In the club!

[hipnhop]

When I took my first step the day after the operation it felt like being hit by the "D" Train (Bronx baby). The pain was from my hip area. I was in such a sweat, loss all color in my face - the PT and nurse grabbed me and fanned me with sheets until i got some color back.

They just unhooked me from the spinal tap pain meds so it was probably my body saying "Oh snap - what did you just do to me?"  I never want to go there again.  I am going to tell them to keep the pain meds coming for my second HR, at least till day two.

Anyway, I am 12 days post op and walking with a cane (don't really need it), the pain is now a 3/4 and bearable. Taking OTC Ibuprofen to help with swelling. Need to ice more but I just hate doing all this stuff. I think my biggest challenge is depression. I have been unable to walk for six months and I just want to take my dog for a WALK!!!!!!!  My back yard is looking like poopville.

[FlbrkMike]

I know what you mean about depression.  Sometimes you get to a plateau in the recovery process and things seem like they are not progressing much.  You just get tired of the pain and immobility and wonder if you'll ever completely recover.  Usually, though, within a few days you'll notice another big milestone and again marvel at how fast your recovery is going.  

For me, I'm 18 days past my second BHR.  I'm working full time (from home last week and in the office this week) and driving.  My doctor gave me a four week weight bearing restriction this time, though, so I'm stuck on two crutches until at least the middle of next week when I have my follow-up appointment.  Having to use two crutches is very frustrating because it really limits what you can do.  I feel like I could throw the crutches away and just start walking, but...doctor's orders and stuff.  My yard is just going all to hell and is full of waist-high weeds.

[joedb123]

I am on crutches for 1 month per my doctors Orders. I could see where if you feel It, you would try to walk without support. To my mind Drs word is law. I am waiting to leave the hospital right now and am looking forward to being home. I am adopting a doctrine of patience which is completely against my nature. I want to give my body the time and conditions to heal.

My doctor stopped by this morning to check in and again assured me everything I am experiencing is normal and the procedure went extremely well. I guess I could not ask for more.

[jjmclain]

HipnHop-

Once you hit the 4 week mark and certain restrictions are lifted such as the 90 degree rule and any weight bearing restrictions, things will improve greatly. You will be able to start moving more, exercising more within limits, etc. and you will feel so much better. Be patient...you will get there. As a fellow triathlete, I know where you are coming from. There is light at the end of the tunnel!!!


JM