Hip replacement recovery

@twin52 Two things come to mind when you describe your situation. First, perhaps you need a new evaluation from the PT. It sounds like your gait might be impaired from adapting for so long to the bad hip before surgery, and you need help walking correctly (this happened to me.) Also, I do hip and back stretching in bed before getting up each morning.

Second, you may need new shoes! After surgery, your body has changed, and wearing shoes with the old "wear pattern" might be having you a little off filter.
Finally, pox on those who criticize you for using a cane if it makes you feel better. My friend still uses hers on uneven ground after more than 2 years. Just be sure it is the correct length-too short ot too tall can make your hip and back feel worse.

Hi twin52,

Sue made some excellent recommendations, and as a fellow hip-replacement patient (and both knees and left shoulder), her advice is solid.

There is nothing wrong with using a cane! Shame on the people who are suggesting otherwise.

One question. You wrote - "Surgery was completed down the thigh." I'm not sure what that means. Are you referring to the incision, or something else?

All the best to you!

Joe

@heyjoe415 after reviewing everyone’s statements, I agree ! My wife had a total of (6) implant surgeries! First, remember, nerve distortion is possible that can impact one’s body movement. Secondly, having had 6 surgeries, receiving at least 6 epidural injections she is now told that she has degenerated disc disease. Her hips do not bother her. Yet, as she walks she has a really bad gait and because of this the more she walks the worse the gait. She is now told that she should have back surgery to fuse areas in hope to help with the back pain. Again, Nerve distortion also plays its part and despite the distortion it can intensify nerve sensation elsewhere causing things like pain in an area where you never had it before! Third, leg length can be a major impact, even the smallest difference can and will have a big future impact on your life; from the hip implant to back discomfort. One needs to be a “Strong Self Advocate”, if you sense something wrong seek assistance until you feel your issue has been addressed

Hi! My right hip surgery was in mid-September, and I am still in PT, also. I am a strong proponent of OrthoShoes slip-ins, because they are amazingly well constructed and sturdy, and because the slip-in line really works-no bending to put them on. They are not inexpensive, and you order them by mail. But there is a long, easy return with no postage guarantee, and you can keep trying until you find the right fit. I absolutely know that they help my gait, and they don't need breaking in. Maybe not as stylish as Cinderella's slippers, but I feel very lucky to have found the brand, since I have had foot trouble my whole life.
My PT has told me that it takes 9-12 months for a new hip to feel natural in your body--maybe a bit longer. I still have tenderness up my right thigh, use a walker in the house when I am very tired, and a cane when I am out if I need one. Rejoice in just being able to walk!!! Bette

@twin52 Two things come to mind when you describe your situation. First, perhaps you need a new evaluation from the PT. It sounds like your gait might be impaired from adapting for so long to the bad hip before surgery, and you need help walking correctly (this happened to me.) Also, I do hip and back stretching in bed before getting up each morning.

Second, you may need new shoes! After surgery, your body has changed, and wearing shoes with the old "wear pattern" might be having you a little off filter.
Finally, pox on those who criticize you for using a cane if it makes you feel better. My friend still uses hers on uneven ground after more than 2 years. Just be sure it is the correct length-too short ot too tall can make your hip and back feel worse.

Thanks for the insights here Sue. I had my right hip replaced last year and did my PT at home. But we all recover differently.

The idea of changing shoes is excellent. I know I limped for a long time before surgery due to pain in my groin. This may help twin52.

And shame on anyone who criticizes a person for using a crutch. I trust twin52 to know what is good for him/her.

Anyway, I do think twin52 would benefit from an assessment by a new PT. Great advice.

Joe

Joe

@heyjoe415 after reviewing everyone’s statements, I agree ! My wife had a total of (6) implant surgeries! First, remember, nerve distortion is possible that can impact one’s body movement. Secondly, having had 6 surgeries, receiving at least 6 epidural injections she is now told that she has degenerated disc disease. Her hips do not bother her. Yet, as she walks she has a really bad gait and because of this the more she walks the worse the gait. She is now told that she should have back surgery to fuse areas in hope to help with the back pain. Again, Nerve distortion also plays its part and despite the distortion it can intensify nerve sensation elsewhere causing things like pain in an area where you never had it before! Third, leg length can be a major impact, even the smallest difference can and will have a big future impact on your life; from the hip implant to back discomfort. One needs to be a “Strong Self Advocate”, if you sense something wrong seek assistance until you feel your issue has been addressed