or something??!!! I'm sure she won't mark me on tidiness but you never know!!
The special soap is for preparing my skin or something - i expect its got something to do with MRSA as that seems to be all the rage at the mo over here!
Not long for me now - a week tomorrow until my THR - after last night and todays pain i will be glad to be rid of the hip!
Oh - just thought of another question. Does anyone take any supplements or avoid certain foods (only relevant to arthritis people here!!) I was taking devils claw, glucosamine and chrondroitin and avoiding various foods. Anyone else do that?
Ok - best go tidy up now as have the visiting nurse coming to my house tomorrow to check it or check me or something??!!! I'm sure she won't mark me on tidiness but you never know!!
silver515
04-28-2005, 08:09 PM
I had been taking glucosamine and chrondroitin and also msm for a long time..dr told me to take Cosamin DS...he said that is a reliable brand so that is what I took...There were no foods that I was told to avoid.
You will be so happy once you have the surgery. It's amazing what it is like to live without that pain...There is surgery pain, but not that terrible arthritic pain. As the weeks and months go by, it just gets better and better. I am almost 4 months since surgery...I went shopping today and did alot of walking with no problems. I didn't have to sit down and rest or anything. THe only thing was I tried on some capris and asked the dressing room person if I could go in the handicapped room with a seat...still hard to try things on standing...so that was the only reminder of the THR today.
GOOD LUCK...and keep those questions coming!
You will be so happy once you have the surgery. It's amazing what it is like to live without that pain...There is surgery pain, but not that terrible arthritic pain. As the weeks and months go by, it just gets better and better. I am almost 4 months since surgery...I went shopping today and did alot of walking with no problems. I didn't have to sit down and rest or anything. THe only thing was I tried on some capris and asked the dressing room person if I could go in the handicapped room with a seat...still hard to try things on standing...so that was the only reminder of the THR today.
GOOD LUCK...and keep those questions coming!
MrsLinda
04-28-2005, 10:06 PM
Evening everyone -
wigs - I'm sorry but what is MRSA? I just began taking glucosamine and chrondroitin recently. My dr. had recommended it a long time ago, but never really listened. :nono: I don't avoid any foods. What do you avoid?
silver - I'm much better now at trying on stuff. I remember having to bring a cane with me not because I couldn't walk. But rather to "grab" the leg of the pants I was trying on! :D Now, it's not a problem anymore.
Well have a good evening everyone....talk to you all soon.
wigs - I'm sorry but what is MRSA? I just began taking glucosamine and chrondroitin recently. My dr. had recommended it a long time ago, but never really listened. :nono: I don't avoid any foods. What do you avoid?
silver - I'm much better now at trying on stuff. I remember having to bring a cane with me not because I couldn't walk. But rather to "grab" the leg of the pants I was trying on! :D Now, it's not a problem anymore.
Well have a good evening everyone....talk to you all soon.
balleteach
04-28-2005, 11:23 PM
Greetings to all of you hippie hipsters out there. It sounds like everyone is doing so well. For all of you who are going in for THR, we will be here for you to help answer any questions. I, also, have been taking glucosamine, chondroitin, and msm for many years. I don't really know if it helps, but it doesn't hurt, so I figured I might as well use it. PirouetteGirl, I know what you mean about adult classes. They are a great bunch to teach, very enthusiastic, but it is tiring. I found I had to do a lot with them too. I actually could demonstrate jumps, just not over and over again. I would do the brises at the barre and then maybe a few in the center. You will find yourself adjusting with your new hip and you won't have that awful, grinding pain. Don't put it off too long. I could have had mine done two years earlier, but was scared about what would happen after. Dancers are so stoic about pain and tend to live with all the aches and pains,. I have a very high pain tolerance and just put up with it until the pain was so bad I had trouble getting in and out of my car. I think you will find that you don't get as tired teaching as long as you pace yourself.
What is everyone doing this summer? Anything as glamorous as a trip to Greece!!! Talk to you all later... balleteach
What is everyone doing this summer? Anything as glamorous as a trip to Greece!!! Talk to you all later... balleteach
Ripanco
04-29-2005, 12:54 PM
Good Morning all you Hipsters,
It is wonderful to come here and read everyone else's experiences and be able to relate to so many things that you all went through or are going through.
I had asked about having my period during surgery...well I am very please to say I think that problem is resolved. When I saw my gyno this week and I explained that I didn't need to have my period stopped for a long period of time, just a few days, she was able to give me a scrip for Provera which will stop a period that has started but just for a short time. Works for me!!! So if my period does start I can use it, if not i won't have to take any unneccasary drugs in my system.
I had my full physical this week also and everything else is just great. Good to go. My GP's office screwed up however and I was not able to donate my blood to bank at that time. So it looks like I will only have one unit of blood banked instead of 2. Did anyone else have to bank blood? My surgeon dosen't feel it is a big requirement, but since I am having both hips done it wouldn't hurt.
Did you guys have 'hip classes' mandated? Ours is next week at the hospital. I will also have blood banked, and a pre-op physical there on the same day. The classes last about 3 hrs, so I am hoping we will be covering most all aspects. I do want to talk to the anethesiologist. I would like to have an epidural instead of general.
Did the hospital provide you with most of your aids, or did you have to buy them? Balleteach, can you squat?? I show dogs and need to be able to do that when setting them up in the ring. One of my close friends who is only 42, and a dog show person is having her right hip done one week after I am. Same surgeon:0. That is one of her most pressing questions...."will I be able to show the dogs??" She has boxers, I have Siberians. So we have to do a fair amount of running too.
The other great news is the fact that my surgeon has not 'outlawed' running!!! He is not thrilled with it, but he knows how much it means to me. For that reason, he is going to use metal/plastic instead of ceramic/ceramic. I have agreed to not run long distances, only on soft surfaces and with the most cushion shoes possible.
It sounds like many of you are athletic both before and after your surgery. That must have made a difference in your recovery. Balleteach, did you have minimal incision? I am not sure they were doing that 10 yrs ago, where they? The fact that they don't need to cut muscle must make recovery a lot faster too. Can you tell I am soooooo ready to end all this pain and get on with my life? I just can't wait to get going again. I am working hard to stay in good shape, but it hurts.
Wigs, what is MRSA? I was given hibiclens to wash the incision sites the night before and the morning of surgery. As far as supplements, I have been taken MSM, G/C and Sam-e for several years. I think they all helped some, but when there is no cartilage left there is not much they can do. But I have other joints, so I will keep taking them. I do not avoid any foods for the arthritis per say, but do avoid all red meats, dairy, all transfats or processed foods. I use a lot of soy and as much organic and whole foods as possible. Who schedules the visiting nurse? I have not been told anything about that yet.
Oh yea, one more question. What time of wound closesur did most of you have? Staples or sutures? And how soon did they come out?
Have a great day everyone.
It is wonderful to come here and read everyone else's experiences and be able to relate to so many things that you all went through or are going through.
I had asked about having my period during surgery...well I am very please to say I think that problem is resolved. When I saw my gyno this week and I explained that I didn't need to have my period stopped for a long period of time, just a few days, she was able to give me a scrip for Provera which will stop a period that has started but just for a short time. Works for me!!! So if my period does start I can use it, if not i won't have to take any unneccasary drugs in my system.
I had my full physical this week also and everything else is just great. Good to go. My GP's office screwed up however and I was not able to donate my blood to bank at that time. So it looks like I will only have one unit of blood banked instead of 2. Did anyone else have to bank blood? My surgeon dosen't feel it is a big requirement, but since I am having both hips done it wouldn't hurt.
Did you guys have 'hip classes' mandated? Ours is next week at the hospital. I will also have blood banked, and a pre-op physical there on the same day. The classes last about 3 hrs, so I am hoping we will be covering most all aspects. I do want to talk to the anethesiologist. I would like to have an epidural instead of general.
Did the hospital provide you with most of your aids, or did you have to buy them? Balleteach, can you squat?? I show dogs and need to be able to do that when setting them up in the ring. One of my close friends who is only 42, and a dog show person is having her right hip done one week after I am. Same surgeon:0. That is one of her most pressing questions...."will I be able to show the dogs??" She has boxers, I have Siberians. So we have to do a fair amount of running too.
The other great news is the fact that my surgeon has not 'outlawed' running!!! He is not thrilled with it, but he knows how much it means to me. For that reason, he is going to use metal/plastic instead of ceramic/ceramic. I have agreed to not run long distances, only on soft surfaces and with the most cushion shoes possible.
It sounds like many of you are athletic both before and after your surgery. That must have made a difference in your recovery. Balleteach, did you have minimal incision? I am not sure they were doing that 10 yrs ago, where they? The fact that they don't need to cut muscle must make recovery a lot faster too. Can you tell I am soooooo ready to end all this pain and get on with my life? I just can't wait to get going again. I am working hard to stay in good shape, but it hurts.
Wigs, what is MRSA? I was given hibiclens to wash the incision sites the night before and the morning of surgery. As far as supplements, I have been taken MSM, G/C and Sam-e for several years. I think they all helped some, but when there is no cartilage left there is not much they can do. But I have other joints, so I will keep taking them. I do not avoid any foods for the arthritis per say, but do avoid all red meats, dairy, all transfats or processed foods. I use a lot of soy and as much organic and whole foods as possible. Who schedules the visiting nurse? I have not been told anything about that yet.
Oh yea, one more question. What time of wound closesur did most of you have? Staples or sutures? And how soon did they come out?
Have a great day everyone.
PirouetteGirl
04-29-2005, 04:19 PM
MRSA is methycillin resistant staph aureus- it's an infection that can be contracted in the hospital and is a real bummer! You don't want it needless to say- it can mess up your recovery big time. it's really hard to control- methycillin is one of the toughest antibiotics around, and it doesn't work to control this infection. Find out what your hospital's procedure is to control postop infection. Very important!
Colinsmom
04-29-2005, 04:28 PM
Ripanco, the hospital sent me an occupational therapist to evaluate the aids I had and others I would need. I did purchase the portable potty for about $46. My insurance wouldn't cover it because I had already bought or borrowed enough other things to get by fairly well.
I had staples. The visiting nurse removed them 11 days after my surgery. She came through an agency approved by my insurance company. They contacted me. She was pretty worthless, frankly, but having had one before I know that's unusual. She was only approved for 2 visits -- one doing the workup and a bandage change (my husband had nearly killed me the night before pulling off the adhesive). The second time she took out the staples. It wasn't pleasant, and she left a tiny one so had to come back! My advice -- feel around before she leaves and verify all is A-OK. :)
Also, you might make sure you have rubbing alcohol for bandage changing. Put some on a cotton ball and have your helper use it as the leading guide before he/she pulls the adhesive away from your skin. It helps tremendously to loosen up the sticky. Of course, avoid the wound as it would most likely sting quite a bit!
I know you and Wigs will do just fine.
I had staples. The visiting nurse removed them 11 days after my surgery. She came through an agency approved by my insurance company. They contacted me. She was pretty worthless, frankly, but having had one before I know that's unusual. She was only approved for 2 visits -- one doing the workup and a bandage change (my husband had nearly killed me the night before pulling off the adhesive). The second time she took out the staples. It wasn't pleasant, and she left a tiny one so had to come back! My advice -- feel around before she leaves and verify all is A-OK. :)
Also, you might make sure you have rubbing alcohol for bandage changing. Put some on a cotton ball and have your helper use it as the leading guide before he/she pulls the adhesive away from your skin. It helps tremendously to loosen up the sticky. Of course, avoid the wound as it would most likely sting quite a bit!
I know you and Wigs will do just fine.
MrsLinda
04-29-2005, 05:22 PM
Afternoon hippies! :)
Ripanco - DH and I did alot of research on what exactly would be needed for my home so we purchased the majority of it oursleves. Plus since I didn't have this great group at the time, I relied on a friend here in my building that had the surgery years ago. Later on we found out the insurance co would have paid for everything. But I had the comode, walker and raised toilet seat all waiting for me. I was sent directly to a rehab facility and while I was there the Occupational Therepist gave me the "hip kit" with all the gadgets I'd need; grabber, dressing stick, elastic laces, sock putter on'er, the longest shoe horn I've ever seen and a leg lifter. Then I received my canes from the Physical Therepist. I know that these weren't free :eek: but apparently our insurance paid for everything. Oh and we rented a hip chair so I had a nice high place to sit with arms. Oh and you'll might need a safety rain in your tub/shower area. My home PT insisted I have one as did the OT in the rehab facility. I'm kinda glad they did. I still use it today when I lower myself into my tub.
I had staples and they came out in the rehab hospital 10 days after the surgery; all 50 something of them!!! The nurse was great. While it wasn't the most pleasant sensation, it wasn't the worse either.
There weren't any hip classes required and as for the blood donation, the Dr. said he didn't think it necessary but it was totally up to me. I declined.
As for the visiting nurse; are you coming directly home or going to a rehab facility? Either way a Social Worker in either of the above should help schedule the Visiting Nurse for you.
Ok....dates I want dates.
Wigs - when is your surgery scheduled?
Ripanco - when is your surgery scheduled?
I just know you two will be fine. Just remember....we're all here for you.
Ripanco - DH and I did alot of research on what exactly would be needed for my home so we purchased the majority of it oursleves. Plus since I didn't have this great group at the time, I relied on a friend here in my building that had the surgery years ago. Later on we found out the insurance co would have paid for everything. But I had the comode, walker and raised toilet seat all waiting for me. I was sent directly to a rehab facility and while I was there the Occupational Therepist gave me the "hip kit" with all the gadgets I'd need; grabber, dressing stick, elastic laces, sock putter on'er, the longest shoe horn I've ever seen and a leg lifter. Then I received my canes from the Physical Therepist. I know that these weren't free :eek: but apparently our insurance paid for everything. Oh and we rented a hip chair so I had a nice high place to sit with arms. Oh and you'll might need a safety rain in your tub/shower area. My home PT insisted I have one as did the OT in the rehab facility. I'm kinda glad they did. I still use it today when I lower myself into my tub.
I had staples and they came out in the rehab hospital 10 days after the surgery; all 50 something of them!!! The nurse was great. While it wasn't the most pleasant sensation, it wasn't the worse either.
There weren't any hip classes required and as for the blood donation, the Dr. said he didn't think it necessary but it was totally up to me. I declined.
As for the visiting nurse; are you coming directly home or going to a rehab facility? Either way a Social Worker in either of the above should help schedule the Visiting Nurse for you.
Ok....dates I want dates.
Wigs - when is your surgery scheduled?
Ripanco - when is your surgery scheduled?
I just know you two will be fine. Just remember....we're all here for you.
legtoolong
04-29-2005, 06:09 PM
Hi Ripanco,
You asked about blood donation--my doc didn't think it was a good idea, he said it leaves you anemic going into the surgery. I didn't do it for my first hip being the obedient type, but I did have to have 2 units after that surgery. For the second hip I decided, after talking to several knowledgeable people, that I would donate. I only did one unit then took iron pills to rebuild. My blood count was very good going into the surgery. The day after surgery when I tried to get out of bed, I was very light headed and weak. When the doc came in he knew I had been light headed and said he would order some blood for me if I didn't feel better the next day. I reminded him that I had banked a unit of my own blood and why couldn't I get that right away. He agreed and the next day I was feeling much better. For me, banking the blood seemed the better option. For the second hip I was in the hospital only 3 days where the first it was 5 days since I didn't get the blood until the third day.
My health plan didn't pay for any of my home care aids. Check before you buy.
Hope all goes well for you.
You asked about blood donation--my doc didn't think it was a good idea, he said it leaves you anemic going into the surgery. I didn't do it for my first hip being the obedient type, but I did have to have 2 units after that surgery. For the second hip I decided, after talking to several knowledgeable people, that I would donate. I only did one unit then took iron pills to rebuild. My blood count was very good going into the surgery. The day after surgery when I tried to get out of bed, I was very light headed and weak. When the doc came in he knew I had been light headed and said he would order some blood for me if I didn't feel better the next day. I reminded him that I had banked a unit of my own blood and why couldn't I get that right away. He agreed and the next day I was feeling much better. For me, banking the blood seemed the better option. For the second hip I was in the hospital only 3 days where the first it was 5 days since I didn't get the blood until the third day.
My health plan didn't pay for any of my home care aids. Check before you buy.
Hope all goes well for you.
hip2it
04-29-2005, 06:33 PM
Wow! These posts are getting so long... if you miss a day or two it takes a while to get caught up. Here are comments about various subjects. I can't keep track of who asked, so I'll just start blabbing...
I took Glucosamine Chondroitin, 200 I.U. of vitamin E and 500 mg of vitamin C... I read an arthritis book that these are good for arthritis sufferers. I still take the vitamins now but not the glucosamine (the rest of my body is not bad with arthritis, aparently only the one hip so far).
I didn't donate blood... didn't really think about it or I probably would have. Also, it was quick between when he mentioned the surgery and when I had it.
My insurance covered the toilet seat, walker, crutches, sock put-on thing, grabber. I bought my cane myself. They did tell me to not get rid of these items since the next time the insurance would know you have them and not get them for me again...
I had staples. The doctor said that the deep incisions are done with dissolvable stitches and the upper ones with staples. There was no pain at all for the bandages or anything. The wound never really did bleed at all (maybe the first day or two a real little bit). The staples came out in the Dr. office after about 10 days. It felt good to get them out... they were just a little uncomfortable.
I'm so much better in my flexibility now, pirohettegirl... I used to not be able to lift my leg parallel to the floor to do a side kick (TaeKwonDo) but now I am more flexible in my THR hip than in my normal one!!! The flexibility is incredibly different. I really thought I would lose some of the flexibility I had before I got arthritis but I didn't at all... I was thrilled.
Well, gotta go teach some karate tonight... :bouncing:
I took Glucosamine Chondroitin, 200 I.U. of vitamin E and 500 mg of vitamin C... I read an arthritis book that these are good for arthritis sufferers. I still take the vitamins now but not the glucosamine (the rest of my body is not bad with arthritis, aparently only the one hip so far).
I didn't donate blood... didn't really think about it or I probably would have. Also, it was quick between when he mentioned the surgery and when I had it.
My insurance covered the toilet seat, walker, crutches, sock put-on thing, grabber. I bought my cane myself. They did tell me to not get rid of these items since the next time the insurance would know you have them and not get them for me again...
I had staples. The doctor said that the deep incisions are done with dissolvable stitches and the upper ones with staples. There was no pain at all for the bandages or anything. The wound never really did bleed at all (maybe the first day or two a real little bit). The staples came out in the Dr. office after about 10 days. It felt good to get them out... they were just a little uncomfortable.
I'm so much better in my flexibility now, pirohettegirl... I used to not be able to lift my leg parallel to the floor to do a side kick (TaeKwonDo) but now I am more flexible in my THR hip than in my normal one!!! The flexibility is incredibly different. I really thought I would lose some of the flexibility I had before I got arthritis but I didn't at all... I was thrilled.
Well, gotta go teach some karate tonight... :bouncing:
silver515
04-29-2005, 11:21 PM
HI hippie friends..wow..this thread is just amazing! I played golf today for the first time since the THR....I was a little nervous, but the dr said it was ok. I really enjoyed playing, although I am not very good. My husband took care of the tee and the ball and most of the bending. I do some bending, but that would have been way too much.
It was suggested that I donate my own blood, but I decided not to and take my chances. Well, when I was at the rehab place (about a week after surgery) they came and told me I had to go back to the hospital for a blood transfusion...my count was 6.2 , which they said was dangerously low. The trip to the hospital was a nightmare...I was there from about 2:30 pm and didn't get back to rehab til about 2:30 am. I was in the hallway of the er most of that time, it was horrible. After this though, I did feel much better and had more energy.
I was given the hip aids and also the elastic shoelaces when I was in the hospital. At rehab they ordered the commode (insurance paid) and also the shower chair, which I had to pay for. They also paid for a walker...I borrowed a cane from someone else.
My dr uses glue, no stiches or staples. When I was at rehab everyone was surprised to see the glue.....all the dr and nurses came in to look at me. Every time someone new came to check on me, they commented on the glue. Technically I could have taken a shower immediately, of course I couldn't walk to do it, but I could have...
I also went to a total joint replacement class in the hospital a week before the surgery. It was about 3 hours...right after that I had my bloodwork done. I also had a physical that week.
Ok...enough rambling for now....have fun hippies !!!
It was suggested that I donate my own blood, but I decided not to and take my chances. Well, when I was at the rehab place (about a week after surgery) they came and told me I had to go back to the hospital for a blood transfusion...my count was 6.2 , which they said was dangerously low. The trip to the hospital was a nightmare...I was there from about 2:30 pm and didn't get back to rehab til about 2:30 am. I was in the hallway of the er most of that time, it was horrible. After this though, I did feel much better and had more energy.
I was given the hip aids and also the elastic shoelaces when I was in the hospital. At rehab they ordered the commode (insurance paid) and also the shower chair, which I had to pay for. They also paid for a walker...I borrowed a cane from someone else.
My dr uses glue, no stiches or staples. When I was at rehab everyone was surprised to see the glue.....all the dr and nurses came in to look at me. Every time someone new came to check on me, they commented on the glue. Technically I could have taken a shower immediately, of course I couldn't walk to do it, but I could have...
I also went to a total joint replacement class in the hospital a week before the surgery. It was about 3 hours...right after that I had my bloodwork done. I also had a physical that week.
Ok...enough rambling for now....have fun hippies !!!
balleteach
04-30-2005, 12:37 AM
Greetings to all the hippie hipsters out there. I just love this thread. All of you post-THR girlie girls sound positively giddy with the progress you are making!! I know it's great to resume your normal activities and feel like yourselves again. Time and patience is the key even though it is difficult to wait. At least we had a fixable condition. When I was recuperating and became impatient, I would remind myself that my condition was temporary and I would be able to continue with my life after recovery. Keeping things in perspective always helped me. Ripanco, I don't think you will be able to fully squat down after the THR. I might be mistaken., but the angle of that position seems like it would put too much pressure on the new hip. I think you will really be amazed at how you will be able to adapt your movements to accommodate your new hip. I was able to do this when I went back to teaching ballet. I know you can kneel as long as you are careful about sitting back on your heels. After the first year, the new hip is more stable and less likely to pop out. That is supposed to be agonizing and requires an immediate trip to the hospital. You will adapt as time goes by and be able to resume your activities. My scar is about six inches long and, after 10yrs, barely visible.
My husband and I must be in the grip of a senior moment because neither one of us remembers if I had stitches and staples or just stitches or staples. All I know is I didn't have glue!! That, I would have remembered for sure. Good night all from finally sunny Calif....balleteach
My husband and I must be in the grip of a senior moment because neither one of us remembers if I had stitches and staples or just stitches or staples. All I know is I didn't have glue!! That, I would have remembered for sure. Good night all from finally sunny Calif....balleteach
wigs
04-30-2005, 06:54 AM
Hi again -
Will keep it quick as am just off to town to buy a sock - putter-onner and some new pyjamas for hospital! Then am off to London to meet some friends. Very exciting! Anyway...
I go in on Thursday and have it done on Friday the 6th May. Its bank holiday weekend here this weekend so i have time to get stuff ready and sort myself out. I live in the UK so it may not be the same for you guys!
As for foods i've been told to avoid its basically any from the nightshade family which includes tomatoes, peppers, aubergines. Oh also strawberries and all citrus fruit. This is meant to help anyone with arthritis. Also cider vinegar and honey is meant to be good.
Ripanco - when is your op? I'll be glad of mine now as i wnt to get rid of this hip! I'm back at work now after two weeks half term holiday and am in such pain again.
Speak later!
Will keep it quick as am just off to town to buy a sock - putter-onner and some new pyjamas for hospital! Then am off to London to meet some friends. Very exciting! Anyway...
I go in on Thursday and have it done on Friday the 6th May. Its bank holiday weekend here this weekend so i have time to get stuff ready and sort myself out. I live in the UK so it may not be the same for you guys!
As for foods i've been told to avoid its basically any from the nightshade family which includes tomatoes, peppers, aubergines. Oh also strawberries and all citrus fruit. This is meant to help anyone with arthritis. Also cider vinegar and honey is meant to be good.
Ripanco - when is your op? I'll be glad of mine now as i wnt to get rid of this hip! I'm back at work now after two weeks half term holiday and am in such pain again.
Speak later!
wigs
04-30-2005, 06:55 AM
Just re-read my message and i sound miserable at the end. I'm not though! Sorry - like to keep these messages cheerful!!! :)
Colinsmom
04-30-2005, 09:44 AM
Silver515, your glue made me curious so I searched "Surgical Glue." This is a very shortened version of an interesting article:
'Super Glue' derivatives show promise
Other products, including a "Super Glue" derivative, are still awaiting FDA approval and promise to be heavier-duty alternatives to stitches or staples, which often leave scars, in everything from emergency-room wounds to cosmetic surgery.
Surgical glues are sold in other countries, and U.S. doctors often bring some back from trips abroad or mix some up in private labs. That's legal as long as they use it on their own patients.
But many doctors have awaited an FDA-approved version because the government oversight helps ensure each batch is safe and of the same quality.
'Super Glue' derivatives show promise
Other products, including a "Super Glue" derivative, are still awaiting FDA approval and promise to be heavier-duty alternatives to stitches or staples, which often leave scars, in everything from emergency-room wounds to cosmetic surgery.
Surgical glues are sold in other countries, and U.S. doctors often bring some back from trips abroad or mix some up in private labs. That's legal as long as they use it on their own patients.
But many doctors have awaited an FDA-approved version because the government oversight helps ensure each batch is safe and of the same quality.
Nancy E
04-30-2005, 11:08 AM
Hello, I'm new to this and I'm not sure this is correct but I have a question about my hip replacement. I had a hip replacement on 12/21/04 and I have been released since 2/16/05 from Dr's care. My only big fear is the 90 degree angle. Do you always have to worry about this or can you bend more then 90 degrees. I have been doing it but it is always in the back of my mind. Thank you.
MrsLinda
04-30-2005, 03:27 PM
Afternoon Hippie Friends and Welcome Nancy!
Nancy - I think we always have to remember NOT to bend more than 90 degrees and if I'm wrong someone here will correct me.
Wigs - I thought you were in the UK. Some of your phrases gave you away! :) On another board I frequent I have a friend in the UK and you can almost "hear" her accent when she types! You mentioned not eating citrus fruits. I thought vitamine C was suppose to be good for us with arthritis. I'll have to do some research now. I'll keep you in my thoughts Friday. Oh and you may want to take a nightgown to the hospital instead of pj's. Easier to get in and out of. Oh and your message didn't sound miserable at all. :)
balleteach - you made me laugh with "your senior moment". I have lots of those lately and I'm not quite 55 yet! ;)
silver - now I've never heard of the glu proceedure. I'll definately have to check on that. Where did you do your rehab. I did mine at The Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains. Wonderful place.....I can't say enough about it.
My right hip is giving me a fit. It seems that overnight it's suddenly gotten worse. Probably from all the stress it's been taking after the replacement of the left one. But I'm not near ready to do this again. I was hoping for at least a couple of years before having the other done. Oh well.....we'll see.
Well my son and I have the entire house to ourselves tonight. My husband took his dad who's visiting us to Pennsylvania today to see the rest of his sons. Since the weather is so crummy here today I told him to stay overnight at our house there. Sooooo I get the entire Kingsize bed tonight to my self!!!!!! :D :D
Have a great weekend everyone and keep the questions coming!!!!
Nancy - I think we always have to remember NOT to bend more than 90 degrees and if I'm wrong someone here will correct me.
Wigs - I thought you were in the UK. Some of your phrases gave you away! :) On another board I frequent I have a friend in the UK and you can almost "hear" her accent when she types! You mentioned not eating citrus fruits. I thought vitamine C was suppose to be good for us with arthritis. I'll have to do some research now. I'll keep you in my thoughts Friday. Oh and you may want to take a nightgown to the hospital instead of pj's. Easier to get in and out of. Oh and your message didn't sound miserable at all. :)
balleteach - you made me laugh with "your senior moment". I have lots of those lately and I'm not quite 55 yet! ;)
silver - now I've never heard of the glu proceedure. I'll definately have to check on that. Where did you do your rehab. I did mine at The Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains. Wonderful place.....I can't say enough about it.
My right hip is giving me a fit. It seems that overnight it's suddenly gotten worse. Probably from all the stress it's been taking after the replacement of the left one. But I'm not near ready to do this again. I was hoping for at least a couple of years before having the other done. Oh well.....we'll see.
Well my son and I have the entire house to ourselves tonight. My husband took his dad who's visiting us to Pennsylvania today to see the rest of his sons. Since the weather is so crummy here today I told him to stay overnight at our house there. Sooooo I get the entire Kingsize bed tonight to my self!!!!!! :D :D
Have a great weekend everyone and keep the questions coming!!!!
Ripanco
05-02-2005, 10:21 AM
Good morning my new found hipster friends!
Wigs, I will be thinking of you this week and wishing you the very best of luck. I am a little envious that you are getting this overwith sooner than me, but I will be not far behind you. My surgery is May 23rd, 3 weeks and counting! You will have to get on your computer asap to let us know how you are doing!!
Balleteach, I think I have actually made many of the adaptions you speak of already, to avoid the pain in my hips now! So after should be a piece of cake.
Hi Nancy, I am new here too and full of questions!! This is the most helpful place I have found online.
Silver, I will ask about the glue, seems like the way to go. We have been using glue in animal surgeries for years so off course I should have figured out it could be for people too!! duh!
Linda, I am sorry to hear you had so much pain from the cut muscles and tendons!!! It makes sense that would be really bad. Makes me glad I am able to have the minimal invasive method...no muscles or tendons cut, just pushed aside. That will make them sore enough!
Now I have another guestion! I think we are mostly ladies here, right?? My questions is about sex! Hope I don't offend anyone. I know you are suppose to not have 'sex' for 3 weeks. But what you are suppose to do and actually can do often are different. And there is a difference between 'sex' and 'intercourse'. Dear sweet hubby and I are very active in that department and while I realize it won't be high on my agenda for the first week maybe, I sure can't imagine nothing for 3 weeks!!! So any insight, girls??
I am wondering if anyone here had their surgery at Dartmouth in NH?? We live in Vermont, much closer to Burlington, but are way more willing to travel 1 1/2 hrs to go to Dartmouth, it is that much better than the Burlington or Montpelier hospitals. I can't tell you how much hubby and I like and trust my surgeon. Thank goodness!
Best of luck, Wigs!!
Wigs, I will be thinking of you this week and wishing you the very best of luck. I am a little envious that you are getting this overwith sooner than me, but I will be not far behind you. My surgery is May 23rd, 3 weeks and counting! You will have to get on your computer asap to let us know how you are doing!!
Balleteach, I think I have actually made many of the adaptions you speak of already, to avoid the pain in my hips now! So after should be a piece of cake.
Hi Nancy, I am new here too and full of questions!! This is the most helpful place I have found online.
Silver, I will ask about the glue, seems like the way to go. We have been using glue in animal surgeries for years so off course I should have figured out it could be for people too!! duh!
Linda, I am sorry to hear you had so much pain from the cut muscles and tendons!!! It makes sense that would be really bad. Makes me glad I am able to have the minimal invasive method...no muscles or tendons cut, just pushed aside. That will make them sore enough!
Now I have another guestion! I think we are mostly ladies here, right?? My questions is about sex! Hope I don't offend anyone. I know you are suppose to not have 'sex' for 3 weeks. But what you are suppose to do and actually can do often are different. And there is a difference between 'sex' and 'intercourse'. Dear sweet hubby and I are very active in that department and while I realize it won't be high on my agenda for the first week maybe, I sure can't imagine nothing for 3 weeks!!! So any insight, girls??
I am wondering if anyone here had their surgery at Dartmouth in NH?? We live in Vermont, much closer to Burlington, but are way more willing to travel 1 1/2 hrs to go to Dartmouth, it is that much better than the Burlington or Montpelier hospitals. I can't tell you how much hubby and I like and trust my surgeon. Thank goodness!
Best of luck, Wigs!!
MrsLinda
05-02-2005, 01:42 PM
Morning everyone!
Ripanco - you're too cute! We couldn't have sex for 8 weeks!!! :eek: Actually all of my restrictions were for 8 weeks; sleeping on back with pillow between legs, driving, bending and sitting properly, and sex!!!
Personally I think "intercourse" is what they mean. And again, I hope we don't offend anyone but it's a legitimate question. You always have to now watch how you position your legs. Actually I was told at the end of the restriction "missionary" position only.
Wigs we'll ALL be thinking of you Friday and sending good vibes across that "big pond" to you in the UK.
Ribanco you have your surgery the day I'm suppose to go back to work!!! I'll make sure amid all the confussion and stress to take a minute and think of you too!!! :D
Well hippie friends I'll check back with you all later!
Ripanco - you're too cute! We couldn't have sex for 8 weeks!!! :eek: Actually all of my restrictions were for 8 weeks; sleeping on back with pillow between legs, driving, bending and sitting properly, and sex!!!
Personally I think "intercourse" is what they mean. And again, I hope we don't offend anyone but it's a legitimate question. You always have to now watch how you position your legs. Actually I was told at the end of the restriction "missionary" position only.
Wigs we'll ALL be thinking of you Friday and sending good vibes across that "big pond" to you in the UK.
Ribanco you have your surgery the day I'm suppose to go back to work!!! I'll make sure amid all the confussion and stress to take a minute and think of you too!!! :D
Well hippie friends I'll check back with you all later!
silver515
05-02-2005, 08:30 PM
HI all!!! I was really happy with the glue, and I know my dr has been using this for awhile. But I have to say you have gotten me kind of nervous about it, and I'm glad I'm done with it and it was fine. Hearing that it could be from another country or only used on animals....that is all too weird for me.
GOod luck Ribanco and WIgs...I'm sure everything will be fine! Just keep asking those questions. We are all here to help.
Mrs. LINDA...I went to rehab at Prospect Heights in Hackensack, NJ. I was very happy with it. I felt very pampered and the pt and ot was great. I originally was thinking of going home, but I to say I was happy that I changed my mind and went there.
Balleteach....I always know what you are talking about since my both daughters are dancers. IN fact my older daughter just tore her ACL and will be having surgery soon and will have to see what her limitations will be. SHe now teaches acro, modern, and jazz...ballet was never her favorite. (SORRY)..HAHA...
GOod luck Ribanco and WIgs...I'm sure everything will be fine! Just keep asking those questions. We are all here to help.
Mrs. LINDA...I went to rehab at Prospect Heights in Hackensack, NJ. I was very happy with it. I felt very pampered and the pt and ot was great. I originally was thinking of going home, but I to say I was happy that I changed my mind and went there.
Balleteach....I always know what you are talking about since my both daughters are dancers. IN fact my older daughter just tore her ACL and will be having surgery soon and will have to see what her limitations will be. SHe now teaches acro, modern, and jazz...ballet was never her favorite. (SORRY)..HAHA...
balleteach
05-02-2005, 10:40 PM
Greetings, I really look forward to reading the posts and responding. We are such a great group of hippies. Wigs, good luck to you. It will be a relief to have the surgery over with and begin your recuperation. Ripanco, your question about sex made me laugh also. Sex was the last thing on my mind after surgery and I don't remember what the Dr said. I'm thinking that it was around a month for us. We had been married 27yrs by then so it wasn't a big deal. Besides, there are other creative ways to scratch that itch, if you know what I mean!!
silver515, I found in my many years of teaching ballet that most girls do go on to do other things, especially as they reach their teens. There are so many activities available nowadays, that the limited field of ballet takes a certain type of personality. I would just encourage the girls to stay involved with the arts. That's about it for now... Talk to you all later, balleteach
silver515, I found in my many years of teaching ballet that most girls do go on to do other things, especially as they reach their teens. There are so many activities available nowadays, that the limited field of ballet takes a certain type of personality. I would just encourage the girls to stay involved with the arts. That's about it for now... Talk to you all later, balleteach
wigs
05-03-2005, 06:04 PM
Last day at work tomorro! Yeah!!!! Can anyone think of anything else i may need to get ready before the op? Have got pik up stick and sock thing. Am at the point of just wanting to get it done now!!!
Hope you are all doing well.
:wave:
Hope you are all doing well.
:wave:
silver515
05-03-2005, 08:11 PM
Good luck Wigs! Just keep remembering that it will get better and better....
Balleteach...just wanted you to know that my dance teacher daughter is almost 28 and this is what she does. SHe tore her ACL performing at a Nets basketball game. SHe might have to rethink everything she does, since all her jobs are so physical.
Balleteach...just wanted you to know that my dance teacher daughter is almost 28 and this is what she does. SHe tore her ACL performing at a Nets basketball game. SHe might have to rethink everything she does, since all her jobs are so physical.
hip2it
05-03-2005, 09:57 PM
Best of luck Wigs... I know we will all be thinking of you and back on our first days. The first two are the worst. It didn't seem that bad when I was there but now that I think about it, it was quite sore and it was hard to get the leg up and into bed. When I got home I didn't want the cat to jump on the bed (much less the husband get frisky)... it was about a month for sex for us and we do just what we did before (it was limited then because of my hip too). Only now, it doesn't hurt. My doctor actually brought this up with me and said that I could probably do a lot more that I was used to and to just watch the positions where the hips could get closer than that darn 90 degrees...
Well, I hate to always sound so upbeat... I've had a rough week here. You see, I have been working on braiding a rug for the past 10 years. When I was laid up I put together the rest of the braiding and then basted it together on a table top (since I couldn't get down to the floor). Unfortunately I did the basting too tight and when I unfolded it onto the floor it was bowl shaped. So, I took the basting out and was waiting until I could get down on the floor again. Last weekend was the time. I sat on a pillow on the floor (sometimes indian style and sometimes with legs out wide) and basted away. It felt fine, so I did it again on Sunday. Again it was great. I was totally psyched! :D
Then on Monday it started hurting and today (Tuesday) it is really bad again (limping and I can't hold my weight going upstairs anymore)...
I have a feeling that I will never be able to do this action again... why the pain? I thought that the 90 degree rule was for dislocation (not for pain management). Am I crazy? Is this a 'never again' thing or just not until after a year or so? It has been just 5 months since the surgery for me.
So sorry Wigs and Ripanco, I don't mean to discourage you, it's just that I thought it would be better than this. I think this is one of those patience things... (even still, it's better than the pain I had before, but I'm hoping that this pain does go away eventually) I guess since the surgery was so recommended and commonplace I also thought there was no appreciable rehab and that just ain't so...
Anyway, I will stay the course.
Well, I hate to always sound so upbeat... I've had a rough week here. You see, I have been working on braiding a rug for the past 10 years. When I was laid up I put together the rest of the braiding and then basted it together on a table top (since I couldn't get down to the floor). Unfortunately I did the basting too tight and when I unfolded it onto the floor it was bowl shaped. So, I took the basting out and was waiting until I could get down on the floor again. Last weekend was the time. I sat on a pillow on the floor (sometimes indian style and sometimes with legs out wide) and basted away. It felt fine, so I did it again on Sunday. Again it was great. I was totally psyched! :D
Then on Monday it started hurting and today (Tuesday) it is really bad again (limping and I can't hold my weight going upstairs anymore)...
I have a feeling that I will never be able to do this action again... why the pain? I thought that the 90 degree rule was for dislocation (not for pain management). Am I crazy? Is this a 'never again' thing or just not until after a year or so? It has been just 5 months since the surgery for me.
So sorry Wigs and Ripanco, I don't mean to discourage you, it's just that I thought it would be better than this. I think this is one of those patience things... (even still, it's better than the pain I had before, but I'm hoping that this pain does go away eventually) I guess since the surgery was so recommended and commonplace I also thought there was no appreciable rehab and that just ain't so...
Anyway, I will stay the course.
balleteach
05-03-2005, 10:58 PM
Greetings hippie hipsters. Just a short post tonight, especially for hip2it. How long did you sit on the floor? Also for both days might have been too long in one position. Five months isn't that long even though you can do so much more as time goes by. I still get stiff if I'm in one position too long, especially sitting. Try to hang in there. Silver515, sorry to hear about your daughter. Injury to the achilles can be a career-ending occurrence. She should still be able to teach, but I guess it depends on the severity of the injury whether she could go back to full out dancing. There is so much competion in all fields of dance and always someone more then ready to take your place. I wish her luck and hope you will keep us updated on her progress. Speaking of dance, PirouetteGirl where are you? Talk to you all later...balleteach