Girdlestone hip procedure

I’ve never heard of that, but my pain started in my hip. I thought it was that but evidently it was sciatica between the L4 and L5, but it gives me excruciating pain from my hip all the way down my one of my legs. I wish the best for you, darling. My husband had a hip replacement and he’s never been the same so God bless you.

Hello Cynwyn.....I'm 72 and had Girdlestone Procedure done 3 years ago. I live a pretty active life and get around with a walker, crutches, or holding onto counters. I can climb stairs with a crutch and handrail and I can drive. I even tow our pontoon boat when we go camping. There is a Facebook group started earlier this spring called "Girdlestone Procedure Outcomes" that is extremely helpful. There are about 50 people in the group from all over the world and we offer each other support, and first hand experiences living with a Girdlestone. Please join the group and read all the stories and comments and you will learn a lot about the procedure. We are not all at the same level of mobility, but we're trying to life our lives to the fullest. I wish you all the best......Cindy

Hi Cindy,
I had my Girdlestone done in 2018 after infection. I was not offered a spacer. First let me tell you there is life after Girdkestine. It is different however but is manageable. As for pain, I had initial discomfort but with continued PT it got much better. I took only extra strength Tylenol.
You will have length deficit due to not having hip bone on that side. The deficit differs from person to person. Mine is 3 5/8 inches. You should check to see if your insurance covers the cost of a shoe lift as they can be pricey. I send my shoes to a place in CO and they are extremely reasonable n do an excellent job.
Now, as far as walking, you'll need so assistance on going whether it be a cane, rollator, or upright walker. Again it depends on your ability of walking n what is secure n comfortable for you. Everyone is different. I use an upright walker purchased from where else - Amazon.
Next is tackling stairs. This I think is where most people have difficulty. Practice practice practice n build leg strength.
Showering is another issue. You'll need a either a bench or chair depending on your bathroom set-up. I use a Moen bench which makes the transfer from tub, dressing, to standing easier. Your PT N OT(occupational therapidt) will help you with this.
Now driving, if your Girdkestone is on right side you will need to adapt your vehicle with hand controls. Yes Cindy you can drive 🙂. I adapted my car with hand controls in accordance with my state's laws. I also had to take special driving lessons n road test to be issued a special license. Now prices will differ on all this from state to state. Mine here in New England ran about $6000 total in 2018.
It's extremely you maintain a sense of independence. There is nothing wrong with doing things differently n at a slower pace. Most of all, try to keep a sense of humor. Don't take yourself so seriously. Laughter as they say is the best medicine.
Any other questions or concerns don't hesitate to ask.
It may seem overwhelming but you'll make it. TRUST US HERE. Best wishes with your decision.
Peter

Thank you so much, Peter, for such valuable information and for responding to me.
I wish you well in your journey and hope I can stay as positive as you are!

Thank you so much for such great information! I will definitely look for the group you mentioned.
Good luck to you & God bless! You have given me some hope & I thank you!

I am a Girdlestone Survivor - 2 1/2 years. Getting around with a walker and a wheelchair, and use a cane for stairs. My right leg is only 1 1/2" shorter than my left leg. No pain! I have a great physical therapist who was familiar with Girdlestone while my GP and cardiologist had never heard of it!!
All this was necessary due to an initial misdiagnosis from the first hospital I went to and could have been prevented. I had SEPSIS which spread from my mouth down to my hip. I'm just thankful to be mobile and alive at 81!!

You are very fortunate!
Stay well and thank you for sharing your experience.

Hi, my name is Janeen, I'm 60, and have had RA all of my life. My 1st hip replacement was at age 21. After being very lucky for almost 40 years more and many more joint replacement, joint infection finally treated its deadly head. Because infection threatened my life, I had a Girdlestone 2 years ago. You used the words 'choice' and 'choose', which is usually a nice situation to be in, but the Girdlestone, that is a last resort procedure. It is a very difficult surgery to come back from, and is done when there really is no other choice. Yes, there is life after a Girdlestone, but it can be a very difficult life. I hope you can avoid this procedure as long as you possibly can, and when you ultimately do have it, we'll be here to support you all the way.

Thanks so much for your comments. I appreciate your honesty and wish you well!