Connect
← Return to If you're living without a hip like me, please reach out to me.....
Discussion
If you're living without a hip like me, please reach out to me.....
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: Oct 25, 2023 | Replies (143)Comment receiving replies
Yes have had many similar complications; including 3 separate incidents of infection - all were caused by different bacteria. There is not enough one stock on the left side so they did not put an implant there- this will be permanent- I’m actually getting by pretty well. About a 3 inch leg length difference so inside I wear 1 raised shoe and nothing on the other foot - balances pretty good but looks goofy! Lol. Only use wheelchair for longer distances otherwise use a walker. We have a tub chair but I no longer need the tub transfer. I can do a few stairs if there is a railing. Have adapted well and have no issues with this compared to having infection. I developed a sinus tract atone point and had a weeping wound for a year - home care was here daily to change dressings. Then once the implant was out and infection cleared up no more drainage. Have pain at night so take t3’s or long acting dilaudid. I call myself a one hip wonder!!!! Lol
Replies to "Yes have had many similar complications; including 3 separate incidents of infection - all were caused..."
My biggest concern is the leakage. This has been going on since September 2018 and they don’t know how to stop it. By the looks of other people’s posts, I might have to have the hip prosthetic out completely, another full round of antibiotics, then I might have a chance to start getting better. Of course this means I will be without my right hip for ever.
Has everyone been tested for metal allergies? I’m waiting for this to happen so I can rule it out. I’ve been to an Internist/Allergist who is checking me for special bloodwork, a Rheumatologist who has decided my arthritis has nothing to do with my situation, and I’m waiting for a report from the hospital where my original hip replacements were done to see the manufacturer and components of each prosthetic. I have not had a problem with my left hip!
Did anyone have an option to go on long term antibiotics? I’m just trying to gather information to make an informed decision.
Connect
Where I live there's a campaign to not order anything from the opioid list of drugs so there are only pain managed by Tylenol or Advil. Physical Therapy is ordered a lot for pain management. I manage pain as best as I can. I have mixed types of days.
I'm happy you have found your "one hip wonder" phase. I've found different adaptations for daily.. functions. Although I am exhausted most of the time. I'm sixty seven years young. I'm happy to wake up everyday. I guess all one can do is find their way through all the surgeries, wound care, and navigate the medical world especially when doctors at a prestigious organization as Mayo says this is all that can be done.
Thank you for your response. Take care.