How does one determine the right moment to take action?

[JayRoss]

The X-ray reveals direct contact between bones. The discomfort is intermittent and not overly severe, but I consistently sense that things aren't as they used to be. I had a conversation with Dr. Gross on the phone, and he mentioned that we could proceed with the procedure either now or at a later time. The decision ultimately hinges on how long I'm willing to endure my current condition. I would describe my ability to handle minor difficulties, yet it's evident that I'm far from the level I was at before experiencing a sudden episode in December of last year. How does one determine the right moment to take action?

[catfriend]

It's not going to get better without surgery. You will never return to the level you were at previously without surgery. Your pain will only continue to get worse, and the good days will become further and further apart. So....what are you waiting for? If you ask most people on this board the overwhelming majority are going to say they wish they had done it sooner than they actually did. You can be one of those people who waits and regrets waiting, or you could get it done and return to your previous level of activity sooner.

[spartykus]

It's not going to get better without surgery. You will never return to the level you were at previously without surgery. Your pain will only continue to get worse, and the good days will become further and further apart. So....what are you waiting for? If you ask most people on this board the overwhelming majority are going to say they wish they had done it sooner than they actually did. You can be one of those people who waits and regrets waiting, or you could get it done and return to your previous level of activity sooner.

Great reply catfriend…I completely agree. I left it for 4 years, for my own reasons. But if I could go back I would have done it sooner, if I could have swung it. If only to be pain free…..

[hernanu]

The X-ray reveals direct contact between bones. The discomfort is intermittent and not overly severe, but I consistently sense that things aren't as they used to be. I had a conversation with Dr. Gross on the phone, and he mentioned that we could proceed with the procedure either now or at a later time. The decision ultimately hinges on how long I'm willing to endure my current condition. I would describe my ability to handle minor difficulties, yet it's evident that I'm far from the level I was at before experiencing a sudden episode in December of last year. How does one determine the right moment to take action?

Hi Jay,

As has been mentioned, the hip unfortunately degrades over time. The arthritis does not go away.

Having said that it does ultimately come down to you and your decision. I understand that major surgery is not something to take lightly, but the possibility of not only removing that pain but fixing the issue to me was what got me moving.

Once I got the surgery, the results have been great for me. It's a long recuperation, and you have to be disciplined not to push things, since your body will feel better, but is still mending.

Your time is your own, but it is a good thing to treat yourself well. Don't put up with pain if there's a good alternative. HR is not a guarantee, but the odds are really good.

Good luck...