Morning everyone,
Still in hospital and I'm 5 days post op. Hoping to come home tomorrow or Thursday but right now I just don't feel ready although I'm getting the feeling I'm being pushed out the door.
Surgey was a little longer than Mr Treacy's standard 25-30 mins, but he warned me of that. Think I was done in an hour.
I'm mobilising ok. Very tender, sore and stiff. Have yet to attempt the stairs and I'm having a real tough time getting back into bed, and I keep feeling faint but all in all I'm happy and I can't wait for the regular muscle pain to ease so that I can be pain free.
Hi Ruby
Great to hear from you. It takes some people a long time to get it all together after such major surgery. Sounds like you are working on it. I was getting dizzy a lot. The meds sometimes do that. Maybe it's the pain meds. You might mention it to the nurse.
You will have surgery pain for awhile since you had such a bad hip. In time you will be doing it all. Most people have a difficult time getting back in bed since they can't lift their operated leg well.
Usually people only stay about 2 -3 days in the hospital, so it sounds like they are taking their time with you. You will feel better when you get home. Nothing like being home. You will adjust and get along ok. Just take things slowly. You will be surprised how well things will go.
I started you a new thread so people can find your posts easier.
Good Luck. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Pat
Hang in there, Ruby. Like Pat said, this is major surgery and we all react differently. You will be home soon and everything will start looking up.
Hi Ruby, welcome to the other side! I am still very tender and sore too. I've got a touch of elephantitis in the operated leg and the pain isn't receding as quick as I'd like but it is early days. Am on day seven which is great, the first week anniversary, hope you get home safe and can start your proper recovery xxx
Hey Ruby, it all sounds pretty normal and comparable to what I went through both times. I didn't have the dizzyness, but like Pat mentioned, that may be fixed by change in meds. I was out the door in four days the first time, three the second time around.
Having trouble with getting in and out of bed will be with you for a while, the hip needs to heal and the muscles are ticked off at you. Several of us have used different strategies for getting in and out that cut down on the pain, mine was tucking my undone ankle under the done one and using it to support the movement both in and out - other folks used a crutch, etc.
In context, the pain lessens - most of it was gone fairly quickly for me (four to five weeks), but it still lingers in some fashion for a while, while you heal and recuperate. You will notice though, that the pain of healing and its diminution is nothing like that grinding pain.
Like Pat says, home is a good healing place. You'll make some good progress, be moving around with impunity in no time.
Hi Ruby-
Fantastic news-congrats on the BHR-just think of the good times that lay ahead without that awful pain.
I think I saw you in the ROH yesterday, I'm not sure.
It was about 2.30 ish in the x-ray dept. If it was you, we were side by side on our beds for about 30 secs as we got moved around.
I'd been keeping my eye out for you based on your avatar pic and was fairly certain it was you but then the porter called you Michelle just as I was about to say hello if I heard Ruby.
After, I thought I might have read one your old posts with that name but maybe not.
Whoever she was looked a lot like you!
Great to see your improving, I found it much harder than I thought-the bruising looks like I've been run over!
I'm back home in York now, got my meds sorted and feeling good.
My post has been moved to THR, but I'll be following your progress closely.
I had a lot of dizziness too, but the next time i stood upthe following day, it was fine.
I felt it again when I did the stairs on crutches yesterday, but the physio said no probs, just overdid it a bit.
Take it easy, heal well.
Mike D
Hello Mike glad to see and hear you're doing so well.
That was me in x-ray!!! Ruby is my nickname :) you looked well! I was falling asleep waiting to be taken back to the ward. Were you on 2?
I'm definately home tomorrow. Physio's are pleased. I've never seen so much bruising and swelling in my life. That's really all that's causing me pain. I can now walk the length of the ward which is a huge improvement in itself. X
I'm really glad for both of you. Sounds like things are going well 8)
Keep up the good work ruby! X
Danny
Ruby
I knew it!
I was on 12-the other end to you I think.
What about Mr Treacy then-cool dude, Eh?
When I was sat on the wheelchair, getting prepped for the slab, the theatre door swung open and he came out looking at his iphone!
Every word he spoke to me just filled me with confidence, that is a guy at the very top of his proffession.
One thing he said that will stick with me forever was- " I've got the resurfacing kit, but you know it maybe a ceramic. Whatever hip I can give you will be stable, long lasting and pain free, see you in two minutes"
That relaxed me totally, and not getting the BHR I longed for just doesn't matter now.
I'm trawling this place for all the top recovery tips, hope yours goes well.
Also, now I'm relaxed at home, I'm thinking of the future without OA. What a great thought that is!
He's a confidence inspiring guy mike!
Not sure weather ive posted this before mike but when I was in the pre op room waiting for my op the anaesthesiologist was wanting to administer his drugs and I just had it in my head that when I was out Mr T might not do the op and someone else might.
So me being me the paranoid stubborn git that I am I told the anaesthesiologist in no uncertain terms was he knocking me out till I'd seen THE MAN!! So out come Mr T and as hay was up? And I said look doc I've just got it in my head that once I'm ko'd you won't do the op! So I said there 2 options either I just have a spinal or you give me your word that you and only you will do the op! He smiles and said I promise. That was good enough for me and out I went like a good boy ;D
Good stuff Ruby. Getting in and out of bed was definately the hardest bit for me. Herns tip with using the good leg really helped me. Icing will help with the swelling when you get out. Wishing you all the best.
Quote from: Dannywayoflife on August 14, 2012, 03:02:43 PM
He's a confidence inspiring guy mike!
Not sure weather ive posted this before mike but when I was in the pre op room waiting for my op the anaesthesiologist was wanting to administer his drugs and I just had it in my head that when I was out Mr T might not do the op and someone else might.
So me being me the paranoid stubborn git that I am I told the anaesthesiologist in no uncertain terms was he knocking me out till I'd seen THE MAN!! So out come Mr T and as hay was up? And I said look doc I've just got it in my head that once I'm ko'd you won't do the op! So I said there 2 options either I just have a spinal or you give me your word that you and only you will do the op! He smiles and said I promise. That was good enough for me and out I went like a good boy ;D
THAT, Danny is a great story... ::) I know the drill, sometimes having been accused of being a slight bit ornery.
Nice one Ruby! Glad to hear your finally coming out tomorrow! Keep us posted with all your progress.
Shame you and Mike didnt get to have a good gossip! x
Great to hear from you Mike :)
Ruby- Have a good journey home, just remember to stop after an hour for a little walk! I had trouble managing stairs- was in hospital a week, as others have said already, heal happily at home x
You know it's weird I saw Mike come in and heard the porter call him Michael, but it's such a common name that I thought there's no way that could be him! Wish we could have said hello, mind you I was completely drugged up at the time!
I'm finally home. A normally 3 hour journey, took 4 hours due to the frequent amount of stops and the last leg was particularly painful despite taking all my meds. I feel wiped out and in a lot of pain but it's good to be home. I just can't wait for the swelling to go down.
Yay, Ruby, you're home! Take it easy chick and be very kind to yourself. Xxx
Ruby-
my swelling is slowly going down now-its feeling great.
I hope it goes as well for you, and I'm pretty sure it will.
I had a nurse visit today to change my dressing, got rid of the big bulky one they put on to get me through the journey home, so I got to see my lovely neat scar.
Even that makes a difference, now easier to sit down etc.
I'm catching up on sleep, eating properly and feeling better than I have for ages.
Pretty much everything I read on here about recovery is now happening to me, so we've got a lot to look forward to.
My first night home was rough, no sleep, sore etc but I've found that my body has now relaxed into healing and it just feels great.
Get some kip Ruby-really looking forward to your story unfolding, Mike.
Hi Ruby and Mike
Glad it went well for you both. Had op last Thursday and am very glad to be home and recovering. Will post tomorrow
Ka
Nice to see all of you starting your recovery. Remember that ice and movement are your best friends, Ka - good to see things went well.
Great to hear from you Mike, great you`re doing so well. and to you also Ka.
Ruby hope you`re finding it relaxing being back home x
Hi Ka,
Hope your operation went well, looking forward to reading up on your progress.
My first few hours at home have been difficult. After the OT team at the hospital saying I wouldn't need any aids at home, i've discovered our toilet seat is far too low so going to the bathroom has been very awkward. Luckily my Father has borrowed one so that will make things easier.
I'm just so tired all the time now. I keep dropping off at every opportunity.
Give in to that, Ruby - it's an important part of healing, just enjoy the rest.
I'm certainly doing that Hern! I've slept so much today that i've not done any of my PT exercises! Ooops! x
MISS RUBY RED! Get those PT excersises done! ;)
Yes Miss Anna! ;) Will start afresh in the morning x
lol Ruby, sleep is very good for you, helps to heal! Was my excuse anyway :) x
Ruby what exercises were you given Ruby? I was given zero info on my discharge.
Danny
Quote from: Dannywayoflife on August 17, 2012, 04:41:04 AM
Ruby what exercises were you given Ruby? I was given zero info on my discharge.
Danny
They were from my physio's. I was given a set of about 4 or 5 exercises for laying in bed about 2 days after surgery. Basic muscle clenches to help the buttocks and thigh muscles. Then on my discharge I was given another set of about 5 exercises for standing up... leg raises, calf lifts etc.
What ward were you on again Danny? That sounds awful that you weren't discharged with anything. Ward 2 were wonderful, I saw a member of the surgical team every day, had regular wound checks and physio sometimes twice a day.
I've just had the visit from the district nurse. All looks well, the scar is lovely and neat. Have about 40 clips which will be taken out next week :)
Ha nope didnt get anything from the physios just attitude! I was on ward 3 it was staffed by bank workers when i was there as all the permenant staff were off. I was literally taken down the stairs once (took 3 physios to help me) then was told at like 1900 at night i was being discharged with a 170 mile car journey to do. Still really P***** me off the way i was mugged off by them.
Did you not get someone coming around asking for feedback? I swear I had about 3 different people asking if my stay was ok and what they could have done differently.
Nope had non of that! We made an official complaint but they just covered everything up. But it's water under the bridge now. X
I wonder what Mike's impression of his ward was. I think he was on 12. I did have a dodgy bank nurse on my first day there, but that was the only time I saw her. The rest of the time I had permanant staff who couldn't have done more for me and the other patients.
I second the comment of Pat. I am 3 days post op and the relief of going home yesterday was amazing. Also cut out any opiates which were making me feel sick and strange. I figure muscle pain is going to be about for many weeks so just going to get used to it. The pain is much easier to handle than the hip pain before as I know it will go away in the future.
I was given the same as Ruby, they`re are also available on the Mcminn website and youtube. How strange Danny. Anyway pleased to hear all are now doing well.
How's it going Ruby?
Are you managing to get enough rest? Hope you're getting back on track.
Quote from: Mike D on August 18, 2012, 11:58:32 AM
How's it going Ruby?
Are you managing to get enough rest? Hope you're getting back on track.
Hi Mike,
In some ways I feel i'm improving. The pain isn't as bad as it was, however the swelling appears to have gotten worse. The underside of my knee is rock solid and my foot is similiar to that of an elephant! I'm sure though that the beautiful hot weather today has much to do with it.
I had to remove my TEDS to wash this morning and my legs have swollen that much that they no longer fit! I'm seeing the nurse again on Monday, so will get her advice. As long as I move about during the day and continue to take my injections at night, I should be ok till then.
How are you getting on? x
The best thing i found for the swelling was ICE. ;)
Quote from: Dannywayoflife on August 18, 2012, 06:08:09 PM
The best thing i found for the swelling was ICE. ;)
In that case I need a whole leg wrap full of ice!! I'm not joking my entire leg is double the size of the good one! It's shocking lol I sat with my feet in a bowl of cold-ish water whilst watching the X Factor which was heaven!
Quick question guys about sleeping positions. I wasn't given any advice on this prior to discharge, in fact I was told I have no restrictions other that Mr Treacy wants me to partial weight bear for 6 weeks. I can kind of sleep on my back, but it does get incredibly uncomfortable and I long to sleep on my side as that's how I sleep normally, but is it safe?? x
Danny's right, Ruby - ice is your friend and should be your constant companion. As long as you follow he right protocol - 10 minutes on, 20-30 off, don't have it in direct contact with your body, I iced continuously as I could to bring both swelling and other pains down.
As to sleeping on the side, I slept on my back for six weeks, until I could sleep on my side. At first it was just not possible for me, eventually did get there.
Ruby you could try sleeping on your good side with a pillow between your legs. Worked for me. X
Hi Ruby
Sorry to hear about the swelling. sometimes if you are too active, it will cause more swelling. Are you walking a bit too much? I would elevate, ice and take my meds as much as possible. Ice on and off thru out the day. I would definitely check with the nurse. Make sure all is well.
Most people put a pillow between their legs to sleep on their sides. Usually they can't sleep on the operated side for a long time. Some can. So you need to try things out. Even if you can do the unoperated side for 1/2 hour, it feels good. The pillow keeps your leg in the optiumum position.
I sure wish you could be having an easier and faster recovery.
Pat
Hi Ruby
If its any comfort to you the swelling in my leg has got worse over the last few days, especially by the end of the day. I thought my leg was going to explode by the time I got to bed last night, quite scary! No amount of rest, ice or elevation was helping. As Pat says perhaps walking a bit too much.
Amazed that by the morning the swelling is down to usual level. I find that lying down for about an hour couple of times a day does help. Every day brings something new!
Ka
I'm exactly the same regarding swelling and bruising- a monstrous looking black & blue limb!
When I take the stockings off for the shower,it's such a relief and the last thing I want to do is put them back on but I've stuck with it-or more like, my wife & son have!
I'm also struggling with sleep-only getting an odd hour through the night, then down for a brew at 3am, back up, shuffle and squirm a bit more etc.
When I've been sat awake in the dead of night, I've been wondering what Ruby, Sal, Ka & jono are doing-pretty much the same, it seems!
Clips out Tuesday-looking forward to that.
Hi All recovery guys, I'm the same, swollen and tender and longing for sleep. I tried Bilateral Bliss's suggestion or was it Hern's to put two pillows under the knees, it's better. One night I decided to sleep on my front and had to dive bomb into the bed, wriggle up using the brass bed head to help pull me up the bed, flip the covers with my unoperated leg and lie with my feet hanging out the brass bed foot. I lasted an hour then had to repeat the procedure in reverse, lots of oofing and puffing, would have been comedy gold had poor old hubs filmed it, he was pretty bemused as I insisted on doing it on my own! I know the future is rosy, I just need to get further along the recovery path but it's early days yet! Thinking of you all, we are not alone! Sal x
10 days post op...
The sleeping is getting better but i'm still sleeping during the day. Just woken up from a 4 hour nap! I'm sure it's the morphine!
The stockings still refuse to be put back on. Thank the heavens the nurses are back tomorrow to give some help as they're just not playing ball with me anymore. The swelling is massive! I've new bruises turning up in all sorts of places on my operated leg. The latest is right behind my knee cap.
I tried to cut my pain meds down, to see if I could handle things, but the night before last was awful pain-wise so i'm back on the full prescription again.
Sal, you did make me laugh the the images of you dive-bombing the bed!! Everything is such an effort isn't it? Just trying to get comfortable. Especially in this weather. Last night I put a rolled up pillow under my thigh and a cushion under my heel, and had a much better night :-) x
Hey Ruby,
Wow, 10 days has gone fast! Are you hobbling around now? Have you been on any adventures outside? I think a giant thigh and millions of bruises is only natural. I always look like that after a days mountain biking ;D
Glad to hear everything seems to be going well. x
I've not ventured outside since I returned home last Wednesday. Planning on going for a short walk tomorrow with Mum. I'm moving around the house pretty well though. The stairs are so much easier than before but i'm still having to use the toilet seat raiser, I just can't bend that far down yet.
I'm must admit though, I keep forgetting to do my exercises :( x
Ruby- you are EXACTLY the same as I was! Had no trouble sleeping :)
Bruising and swelling all perfectly natural. As for the surgical stockings- they were the worst part, I was lucky being winter, must be worse in this heat! Only the nurses could do mine too, even my brother whose a dr had trouble. Raised toilet seat lasted til 6 weeks were up.
Happy healing to everyone :)
The good news is guys that I'm feeling less and less like a patient now and I feel like I'm returning to humanity.
Showering is still out of the question due to having to cock my leg over the bath tub so i'm making do with strip washes which are a pain - especially in this heat - but needs must and it won't be forever :-)
I think my clips are dying to come out now. They keep pinching me at every opportunity and are my main source of pain now. Roll on Thursday! x
That was such a relief to me when the staples were out. Felt like I was on the mend properly then. Those surgical stockings are bloody horrible but if it stops DVT then you just have to put up with it.
I've spent 2 days without the stocking due to swelling. Thankfully the nurses are coming today, so they should be back on by this evening. x
All of what you guys are describing brings back memories and it was only about 9 weeks ago.
Ruby, I've been following your posts and am so glad that you finally got your HR! I had bilateral HR from Dr. De Smet in Belgium July 3, 2012, and am so relieved to have it over with and very happy at the 6 week mark! Just know that you will feel better gradually not day to day but..... please do your excercises every day-it makes a huge difference and walk ....everyday -short walks 2 or 3 times-don't have to do marathons!!! This will make a huge difference in how you feel and aid your recovery tremendously. I am having some issues with right leg strength (my left-worse hip, is terrific) so decided to ramp up my excercises to 2x day and it is making a difference . Good luck with everything -you've had a lot of obstacles but the worse is over and with some effort and discipline you will start to feel GREAT! :)
Thanks Torontogirl!
I've just done my exercises and been for a very short walk to the bottom of our road and back. I'm shattered! x
Keep it up Ruby!!!! :)
Thanks Anna,
Had a rather sad couple of hours. Very tearful. I've just found out one of my closest friends has just had her baby, but i'm unable to go and see her with everyone else cos of this bloody hip :( I don't know why, but it just broke me :'(
Aw Ruby, hugs xx
Well Done Ruby!!!-you should be feeling pleased with yourself reg. xercise & walk. Keep it going! Give yourself a week and you should feel up to visiting your friend's new baby (they don't grow much in a week!!!) Hope you got your TEDS back on with nurses help.
Thanks girls :)
My friend just told me that she's going to be so busy for the next couple of weeks that i'm not going to miss anything, but give her a fortnight and we'll have a meet up :)
No joy with the TEDS today! I had a bit of a stroppy nurse who couldn't wait to get out of my front door so didn't feel I could ask her. I rang the GP in the end and i'm seeing the practice nurse tomorrow at 4pm.
Lord preserve us from stroppy nurses! Good luck with the stockings tomorrow, bet you have a really nice cuddle with her new baby when you do meet up, rest assured your friend won't be able to wait too long to introduce you two!
Ruby-
Do you have a date for your 6 week appointment?
Mine is Weds 19th September- if you're the same day, we'll have to meet up for a coffee and compare notes!
I haven't recieved mine as yet, Mike. The ward clerk wasn't working the day I was discharged so I'm expecting it in the post soon! Mr T does his clinic on a Wednesday, so chances are we'll be on the same day!
Always get one stroppy one! Time will fly, you`ll soon see the new baby. It`s a another step towards feeling normal when the staples come out :) (Check it`s Ok then to start applying scar treatment oil) hugs xx
I can't believe it's almost 2 weeks post-op. Already I'm moving around much more than I was a week ago. Getting some slight groin pain again today. First time I've felt it, but i'm hoping it's because my poor muscles have been through so much that they're still just ticked off at me. x
That's most likely, ruby - keep icing and moving, then resting and posting... Ah... the hippy life.
Happy 2 week birthday Ruby!!! ;D
Hope you've had your staples out Ruby. I know it was such a relief to have mine out, can't image having them in this long.
Ka
I finally got the staples out this morning!
Was due to be yesterday but the nurses phoned and cancelled due to being too busy and said "oh, one more day won't make no difference" Excuse me?? Maybe not to you, but to my comfort it does! I wasn't pleased really, but a lovely nurse came out this morning and it's such a relief to get rid of that nasty pinching sensation every time I moved!
Hurrah, they're out! Have you a beautiful scar to flash?! Xx
The nurse covered it back up again!!! Grrrr I want to be able to add it to the gallery ;Dx
Ruby,
I have not been on lately, but, I am so glad to see you are doing so well. You certainly have comeback from despair to being happy once again.
Keep up the good healing, as you can see this forum has lot's of good people who have been paying it forward.
Chuck
I'm getting there Chuck. One day at a time :)
So today miss Ruby I went to Leeds festival, as you know. I was singing along to the kaiser chiefs and was thinking about you when they were singing Ruby Ruby Ruby Ruby nah nah nah nah nah naaaaaaah .........
And then I saw the Foo Fighters. Im not sure if any of you are into music but the Foo Fighters are my all time favourite band. They sing a song called 'Walk'. Its my favourite because of the lyrics. .... "Learning to walk again, I believe ive waited long enough, where do I begin?" Its just too true. The last time I saw them sing this song was years ago when I was fully fit and bouncing around like a moron, today I was sat on my chair wishing I could dance like everyone else. I cant deny I actually shed a little tear (Though it was ok, it was dark and noone saw!) I thought about all you hippies learning to walk again ..... next time I hear that song I will be bouncing. Im pretty sure my time will have come and I will have learnt to walk again.
Thats my thoughts today x x
Hi Anna
Isn't it strange how things like that work out- all those years you've listened to that song and now it has a different meaning!
When you hear it with a pain free hip, I bet it will sound even better. Think of the moshing around you'll be doing.
My mate called round on his motorbike today and I watched him fly off up the road thinking-'how long till I'm back on mine?'
It won't be this year but I'm already looking forward to Spring when I'll get back on and get back to enjoying life and not have my hip dictate everything I do.
You'll be back shouting and dancing, Anna-no doubt about it.
Ha ha, im too old to mosh Mike ... but a dance will be great.
... and I reckon you will be back on your bike next spring. As soon as the weather is nice! ;D
And you, Tigger, will have recovered your boing! Xx
bOING bOING
Afternoon everyone,
I'm suffering from the dreaded groin pain today. Reminds me hugely of the groin issues I had pre-surgery, but i'm assuming this is all fairly normal so early on in recovery :)
I get it too Ruby, I thought I'd pulled something dive bombing he bed. I have found it worse at night and that s the only thing that wakes me. I've been bending the knees up sleeping on my back and that has seemed to relieve it. Does anyone else have a remedy?
I've been able to bend my operated knee fully now which definately helps the comfort levels. This morning though, I was so frustrating sleeping on my back, so thought i'd try putting a pillow between my legs and lay on my non operated side. It felt a bit weird at first. Like all my weight on the operated side was pushing down on to my good side - so heavy! - but it felt nice to take the pressure off my back.
Quote from: Anna on August 24, 2012, 08:56:15 PM
And then I saw the Foo Fighters. Im not sure if any of you are into music but the Foo Fighters are my all time favourite band. They sing a song called 'Walk'. Its my favourite because of the lyrics. .... "Learning to walk again, I believe ive waited long enough, where do I begin?"
Hi Anna,
Every walk on crutches I played that song! Might be your recovery theme song when the time comes!
Cheers
Mike
Everyday you will find yourself improving and you will be able to do more and more things.
Start a journal, write down how you feel and the new things you are able to accomplish everyday.
Good stuff.
Chuck
Quote from: rubyred on August 25, 2012, 08:18:40 AM
I've been able to bend my operated knee fully now which definately helps the comfort levels. This morning though, I was so frustrating sleeping on my back, so thought i'd try putting a pillow between my legs and lay on my non operated side. It felt a bit weird at first. Like all my weight on the operated side was pushing down on to my good side - so heavy! - but it felt nice to take the pressure off my back.
You're so early, you're going to get twinges of all sorts right now. The muscles have to come back and will be upset for a bit. I think if you do your exercises, get the muscles stronger, work on the proper gait, things improve.
Hi girls- have you tried the stretching the leg outwards, holding for 5 secs, then slowly back to straight. whilst laying on your back? Was one of the early exercises given to me. Then go back to the bent comfy knees:) xx
I'm still unable to move my leg outwards laying down :( Quite sore and heavy to do so...
Had the worst night sleep since the surgery last night. Just could not get comfortable... on my back, my side, everything hurt.
Ouch Ruby, can you try with a plastic bag under your foot, makes the resistance less. It's no wonder though, you have a big scar= cut muscle, and your surgery wasn't straightforward. In the early days it's going to be slower, but you'll catch up / overtake soon!
I wish I'd known you were up, we could have had a chat.... I too was awake 3-5.30am......
Hang in there and very gently, keep moving xxxxx
I'm feeling your pain Ruby!
I had bad lower back pain Friday night and all day yesterday-hardly any sleep and unable to do exercises yesterday, easily my worst night/day so far.
On my first week home, I was improving a lot every day but it's levelled off now. Better today though.
If I didn't have all the advice from the experienced hippys here, I'd have thought there was something wrong and probably been back at the Docs, but reading through the old recovery posts, I'm not worried by it.
I like that tip from Sal about sliding the foot on a plastic bag-I'll be trying that.
Keep going Ruby-it will get better.
The only way I could slide my leg sideways was with a plastic apron the physio gave me underneath it to start with. But if you do get it going it is surprising how quick it gets easier.
Thanks for the tips! Will be trying the plastic bag thing for sure.
I'm getting lazy with my exercises :( I have no excuse for not doing them really, it's not like i'm busy doing other things LOL. But the good news is i'm down to using one crutch! Around the house only so far, but it feels perfectly fine and comfortable to do so. And I managed to get into town for a VERY short while this morning... no pain at all. Was bliss :)
Awww yey, for making it to town Ruby!!! But boo to you and Mike having bad days. ... but then you have to have the bad days to appreciate the good ones ;D
Im pretty sure that very soon the good days will start to out number the bad ones and you will both be very happy with your new wings. Just keep going!! ... and try do those exercises Ruby. Even if you only manage to do a little. I reckon some of the tiniest things will make the biggest differences. x
Having good and bad days are to be expected really. I think I'm missing retail therapy.... x
Hi Ruby
You sure are right about the good and bad days. It's really frustrating if you have made progress to feel as though you are going backwards again. Well done with the 'one crutch walking' and the walk into town. I find I'm putting too much pressure on my hip if I try that, but I did have a long (relatively speaking) walk today.
Ka
Hang on in there- it gets better, still early days for you all. Ruby- get online shopping!!:)
Quote from: rubyred on August 15, 2012, 02:38:09 PM
I'm finally home. A normally 3 hour journey, took 4 hours due to the frequent amount of stops and the last leg was particularly painful despite taking all my meds. I feel wiped out and in a lot of pain but it's good to be home. I just can't wait for the swelling to go down.
Hi Ruby. Glad to hear that things went well, if a little painful post op. Got my op scheduled with Mr T in two weeks time (aaargh, so scary). can I ask you how the journey home went, in a little more detail? I've got a similar distance to travel. Could you sit normally on the car? Did you have to have the seat reclined? Any tips? Not looking forward to it to be honest.
Lycraman,
I dont think anyone looks forward to the op, the journey home or the recovery ......... its the future you need to look foward to. Thats the best bit which will be completely worth every miserable second you will have over the next few months.
Good luck, I hope everything goes really well :)
Anna
Quote from: lycraman on August 27, 2012, 12:31:38 PM
Quote from: rubyred on August 15, 2012, 02:38:09 PM
I'm finally home. A normally 3 hour journey, took 4 hours due to the frequent amount of stops and the last leg was particularly painful despite taking all my meds. I feel wiped out and in a lot of pain but it's good to be home. I just can't wait for the swelling to go down.
Hi Ruby. Glad to hear that things went well, if a little painful post op. Got my op scheduled with Mr T in two weeks time (aaargh, so scary). can I ask you how the journey home went, in a little more detail? I've got a similar distance to travel. Could you sit normally on the car? Did you have to have the seat reclined? Any tips? Not looking forward to it to be honest.
Hi Lycraman,
Good luck for your surgery, you really are in the best hands with Mr T. It's natural to be scared, but if I can do it, the worlds worst worrier and someone who has an over active imagination, then anyone can!
The journey home wasn't as bad as I first thought, but yet it wasn't pain free either. I would definately take your meds maybe 30-60 mins before you set off to give them a chance to kick in and ask the nurses for some ice to take with you to put where it's most painful.
I travelled home in my dad's car. He has a Ford Focus Estate so it's a little roomy and I was advised by the doctors to sit in the passenger seat, with it fully pushed back and reclined, to give you the optimum leg room. Plus it's easier to have a nap if you can.
Also take frequent breaks. I cannot stress how important this was for me. Yes, it will take you longer to get home, a normal 3 hour trip took 4-5 hours, but you'll be more comfortable in the long run. We were recommended to stop every 30-45 mins, but we probably stopped once an hour. But you might need to do this anyway for bathroom breaks. That's something no one tells you about this surgery.... how often you have to relieve yourself! Suze will back me up on that!!
Ask whoever will be driving you to drive as carefully as they can. This may sound obvious, but my Dad gets into his own head sometimes and going down residential streets he forgot about speed bumps, pot holes etc...
For me the last hour was the worst. I was in pain, i'm not going to lie to you. I just couldn't get comfortable and in the end I rested my good leg up on to the dashboard for a little more comfort! Not sure how legal that was, but my dad said he could still see so... :P
Please feel free to contact me if you need any further help :)
Hi Lycraman, For the journey home I sat on a memory foam pillow, it absorbed the bumps which I remember hurt last time.
At home, My favourite thing has been the granny chair I borrowed, a rise and recline chair. Or a La-z-boy. It is easier to get comfy in it. Pressure on the wound is uncomfortable so seatbelts etc aren't nice. If you can, get lots of pillows available for your bed, a v shaped one is useful too, I've been sleeping sitting up and am gradually heading for lying down as time passes. I also made sure that I had smooth sheets on the bed for my return, it makes getting in and out easier, doing your bed exercises easier and if you sometimes sleep on your front it helps with the bed dive bombing ;D
You just need to be as kind to yourself as possible for the two weeks following your surgery. Your life is going to get so much better, in a relatively short space of time, but boy does that time DRAG! Have some good books on standby, I love my iPad which has been a godsend. If you are going to be alone at home for any length of time, I'd recommend a small rucksack and a hot drink cup that doesn't leak, too. Playing hunt the phone is annoying on crutches so keeping it lose with your rucksack is great.
Can you borrow raised loo seats and grabbers too? Try the red cross, they loan them out. If you need to buy, amazon for the loo seat which needs to bring you up to the height of your knee bent. My loo was 16" high, my knee bend is 19" so I bought a 4" raised seat. Sue Ryder in the uk sold grabbers, the short ones are fine. Essential for getting your own undies on! ;)
Very good luck for the op, keep posting we'll all be here to cheer you along. Hurrah for the hippies! Keep busy until then. You'll be fine! Xx
Lycraman
My journey home was almost identical to Ruby's-same length, number of stops,etc.
The only thing I could add was that in the hospital, I only ever wore shorts but put jogging pants on for the journey home.
That last hour, like Ruby's, was awful and as I sat squirming around trying to get comfy, I hadn't realised that my TED stocking had ridden down around my ankle.
By the time my wife & son got me laid out on the bed at 1.30am my calf was really enormous and heavily bruised, really throbbing.
It felt so much better when the stocking was back on. It didn't do me any harm as things are nearly back to normal now, but it's something to consider.
My trip was in my son's VW Polo, so quite small but even at 6' tall, I got in it ok.
Hi lycraman! Ruby`s description echoed mine perfectly, YES I do back her up on the bathroom breaks :)
The only difference was I had the 90 degree rule so had to get in and out with straight legs!
Was better then the journey going- at least was out of agony lol
Happy 3 weeks Ruby red xxxxx
Thanks Sal :) I'm going through a relapse, but I'm hoping all will be well soon x
What's happened Ruby? I'm so sorry to hear you have relapsed. Have you not recovered from overdoing it in town? :(
I've not been out of bed for two days, But am feeling better. Scar tissue is still very sore and the lergy made my bones ache really badly particularly the new one. I went back onto my pills.
Hope you are feeling a bit better, keep moving even though gently, and keep taking the pills, they are there to help.
Thinking of you, it is still v v v v early days
Sal xx
Nope, still not recovered properly. Everything literally hurts :'( I managed to get the doctors this morning for a wound check and at least that all looks nice and normal. The dressings can come off now and I can start on the Bio Oil :)x
Seriously, when does the aching stop?!?! Now the dreaded 'clunking' has started if I move the leg when sitting down, which actually feels the exact same way as it did before surgery! Talk about feeling disheartened! The only thing I've yet to have seemingly, is the 'squeaking'.... though I might as well have that, I have everything else :(
Sorry guys. Feeling really fed up tonight. I didn't know recovery would be this difficult. I hear of people sailing through their recoveries, but I don't feel i'm making much progress. The nurse said it was safe to take the dressings off and how letting the skin breath would help it heal better, but we've had to put some back on as the rubbing of the clothes has brought me out in a rash around the incision. Great. :(
I know it's still VERY early days, 23 days to be exact, maybe i'm just impatient and expecting too much from myself and my body. It has been through quite an ordeal.
Hi Ruby, it sure is a long road. Sounds like Mike is way ahead of me, I still have a very painful incision site and the drain site has only just come out of hiding too. I'm walking on one crutch around the house but still on two for walks outside as I have weakness in the stability muscles, I missed a whole week of recovery walks and strengthening being floored by flu like symptoms. But hey, it's only a battle against my patience, I will get there, doing it slowly but right.
It will and does get better, you are healing just slower than you want to. If you are worried I'm sure one of Mr T's surgical team would chat stuff through with you to put your mind at rest. He said it wasn't straight forward, perhaps it'll take longer to settle down? I don't know about the clunking, is that a muscular phenomenon? Or do you think it's the prosthesis? Once you are healed are you going to get physio? You might be able to request hydro. I'm really looking forward to being in the pool.
Hope it gets better for you soon.
Sal
Quote from: Spanielsal on September 01, 2012, 07:40:34 PM
Hi Ruby, it sure is a long road. Sounds like Mike is way ahead of me, I still have a very painful incision site and the drain site has only just come out of hiding too. I'm walking on one crutch around the house but still on two for walks outside as I have weakness in the stability muscles, I missed a whole week of recovery walks and strengthening being floored by flu like symptoms. But hey, it's only a battle against my patience, I will get there, doing it slowly but right.
It will and does get better, you are healing just slower than you want to. If you are worried I'm sure one of Mr T's surgical team would chat stuff through with you to put your mind at rest. He said it wasn't straight forward, perhaps it'll take longer to settle down? I don't know about the clunking, is that a muscular phenomenon? Or do you think it's the prosthesis? Once you are healed are you going to get physio? You might be able to request hydro. I'm really looking forward to being in the pool.
Hope it gets better for you soon.
Sal
Where I thought Mr T was a complete gent, I found his surgical team a little lacking, one surgeon in particular who drew the incision arrow on my calf instead of my thigh - Much to Mr T's annoyance!!
Mr T did tell me in my last appointment before the surgery that it wouldn't be straight forward, so really I shouldn't be so impatient with things. Things will heal as fast as they need. The clunking feeling I got before surgery... it's hard to explain but it feels like the hip is coming out of the socket, then popping back in again! Now, I know that really can't be happening, but it's what it feels like. It's not at all painful, just a weird sensation and I was quite surprised to be feeling it again after surgery.
As for the physio, I asked the PT's in hospital if I would require anything further at my local hospital and they said no and that for the first 6 weeks they would only get me to do the exercises at home that I have recieved. However on my 6 week follow up appointment should Mr T feel it's necessary for more, he would do me a referral.
How are you feeling now, Sal?
I've just felt brave enough to post a picture of my scar in the gallery!
Hi Ruby,
Still feeling below par, better than a few days ago.thanks. the hip moves well but still hurts, still swollen. I find my rom is increased (my other leg seems decreased with the time off swimming which had helped it. ). The pain in the resurfacing has gone, only the odd twinge so it was definitely referred. The stability will come, it's muscular. Weird that the tissue is hard and lumped under the scar and to the side, I keep gently massaging it but can't tolerate much. I've been doing the bed exercises recently and sleep on my back with my heels drawn right in and knees up, biazzare but is more comfy than flat!
Sorry to hear you didn't get referred for physio, have you got a reasonable GP? Might they refer you on? it really helps, I had to try and work on individual muscles last time. You may also be able to self refer too. Does your local Hosp have a hydro pool? I'm really lucky that we have a hotel with a pool v close. As long as I'm all healed, I can go. It's not warm like a hydro pool but it's water. Must start practicing Brum brumming in my car, can't wait to drive!
It's hard to be patient..... You are already 3 .5 weeks along this road, hopefully your pain is much reduced too. In one year you won't know yourself, you'll be mobile and carefree, all this nightmare will be a memory. Just a socking good scar to show for it, and the mental satisfaction of, I got through it. I am definitely no athlete so not sure I want my 40 yrold wobbly bot on display..... Its not a resurfacing scar anyway...... And Anyway, uploading pics isn't enabled on my profile ....phew wriggled out of that one!! ;D
Hope you feel better, you are a survivor, Ruby. Re-read your posts, you.'ve been to hell and back... The oasis is in view and no, it's not a mirage!
Sal xx
Ruby,try wearing loose jogging clothes, they shouldn`t rub. It is very early, we all get impatient.
Glad you`re doing Ok Sal.
I too had no PT, was told to do the exercises like Ruby,then walking a mile a day from 6 weeks, plus 20mins in a pool. Found both these too much, so built up gradually, am obviously one of the slower healers !
Hi guys,
Sorry for moaning last night. Was just completely fed up. When I take a step back and look at how I was just after surgery, i'm miles ahead. I can now sleep comfortably on my side without pillows under my legs, I'm down to using one crutch, I can climb up and down the stairs a lot quicker, I can even get in and out of bed unaided now if i'm very careful.
Our hospital does have a hydro pool, but would have no idea of how I'd get referred for it. I see my GP the day before Mr T, so will ask.
Don't beat yourself up Ruby. Remember what your body has gone through and give yourself time to recover. It's not an ingrowing toe-nail. :)
Your entitled to have your downs as well as ups. This is a rollercoaster ride.
(Posted from my bed as I finally had to give in and go and have a lie down after forgetting that I'm less than 3 weeks out of hospital)
Ka
Thanks Ka,
Unfortunately this is a rather horrible habit I have - beating myself up. And don't worry, I too have afternoon naps every day!
Hi Folks
many many thanks for all your advice and support. There are so many things that I just hadn't considered ..... loo seats, grabbers, pillows for the journey home etc. What is even more illuminating and heartening is the support that everyone provides to Ruby's emotional ups and downs. It is obvious how emotionally draining the post op 'journey' can be and how the positive support of the group can pull you through.
RubyRed - Good to see that you're seeing the improvements, even if they are small at first. All your hard work now will bring the benefits in the future.
Hi lycraman and Ka:) Good to hear from you, happy healing.
Hi Ruby,
Glad you feeling better.
I guess each of us heal at different rates and in different ways. Sleeping on my side is a luxury I can only dream of at the moment and still on my back at 3 weeks.
My GP basically told me that the NHS is not the best for physio. I am a member at Virgin Health Clubs and they have a great physio. Both my parents had knee replacements and I signed them up for Virgin too. Was the best money I ever spent as they are moving much better now and go swimming 3 times a week.
All the best
Jono
I love Virgin Active Health Clubs. I was a member of one when I first damaged the hip, not their fault I might add! I've had very limited physio on the NHS, just very basic stuff when I had scopes done on the hip and a few years back on my wrist. I would love to get into the hydro pool though. Just have to wait to see what Mr T recommends.
I saw a friend of mine this morning whom I haven't seen in a good couple of months, and as she's one of those people who will be brutally honest if you ask her to be, I asked if it looked like I'd gained any weight since she last saw me and she said: 'Your stomach looks flatter, but your hips look huge' LOL Well, I did ask I suppose!!
I'm a little over 4 weeks post op now. In some ways I feel like i'm going backwards, but in others I feel like i'm improving. My walking is really getting there. I can shuffle around the house unaided although I limp when I do so perhaps I should remain on one or two crutches until the limp has gone. Getting up and down the stairs is fine too, I can do that normally as opposed to one step at a time. No real thigh muscle pain anymore either
The only problem i'm having, and have been for about 2-3 weeks, is this groin pain. I don't get it when I walk, only when I have to lift the leg on or off the bed for example. I had no restrictions from Mr Treacy, so I don't think I'm doing anything wrong. I haven't been over doing it, I get plenty of rest and take my meds if I need to.
I'm seeing Mr Treacy in a couple of weeks so will run this past him, maybe I need more physio or some form of deep tissue massage? This might be a completely normal part of recovery, but it's so very painful :(
I limp when I walk unaided too Ruby. Not sure whether I should persevere or wait a bit. What I have found that helps is concentrating on my posture. Making sure I stand straight and lift my weight and not slouching makes for less limp. Though I suspect that I have limped for such a long time my body is going to take some convincing that this is not how to walk. ;D
Ka
Yes, limping is bad. Try to focus on something in the distance and on not rocking to the side. If you need to go back to your crutches. If you have been limping for a long time you might need a physical therapist to help you strenthen the muscles and unlearn the limp.
I've been limping constantly for close to 2.5 years I would say.... PT is definately needed for that at least.
Pat commented a while back about how important it is to keep the crutches until you can walk properly and it sounds good to me.
She said it was best to go down to using one opposite the operated hip for as long as it takes.
I got so fed up of people asking me about my limp that I'll keep them till the limping ghost is fully exorcised!
I think that I'm so used to being lop sided that a limp feels normal for me now! I don't limp when I use just the one crutch though, so maybe time will sort that.
You have a lot of muscles to retrain, ruby - use whatever doesn't give you a limp. Walking without that will let your body relax and realign.
I wouldn't dare go out without at least a cane or a crutch, but I do admit to 'testing' my body when I'm in the house.... just to see how it copes with walking unaided. Usually it feels weird and unbalanced, so I always have something nearby to grab.
One of Mr T's surgical team kept changing his mind whilst I was in hospital with regards to how long to use the crutches for and how many. At first he said 2 crutches for 2 weeks then to just use whatever felt comfortable and if that meant walking with nothing by the time my 6 week follow up came, then that was a bonus. In the next breath he'd change his mind and said I should remain on 2 crutches until my follow up.... I was a bit confused really so in a way i've followed what feels right for my body and right now it feels most safe and comfortable with 1 crutch.
Hi Ruby,
I passed the 2 year mark yesterday and I've nothing to report except that I feel completely normal.
All the best
Gary.
I'm a little over 5 weeks and this groin pain is showing no signs of letting up! I swear if it wasn't for that I'd be flying high!
HI Ruby, sounds like you are doing fine, the groin pain will go. The outside heals but you are still very tender inside and probably will be for some months yet, but this will gradually get better. I was on two crutches most the time for six weeks. The limp is probably a mental thing as well as muscular, don't rush it, keep up the excercises and walking, it's not really the distance but the quality.
6 Weeks follow up appointment happened this morning.
Didn't see the man himself but his lovely nurse, Christine. All is in great shape. She said the 'not routine' part of my BHR was where Mr T had to angle the device in such a way as my pelvis is so tiny and my hip sockets are some of the smallest he's seen for someone of my age. He had to over hang the device a little, more than he would normally, to get the best fit. If he had tilted it anymore to the right then I would be having severe groin pain - worse than I'm getting now! But other than that, it's perfect. He's very happy apparently.
I can come off the crutches now too! And i'm pretty much free to do as I wish :) Aside from heavy lifting for about 4-5 months. I've been told to look after my new hip and that Mr T will see me again on my hips 'anniversary' :)
I feel weird now. Don't get me wrong, i'm pleased, but I think it's because I've spent years being in so much pain, having not much of a life and now all of a sudden it's like, 'well, go on then! Off you go'. It's almost like I've forgotton how to live, or how to function in a world without arthritic pain..... I don't know what to do first! LOL.
Glad to hear all is well in Ruby's part of the world.
Now go out and live your life to the fullest.
Chuck
When I was two, I scared the bejeebers out of my parents. We had gone to the spa town of Banos on the edge of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
The place is known for its mineral baths and swimming pools surrounding the baths. We were at one of the regular swimming pools, I apparently decided to walk around the pool and on my way back thought it would be good to walk back through the pool.
I walked right into the deep end and remember floating to the bottom, just staring through the water and really enjoying sitting on the bottom. I had gotten up and started walking to the shallow end when my uncle swam down and got me, bringing me up to a truly horrified group of about twenty of my relatives.
What they didn't know is how unafraid and calm I had been under there and how I knew I was just going to walk out. I wouldn't have made it, but now, when things are rough, I've thought of how when you fall, what keeps you intact and going is your attitude and the feeling that things will work out.
Ruby, I remember your struggles before and just after, and you're right, the absence of the pain is a sometimes flummoxing thing, but now you can take that walk out and get back to that awesome life that I know is ahead of you.
Really happy for you.
Thats great Ruby. Im really glad everything is going so well x
Hi Ruby- glad the news is good. I know the feeling- the OA has affected us for so long, the trauma of the surgery and recovery, then it's like we're free again.
I was there today and got the same news-lose the crutches, get swimming and cycling, push yourself within reason to reach down to tie shoelaces- so many new things to do.
I hope you can find time to report in here with all the new activities to do!
Sounds like its going well for you too Mike :)
Ruby I'm so glad your check up went well! Christine is sooooooooo knowlagable about the subject of resurfacing. Mr McMinn talks about the dialing back of the cup to match the anteversion of the femour in one o his interviews. That's how they deal with dyslexia.
Try to keep positive and patient I know how hard it is! But you WILL GET THERE!
Danny
Ruby
Great to hear about your follow-up. Now it is time to start that new life without pain and problems. It will be an interesting part of your new life to start again and learn to live without pain. Good Luck and stay in touch when you can. We still are interested in knowing how things will be going for you. Exciting times!
Pat
Hi Ruby, Im really happy for you! Things are on the upswing. Enjoy. Lyn
Quote from: Dannywayoflife on September 19, 2012, 04:06:54 PM
Ruby I'm so glad your check up went well! Christine is sooooooooo knowlagable about the subject of resurfacing. Mr McMinn talks about the dialing back of the cup to match the anteversion of the femour in one o his interviews. That's how they deal with dyslexia.
Try to keep positive and patient I know how hard it is! But you WILL GET THERE!
Danny
Love it Danny
dyslexia LOL
Quote from: Jason0411 on September 20, 2012, 12:23:11 PM
Quote from: Dannywayoflife on September 19, 2012, 04:06:54 PM
Ruby I'm so glad your check up went well! Christine is sooooooooo knowlagable about the subject of resurfacing. Mr McMinn talks about the dialing back of the cup to match the anteversion of the femour in one o his interviews. That's how they deal with dyslexia.
Try to keep positive and patient I know how hard it is! But you WILL GET THERE!
Danny
Love it Danny dyslexia LOL
Doh!!!! Dam predictive txt on iPhone!
Ruby-
Saw your post on the other thread about knee pain and wondered where you are with the flexibility?
I can't get my knee close to level from a standing position, how about you? I had that awful shin pain you mentioned for about seven days in a row but its eased now, I just get it occasionaly.
Can you tie shoelaces yet? I'm nowhere near, at least a month away, i think.
I think Mr Treacy enjoyed tackling us, I think we gave him something slightly different to fix!
Hi Ruby - really glad you had good news at your check up. Way to go! Ka
Quote from: Mike D on September 20, 2012, 02:43:53 PM
Ruby-
Saw your post on the other thread about knee pain and wondered where you are with the flexibility?
I can't get my knee close to level from a standing position, how about you? I had that awful shin pain you mentioned for about seven days in a row but its eased now, I just get it occasionaly.
Can you tie shoelaces yet? I'm nowhere near, at least a month away, i think.
I think Mr Treacy enjoyed tackling us, I think we gave him something slightly different to fix!
Flexibility is slowly coming back, but VERY slowly. I'm nowhere near to touching my toes or doing my shoelaces. I was told to expect the groin pain for at least another month or so, yet it's all normal.
Haha, yeah Christine told me that I really challenged Mr T and he liked being kept on his toes! Two of us giving him a hard time in one week, he must have loved it!
How are you feeling, ka?
Great news Ruby. You are 1 week ahead of me and a great motivation for my own rehab.
Tying your shoe lace is the ultimate challenge. I have tried it with bending over but just cant reach, I have tried putting my foot on a stool but that is sore and I have tried lying on my stomach and bending my knee behind me which is too complicated. So at the moment still asking for help. :)
Progress!
I went swimming for the first time this week :) It felt particularly weird how all my upper leg strength has gone, so it was a bit of a challenge, and I ended up just doing some exercises and bobbing around whilst my friend did her lengths :) Felt so nice to be active again!
Keep going Jono. This is certainly the toughest challenge I've had to get though, perhaps even worst than fighting to get the surgery to begin with, but I'm seeing some breaks in the clouds now at 6 weeks :)
That's excellent, ruby. Great to see your progress.
Thanks Hern, I think i'm finally getting somewhere but I do find it amazing how quickly we lose our fitness.
I went for a simple 10 minute walk to the post box this afternoon and by the time I was half way I was breathing heavy and my heart was racing!
How are you now RubyRed?
Quote from: Roberta on September 22, 2012, 02:19:39 PM
How are you now RubyRed?
Hi Roberta,
I'm completely exhausted now. I've just managed to have my first bath in over 6 weeks, I've only been able to have showers up till now, so a nice warm bath was just lovely.
I'm still battling with the groin pain, I wish it would go, I feel as if it's the only thing holding me back, that and being so sleepy all the time!
I'm actually thinking of returning to work soon if they can find me a job that doesn't involve heavy lifting. I was doing a desk job before surgery, but my manager wants me to return to a more active role, however that involves climbing ladders, lifting and emptying heavy boxes and crouching down to low shelving to file away stuff. I was told i'm unable to do that for at least 4 months! I think manager and I will need to have a chat about it.
Ouch. Oh my word. Ouch :(
I 'swam', if you can actually call it that, about 3/4 of a length of the pool this evening and the hip is having none of it now. Sheer bloody agony. I feel like i'm going backwards! Groin pain is screaming, lower back is aching..... it's like I've never had the BHR at this point. What is going on?!
Hi Ruby
I feel for you and your groin pain. I am sure that it is just the fact that you're muscles have got used to protecting your damaged joint and now have to start working properly. I hope that you are doing all the simple physio exercises as they will help the muscles to fire in the right way. Eventually you'll get there but it must be hell at the moment. I'm only 2 weeks post op and I thought I was doing so well with my walking (2 slow miles with crutches) etc so had slackened off on the routine physio exercises, but the last two days I've been in agony around my knee. Today I've concentrated on the simple physio exercises such as sliding my heel to my bum on the bed etc and it is amazing what a difference it has made to my tight thigh muscles.
Stick at it and IT WILL GET EASIER - everyone says so!
Hi Ruby,
I found my muscles just need to be retrained.If you stick with the swimming it will get better each time. Avoid breaststroke my physio said and stick to front crawl. I always end with a couple of lengths of walking as well and then to the steam room to let the muscles relax.
Best of luck
Jon
Hi Ruby - May be early days for 'swimming' the way you used to. I've been in the pool this week but just doing arms and just having me legs bob around behind. Am a bit nervous about doing the frogs legs to go with breast stroke. This groin pain is a real 'pain' for you.
Re your return to work, I'd push for a light role and leave the heavy lifting etc till much later. Don't jeapordise your recovery, do as you suggested and chat with your manager.
Ka
When I mentioned swimming on my 6 week appointment Ka, I was told that no swimming stroke is off limits and I can do whatever I pleased. I can't swim breast stroke anyway, never have, I just don't seem to move anywhere ;D
But I'm doing what you're doing. Bobbing around, a few exercises and swimming very lightly. Man, do I ache following it though!
I'm almost at 8 weeks and I feel like i'm starting to go backwards a bit. My groin still feels like it's on fire all the time, i'm back on the Oxycodone at night as the hip is so uncomfortable.
The hip no longer hurts when I walk, but trying to climb stairs, enter or exit a car or just simply tossing and turning in bed is pure hell and it's all coming from the groin. I know Christine said this will pass by 3 months, but it feels like it's getting worse rather than decreasing.
She also said that there's no need for me to have a 4 month check up as they predicted all will be fine but that I could have one if I was worried at that point. If this continues I certainly will ask to see Mr T again!
Hi Ruby.
you sound to be going through a real tough patch. Have you thought about ringing the physios you saw in Birmingham and having a chat with them about possible exercises you could do to help with the groin pain? I was given a number for the physios at the Priory in Birmingham and they said just call if I wanted any advice. I'm sure the ones at the ROH would be just as helpful to give some specific advice. It's worth a try.
I wasn't given any numbers for physios on my discharge sadly, just the phone number for the ward which I could use for general enquires for a little while when I got home.
I am going to see my GP next week, and will definately mention this to him and see what he says.
If it doesn't clear up Ruby, get on the horn and tell them you need to see Mr. T. The only way they can tell that you're concerned is if you make it an issue.
I did this up until nine months, when I had a groin / muscle issue. It went away three weeks after I reported it, but I had a scheduled visit and was in no mood to be denied about it. I cancelled it, but there was no question I was going if it had persisted.
You are really your own best advocate, no one else knows how you feel.
I'm trying not to panic just yet as i'm not sure whether this is just a normal part of recovery and i'm worrying for nothing, but at the same time, I know my surgery wasn't 'standard' and Mr Treacy had to angle the device quite close to my groin as my pelvis is tiny.
I think you're right not to panic, so many things pass as we get better. I certainly had many twinges, clunks and pain / soreness that came and went.
Truth is I never thought it a sign of panic to get in touch with the surgeon, just an extension of my treatment and healing.
Ruby if it's really painful then phone up and ask for another appointment. Mr T is the person to ask about these things.
Hi ruby,
Sorry to hear about the groin pain, i know how unsettling it can be when things flare up after a surgery. Just a thought, but from what you describe, it sounds like the problem could be your rectus femoris tendon (it attaches in a couple of places, one of which is almost right on the edge of the acetabulum). When its inflammed, it can manifest as groin pain and the symptoms you describe (getting in/out of cars etc) fit in. If doing a straight leg raise hurts, this is usually a good indicator that its pi**ed off - this gets upset with any form of hip surgery, it would seem!
If you can, I'd pester them for another appointment for peace of mind if nothing else...
Hang tough,
dav0
I can't even lift my leg a centimetre off the bed due to the pain. At least it gives me a reason to get another prescription of Oxycondone!! I can see how celebs get put into rehab for taking this stuff ;D
Hi Ruby....how are you feeling now, is the groin pain any better ?
Quote from: happy hippy on October 04, 2012, 11:37:15 AM
Hi Ruby....how are you feeling now, is the groin pain any better ?
Hiya, unfortunately it's not :( It's no worse, but no better really. Except for when I take the meds then it eases up a little bit, but I know that it's just masking the issue.
Hi Ruby,
Did you get a chance to see a good physio yet who can massge the muscles? I really found that this helped my progress more than anything. He also gave me a strecthing and strengthening regime I do every day which also worked very well in getting me ready to walk. One of the exercises was lying on the bed on my back, bringing my heels up towards me and gently opening up both knees and then closing them. When I started we were at 15 degrees on my left and now it is almost the same as the right.
All the best
Jon
I am really sorry to hear u are having trouble ruby...I never write on this forum but I check this thread everyday to see if u are getting any better. stay positive! Im sure itll get better!!!
Jono, I see my GP on Tuesday and i'm going to ask him for a referral to a therapist. The pain is damn near unbearable at times.
I've come into my own little thread to have a little sob. I know this is meant to be a place for positivity, but there isn't always possible to be so all the time, so if that offends you, best not to read on.
I'm a little over 8 weeks and i'm slipping backwards on the pain scale. I'm back on the crutches and taking full pain meds again (Paracetamol, Dihydracodiene and Oxynorm) due to this groin pain. I can't lift my leg to put on shoes, socks, get off the bed, into a car... even climbing the stairs which had been pretty easy once the muscular pain had gone, is now a chore.
The only time I don't have pain in when i'm in the pool. It's an hour of bliss and how I invisioned life post surgery to be. I still have a torn mind when it comes to working out whether this is just normal recovery issues or not...
I'm seeing my GP on Tuesday and he said he'll give everything a good look to make sure, in his opinion, everything is in order so maybe i'll be more relaxed then, however the past few days have been trying, emotions wise, constantly crying and getting grumpy with family and friends..... it's tough this surgery lark :(
I think u missunderstood me...it may be because english is my second language and that may have led u to a wrong conclussion. I had my hip resurfacing just 2 weeks before u and for me the first 2 weeks was the most simillar to hell than i have been on earth..i was lucky just to have two weeks living in hell...so i can easily empathize with u and that is reason why i read this thread everyday...because i really hope u say one day that ur pain has just gone away...i just trying u to encourage to go on..i am still angry with the world for having this stupid hip so young...so i know u must be so angry that the op has not gone as expected...and this is the right place to complaint about it...When i had the operation i thought it was going to be easy as it is for some people. I am just sad for u...because ithin that u are very young aswell..anyway i wont post anything else...i didnt mean to upset u even more!!
Its quite hard to write from my mobile aswell...so sorry for grammar and sppelling mistakes!
Hi Ruby
You seem to be having a horrible time, sending you hugs.
As Yingo says, ths is your place to let go, no body is judging you we are here to hold our hand along the way. Who else in the world can understand what you are going through more than your fellow hippies?
Firstly, from what you describe I don't think that ths is normal. But secondly I don't thnk that it is a hardware problem, it sounds more muscular or ligament or tendon. But just incase, Ruby, book an appointment, go back to Mr T. You say you had less pain and more rom earlier on? You also say the pool is your pain free place. In the pool you are supported by the water, does moving in the pool hurt? I think you need physio urgently. Your best bet would be someone who will come into the pool with you for hydrotherapy. That s your pain free place so that should logically be the place to heal best.
In your situation whilst waiting to see mr T and waiting for GP physio I'd bite the bullet and pay for some sessions with a private physio. Find a good one and explain your symptoms before taking them on also find out if they do hydro work. I know it is expensive but this pain is crushing you. I'm sure it's fixable, you had the very best surgeon the vey best device. Hang in there, it's a rockier road for you.
Sal
X
Ps Ruby, I find lifting my leg off the bed very sore too. I can only manage a tiny height and it does make my groin hurt. Perhaps you've torn something in your exercises, perhaps it will heal if you rest it?
I'm busy doing Jono's exercises! Thanks!
Quote from: yingo on October 06, 2012, 07:35:03 PM
I think u missunderstood me...it may be because english is my second language and that may have led u to a wrong conclussion. I had my hip resurfacing just 2 weeks before u and for me the first 2 weeks was the most simillar to hell than i have been on earth..i was lucky just to have two weeks living in hell...so i can easily empathize with u and that is reason why i read this thread everyday...because i really hope u say one day that ur pain has just gone away...i just trying u to encourage to go on..i am still angry with the world for having this stupid hip so young...so i know u must be so angry that the op has not gone as expected...and this is the right place to complaint about it...When i had the operation i thought it was going to be easy as it is for some people. I am just sad for u...because ithin that u are very young aswell..anyway i wont post anything else...i didnt mean to upset u even more!!
Oh Yingo, I'm not upset at what you have said :) Please feel free to continue to post here. I am just having a really bad few days where i'm constantly thinking back to see if I have done something to my hip that I shouldn't and perhaps I should rest more, but I am only doing my exercises in the pool and gentle walking as I was told to do so I'm really not sure what is happening.
I am sorry if you felt I was venting because of you - that isn't the case, I am so thankful for your support and encouragement :)
Quote from: Spanielsal on October 07, 2012, 04:08:07 AM
Hi Ruby
You seem to be having a horrible time, sending you hugs.
As Yingo says, ths is your place to let go, no body is judging you we are here to hold our hand along the way. Who else in the world can understand what you are going through more than your fellow hippies?
Firstly, from what you describe I don't think that ths is normal. But secondly I don't thnk that it is a hardware problem, it sounds more muscular or ligament or tendon. But just incase, Ruby, book an appointment, go back to Mr T. You say you had less pain and more rom earlier on? You also say the pool is your pain free place. In the pool you are supported by the water, does moving in the pool hurt? I think you need physio urgently. Your best bet would be someone who will come into the pool with you for hydrotherapy. That s your pain free place so that should logically be the place to heal best.
In your situation whilst waiting to see mr T and waiting for GP physio I'd bite the bullet and pay for some sessions with a private physio. Find a good one and explain your symptoms before taking them on also find out if they do hydro work. I know it is expensive but this pain is crushing you. I'm sure it's fixable, you had the very best surgeon the vey best device. Hang in there, it's a rockier road for you.
Sal
X
The groin pain is definately worse now then it was a few weeks back. It only goes when i'm water so the pool is a haven for me! But yeah, I felt my ROM was better earlier on and it's only the severe groin pain that's preventing me moving forward.
Awwww Ruby, im gutted for you that things are not going as expected. That doesnt mean, however that things wont be ok in the end. Keep fighting.
I'd listen to Sal. Speak to Mr T. Dont worry about annoying him or pestering him. Its your health and im pretty sure he wont mind you asking. Also, try get some physio.
Keep your chin up x x x
Hi Ruby
So sorry to read of your pain. You've had a tough time of it before and after.
Hope you feel better after seeing your Doc.
Like it says under your picture- NEVER GIVE UP.
Thanks everyone. I'm sorry for moaning and whinging. I can't vent at home you see, I guess it all builds up and has to come out somewhere!
This is the place, ruby - we'll always get you here.
Let it all out Ruby I know what you mean about not letting it go at home. We all have our ups and downs but seems you are on a really bad down at the moment. Lets hope that means the only way is up. :). I would at least ring Mr Treacy though just to get reasurrance if nothing else.
Jas
Hi Ruby
I have been reading all the posts and am sorry that you are having such problems and pain. Normally, people don't have so many problems, but again - there is no normal because we all are different with different problems.
I hope you get back to Mr. Treacy and he can give you some idea of what to do to stop the pain. Water therapy is good as you have found.
I do know some people have taken a very long time to get back on the road to normal without pain and problems. Sounds like you are on that path - unfortunately.
I definitely would stay in touch with Treacy to make sure everything is OK and get input from him.
I am sorry for all you are going thru and will continue to keep you in my prayers and thoughts.
Pat
Hi Ruby - sorry I have not been keeping up with posts here but read the last few. If the water eases it there is a good bet it is probably muscular of some nature. The water is taking the weight off the muscles. Walking forwards, backwards and sidewards in water will be great excercise. Just take it nice and steady your hip muscles will be no where near full strength at 8 weeks and still healing. Don't know what excercises you have been doing but if you can, simply standing straight on one leg is good excercise, does this hurt? on the outside, front or inside of the groin.
Inside your muscles will still be 'raw' and probably will be for a while, mine were. Maybe one is complaining about your new pelvis/hip position because it was overtight previous, or it has been agravated in some way. Does icing and rest ease the pain? It can be frustrating but keep your chin up you will get there. Keep us informed what advice you are given.
Hi Ruby. It's easy for us to say but stick at it. It is obviously a very difficult time for you but I'm sure it is just your tight muscles trying to rearrange themselves and their movements. If activity in the pool helps then do loads of it even if you end up looking like a prune! Stretching the muscles back onto their new positions and lengths is the goal that will remove the pain. I have to say that my muscle pain disappeared over the period of a day or so when I upped the time I was spending on the bike stretching out the groin and hip flexors with each pedal rotation. We are all different though.
if you can't make contact with Mr T (I think he is away for 3 weeks at the moment from what his secretary said to me last week), then why not speak to his private secretary and have a chat over the phone with Christine his assistant (I'm seeing her next week) or ring the ROH and ask to speak to one of the physiotherapists there. It can't do any damage to talk to someone as they could give advice or reassurance. If you want the phone number of Mr T's private secretary, just PM me and I'll send it through to you.
With regards to the pain killers, have you tried Non steroidals such as Voltarol (diclofenac) rather than Oxocodone (or whatever it is). The codeine derivatives are powerful pain killers but have many other side effects whilst non steroidals relieve the pain and dampen down the muscle inflammation and it sounds as if your muscles are quite inflamed. You should take them after a meal though as they can upset your stomach. Worth a try?
Good luck and don't forget that we are here to listen and help get you through this.
Thanks everyone, you're all so kind!
I saw my GP this morning and he's not letting me return to work for at least another 4 weeks because of the groin issues.
With regards to the physio he said he's more than happy to refer me locally for some treatment but he wants me to take advice from Mr T first as there may be a very good reason why he didn't want me to have any. I spoke to Laura (his secretary) just now, explained everything to her and she's going to get someone to ring me from clinic tomorrow morning for a consultation rather than bring me up to Birmingham to see someone.
I've been taking Ibruprofen for the inflammation and keeping the Oxycodene for night time as getting comfy in bed is a bit of a nightmare right now :(
Hi Ruby - So sorry to hear that the groin pain is giving you such a miserable time. I can only echo what the other posts have said in terms of this being the place to express yourself freely and get advice and support from your friends. Glad to hear that you're going to have a telephone consultation tomorrow, hope this leads to something more positive for you.
I've been spending a lot of time in the water over the last few weeks and found that hydrotherapy has really helped with mobility and ease of doing my exercises, perhaps your GP can get you referred for some hydrotherapy if your consultant is ok with this. Ka
A lovely lady from the ROH called me first thing this morning, what a great hospital they are!! In a nutshell, I'm being sent for an urgent xray to see if the device has moved in anyway, it's unlikely she said, but they want to rule out the most serious issue first.
What the most likely reason is due to my very small sockets, there is a tendon that stretches across the pelvis (she did call it by name, but I forget) and it's probably very angry at me because it's been pulled, stretched and inflammed. She told me to stop swimming (:-() but keep walking at least until we know what's going on after the xray.
That should put your mind at rest. Good luck Ruby.
Those muscles certainly don't like being pulled in different directions! Shame about the swimming, but at least you can be more relaxed in the knowledge and maybe the physios at ROH can provide some exercise that will help with the specific muscle problem?
That's positive, ruby - the more you know, the better off you are. Sounds like a good call on the tendon.
Good news Ruby! Glad that your telephone consultation has resulted in some action to identify what's going on.
I feel a little relieved to have spoken to someone now. Just hope the xray shows nothing sinister.
Quote from: rubyred on October 10, 2012, 04:00:59 PM
I feel a little relieved to have spoken to someone now. Just hope the xray shows nothing sinister.
You'll be great. Think positive ..... and say "cheese" when they take the picture!
When is the xray Ruby??
I couldn't get booked in until the 20th October.
Urgent ????? What are they like?
Quote from: rubyred on October 10, 2012, 06:24:26 AM
A lovely lady from the ROH called me first thing this morning, what a great hospital they are!! In a nutshell, I'm being sent for an urgent xray to see if the device has moved in anyway, it's unlikely she said, but they want to rule out the most serious issue first.
What the most likely reason is due to my very small sockets, there is a tendon that stretches across the pelvis (she did call it by name, but I forget) and it's probably very angry at me because it's been pulled, stretched and inflammed. She told me to stop swimming (:-() but keep walking at least until we know what's going on after the xray.
Rectus femoris tendon? This awkward thing hates all hip surgery with a vengeance and misbehaves at the first opportunity it gets - mine is still playing up nearly five months post hip scope!! Its gonna be this, I'm sure... Least you the xray will give you peace of mind and you should get the results straight away.!
Quote from: dav0 on October 11, 2012, 04:39:51 PM
Rectus femoris tendon? This awkward thing hates all hip surgery with a vengeance and misbehaves at the first opportunity it gets - mine is still playing up nearly five months post hip scope!! Its gonna be this, I'm sure... Least you the xray will give you peace of mind and you should get the results straight away.!
That sounds about right actually... I only know of the Psoas muscle and she definately didn't say that. If this is what it turns out to be, I take it there's no solution to it, given that yours is still sore 5 months on?
It's a really hateful tendon, in my experience. Any kind of hip surgery really aggravates it and causes it to tighten up, but simply stretching it doesn't solve the problem either. When it tight and angry it inhibits the glutes and becomes the primary mover in pulling your leg forward during walking, hence it is overworked and hurts. Does it hurt to put your leg into extension (as in behind you?)
I hate to say it, but i think strengthening glutes - the antagonists to it - is the only real way of sorting it. I had cortisone in mine but it did naff all and cost me ££, so i wouldn't recommend it!! It will come right though in the fullness of time, so don't panic!!
It doesn't hurt to extend it behind me, but to lift it and extend it forwards is the killer. Funnily enough I get no aggravation when walking, but climbing stairs, getting in and out of cars... anywhere where I have to lift the leg in an upwards motion is enough to double me over in pain.
Stairs are the one thing that if I do too much of buggers me up. Which in a hotel with 10 different landings over 5 floors and a lift which is only level with 3 of them is a bit of an occupational hazzard. It has always been my worst movement lifting leg up forwards.
I'm off to A&E this afternoon. I can't take no more of this. I can't weight bear now :(
Hi Ruby,
You have taken steps to see Treacy and get an Xray. These should hopefully eliminate the the device as a problem.
Next step is getting the source of the pain. A therapist may help on this, try and see the physios at ROH.
Then figure out what is causing the pain, could be poor posture/ muscle imbalance.Then work out what excercises and stretches etc to remedy the problem.
If the device is in correctly which I am sure it is, the problem is soft tissue. Soft tissue can be extremely painful but in most cases can be rectified. To me it sounds like a flexor issue. Davo said stretching will probably not help much when a muscle/tendon is angry and that the opposing muscle needs working (antagonist). This is where to start I reckon if one muscle is tight and sore the antagonist is normally weak.
If you can excercise the glutes with out pain - then work on this it is a good place to start. The 'Bridge' for the glute max, 'clamshells', 'side leg lifts' for the glute med. This can only help and are all excercises lying down.
Next I remember you saying you had a tight psoas, this is a very important hip flexor. This muscle attaches to the lumbar (lower) spine and hinges over the hip capsule/pelvis and attaches to the inside top of the femur. If this is tight/tendonisis or bursa it can cause all sorts of problems with an anterior (forward) tilted pelvis and too much curvature of the lumbar spine leading to poor posture. All of this with time will have a knock on affect and strain other muscles. Psoas release excercise (lying down :) ) is probably where to start here eventually leading to flexor stretching.
TBH if you have suffered with a limp for a while, there is a good bet there are muscle imbalances and less than optimum posture which leads to over stressed musles. It can be difficult to address and this is where a good physio (I stess the good here) may help to identify issues. Probably working on posture lierally from head to toe.
One step at a time though, just IMO I would do the following:
1/ See Treacy
2/ possibly Physio or similar professional.
3/ Ice
4/ If you can glute excercises, psoas release etc.
5/ Then later Flexor stretches, Core muscles (Pilates), overall posture correction excercises.
Quote from: morph on October 13, 2012, 07:57:25 AM
Hi Ruby,
You have taken steps to see Treacy and get an Xray. These should hopefully eliminate the the device as a problem.
Next step is getting the source of the pain. A therapist may help on this, try and see the physios at ROH.
Then figure out what is causing the pain, could be poor posture/ muscle imbalance.Then work out what excercises and stretches etc to remedy the problem.
If the device is in correctly which I am sure it is, the problem is soft tissue. Soft tissue can be extremely painful but in most cases can be rectified. To me it sounds like a flexor issue. Davo said stretching will probably not help much when a muscle/tendon is angry and that the opposing muscle needs working (antagonist). This is where to start I reckon if one muscle is tight and sore the antagonist is normally weak.
If you can excercise the glutes with out pain - then work on this it is a good place to start. The 'Bridge' for the glute max, 'clamshells', 'side leg lifts' for the glute med. This can only help and are all excercises lying down.
Next I remember you saying you had a tight psoas, this is a very important hip flexor. This muscle attaches to the lumbar (lower) spine and hinges over the hip capsule/pelvis and attaches to the inside top of the femur. If this is tight/tendonisis or bursa it can cause all sorts of problems with an anterior (forward) tilted pelvis and too much curvature of the lumbar spine leading to poor posture. All of this with time will have a knock on affect and strain other muscles. Psoas release excercise (lying down :) ) is probably where to start here eventually leading to flexor stretching.
TBH if you have suffered with a limp for a while, there is a good bet there are muscle imbalances and less than optimum posture which leads to over stressed musles. It can be difficult to address and this is where a good physio (I stess the good here) may help to identify issues. Probably working on posture lierally from head to toe.
One step at a time though, just IMO I would do the following:
1/ See Treacy
2/ possibly Physio or similar professional.
3/ Ice
4/ If you can glute excercises, psoas release etc.
5/ Then later Flexor stretches, Core muscles (Pilates), overall posture correction excercises.
Thanks Morph :)
I had problems with my Psoas before the op, naively I thought this would right itself once I had the surgery... I think i've made it more angry! I've been limping too for about 3+ years... I can't seem to stop even though now I don't have pain when I walk!
I spent 5 hours in A&E last night, after 2 xrays, a set of blood tests and almost having to be admitted to the Post Op Ward, I got to speak with a very well informed Ortho doctor who worked at Stanmore Orthopaedic Hospital in London who knows all about resurfacing. He took a look at the xray and said the device was fine, in perfect position (not that I doubted Mr T, but it's nice to have the reassurance) and i'm looking at muscle damage and weakness.
In his opinion there has been a huge gap in my aftercare and that I was probably released from hospital too early. I need intense physio to get my thigh muscles strong seeing as I can't lift my leg at all, but they can't really do much down here with out Mr T's say so.
So, plan of action for the weekend is rest, back to basics with the exercises, ice, meds and get on the phone to the ROH Monday morning for an appointment with Mr T as soon as possible. The positive thing about all of this is at least I don't have to wait until 20th October for an xray!
I want to thank everyone that's taken the time to write me words of help and encouragement. You've no idea how much I appreciate you all.
Hey ruby, that's great news!
Don't forget that you are looking at correcting three years of dysfunction and faulty movement patterns, and I think morph is spot on with his post about the importance of core excersises for lumbo-pelvic stability as a starting point. It is ball aching and hard work and often seems for little benefit, but over time you will notice the difference, which feels subtle but is in fact massive.
A GOOD physio is key - they are not all born equal - and there is a lot of hard work to be done, but you will get there! I have to say that in my experience, the NHS ones are pretty clueless and generally new and inexperienced, though this sweeping statement might be a little unfair!
Take care,
dav0
Good news, ruby. Like dav0 says, good PT is what you're after. I think your steps are right, get back to the regular exercises, ice, etc. It's important to let Mr. T know where you are and what you can do next.
Hurrah, the device is ok! That is the very best news. Now to correct the muscle problems, which is a whole lot better than more surgery although still hard work. Plug away at it Ruby. X
Well ruby now you know that you will get there it will take time but thanks to your device being perfectly placed you will get there!
think you did best thing going to A&E as least now you have reassurance everything ok....waiting until 20/10 was crazy, take it easy now and give yourself time, we all heal at different rates x
Back to basics, way to go. I would not worry about not being ale to tie your shoelaces yet, that will come. I was still walking with a pain free limp at about 12 weeks, still do very very slightly when tired. This was down to a weak glute medius muscle which gets hit hard during surgey, maybe a mental thing too. My advice would be walk slow and steady, not overstriding and in all your excercises concentrating on form down to the smallest detail!!!! Enjoy your restfull weekend.
Great news Ruby. Back to basics is a good thing, better than me I had to go beyond that with non weight bearing so get in there girl do them excercises and when it plays up give it a couple of days to settle down then get going again.
Jas
You will get through this Ruby. At least now you know that that the device is ok. I think that's everyone's biggest concern. It will take a bit longer than you want but you will get there. Take care and hope you get targeted physio to help you strengthen and sort out the pain.
I had a psoas sprain at 22 weeks and I thought I'd broken it! (see my thread for details) It took a month or so to sort itself out but was absolutely fine in the end.
G
Hi Gary,
Just read your thread. That is interesting that you sprained it using the abduction machine. I never liked machines they always seem to have a restrictive forced movement.
Just out of interest, if you can remember what kind of pain and where exactly did your injury hurt? Did you get any pain in the lower back.
A while back I got a twinge/ping that seemed to be on the outside of my pelvis of my natural hip whilst lifting my daughter. The main pain was just to the right of my lower back and kind of went across the illiac crest and hurt when bending over and was tender to touch. Also there was a dull very uncomfortable ache deep in the inside groin area when just sitting or standing. No pain with hip flexion or abduction.
The first thing I thought was the psoas, it seems to be the culprit for so many issues. Still don't know but now I am fairly sure it was the SI joint/ligament that was damaged and the hip pain was just referred pain.
Did the hot cold thing, plenty of lying on the back and back stretches and hip stretches which helped.
Just wondered exactly what symptoms you got and what you did to relieve/cure them?
Like you Ruby before my op my psoas and my piriformis on my OA hip were tight. Also my lower back needed improved flexibilty among other things. Things have improved tremendously but there is still work to be done. Still do not have the flexibilty in my left leg to stretch the piriformis and glute, but getting there slowly but surely.
What did Mr T say Ruby?????
Thanks for your imput Gary, I will definately go and check out your thread!
I went back to see Mr Treacy today and thankfully I got to see him personally. He confirmed that the device is fine and it's my Psoas that's causing the bother, probably due to my wonky pelvis.
He's referring me for course of Hydrotherapy and he wants me to call his secretary in 4-6 weeks to update him and if i'm still having pain he will arrange for me to have an injection into the psoas muscle itself. If I still don't get any relief from that then he mentioned a surgery where he can cut away the tendons or something to relieve the pressure but he doesn't like performing that as it's better to keep as much strength in the leg as possible.
Oh, and i'm to go back onto the crutches for around 3 weeks as he doesn't like that i'm walking unaided whilst i'm still limping.
YIPPEEEE!!! Thats good news. Sounds like its all fixable which is great. It may be a little rubbish going back on your crutches but it will be all worth it in the end. Your recovery will just be a little slower .... but everyting will be fine eventually :)
Good news Ruby! Muscle issues you can work out, as Gary pointed out; good that Mr. T is on the case.
Good news Ruby and 3 weeks back on crutches is nothing in the big scheme of things. At least you know it is nothing major.
Jas
Great news Ruby. Hopefully you will get some relief from the hydrotherapy
That is fantastic news Ruby. Now that your anxieties are over the next step is to put everything into getting that psoas sorted out with the help of all the physio exercises and the hydro-therapy.
In the article by Dr Su posted by John C, there is a bit about the Psoas and how it is stretched during surgery and to avoid striaght leg lifts for a while after surgery.
Quote from: morph on October 18, 2012, 07:02:50 AM
In the article by Dr Su posted by John C, there is a bit about the Psoas and how it is stretched during surgery and to avoid striaght leg lifts for a while after surgery.
That is a nice article Morph. I found that I just couldn't do straight leg raises post operatively but my physio suggested engaging the quads first and then I could do the straight leg raise to swing my legs off the bed. It was a great little tip from the physio.
Morph - where did you have your operation with Mr Holland? Is he based at the RVI or North Tyneside/Wansbeck? My daughter is due to orthopaedics on her rotation as a junior doc at North Tyneside this year and is not looking forward to it!
Seems like its gonna be a bit of a longer haul to recovery, Ruby.
It's so good to know that its 'only' a muscular thing. From the many recovery stories I've read on here, I think many people have serious doubts or thoughts about their resurfacing device at some point and even knowing you've received treatment from one of the elite group of surgeons isn't always enough to not have doubt in your mind.
I've read a lot of replies from Pat about the importance that no two recoveries are the same and that's stopped me dwelling too much about still using a cane at over three months post op.
Dig in, Ruby, you can and will get there. Mike.
lycraman - I had mine done privately at Nuffield, I live in Edinburgh so had to travel but I am from the the NorthEast so could stay with my folks for a couple of weeks, my wife was heavily pregnant with our twin girls at the time too so it has all been a bit crazy. They were born exactly 4 weeks after my op (6 weeks early).
Mr Holland also does NHS at the Royal Victoria and Freemans too I think.
Quote from: morph on October 18, 2012, 04:05:52 PM
my wife was heavily pregnant with our twin girls at the time too so it has all been a bit crazy. They were born exactly 4 weeks after my op (6 weeks early).
Wow Morph!! Brave man. No wonder your poor wife decided to give birth early! Hope it all went well. I know my second was born whist I was flat out recovering from a slipped disc. Expect your restricted mobility will have been a good excuse to avoid the early hours feeding (x2)
In reply to morph, it was pretty much localised in the psoas region, I don't recall any low back pain. The pain was brought on by repeating the motion that caused it, raising the leg to the front felt weak. I used to stretch the muscle by rolling over a hard rubber ball, also using a foam roller on the quad, this is extremely uncomfortable and good for cultivating an attitude of 'grim determination'.
G
Hi everyone,
It's been some time since I logged in. I'm still dealing with the Psoas pain and it's showing no signs of going anywhere :( Is this a normal part of recovery? To still be in this much pain almost 3 months post op?
I'm not due to start my hydrotherapy until the 27th November, but in the meantime I still try to swim twice a week and attend a weekly yoga class.
I can see myself heading back to the ROH for these cortisone injections before the year is out.....
Your still very very early on ruby. I was very discouraged at that stage as my recovery was slower than some of the guys on here. But everyone is different. Get into a swimming pool and just work on movement and strengthening before your hydro starts
You might be overdoing it with yoga at 3 months; why not do your stretches in the water instead of swimming, which is repetetive so might actually shorten the muscle. That's all hydrotherapy is really. I'd leave out the cortisone because it does weaken bone stock. Static cycling was good for me, and walking, lots of walking followed by ice.
I'd say whatever you get is normal, it's just the aftermath of surgical trauma and how your body responds to it, scar tissue forms and has to be broken down again, then repeat. But if your device has been correctly fitted - and an x-ray will show that clearly - you will recover. Can take 18 months - 2 years before you feel completely normal.
The psoas is a bastard!
G
I echo what Gary says ruby we know your device is in perfectly (would you expect anything else from Mr T!) I remember going in for one appointment at around 2 months and Christine saw me in thewaiting room and the way I was hobbling she confessed to me after viewing my xray that she thought from the obvious pain i was in and the way I was hardly able to walk that she thought I'd broken something! Everyone heals differently. I was readmitted to hospital for a short time in the first 2 weeks cos I was in such rag order!
How often are you icing?
I have to admit, I've not been icing so much lately. I've slipped up with doing it.
I went to see my chiropractor today, he's a bit of a master with the Psoas, and he only had to lightly touch my leg and he said it was the worst Psoas he's seen this year, it's rock solid. Much worse than when he last saw me.
The good news is he said it won't be permanant, but it will take a lot of work to get back to normal. He's advised me against the cortisone injections also, just heat for 15mins at a time, lots of gentle swimming and deep tissue massage on the groin.
Oh the joys of dodgy hips!
On the bright side, its fixable Ruby! At least you know the BHR is perfect :)
You will get there x
Ruby try and ice a lot more if it's inflamed that will help take the swelling out of it.
Hey Ruby... as usual good advice from Anna and Danny. Muscular issues are a pain, but they can be treated. I had psoas issues also, eventually they will go away if you work on them gently.
Your Chiropractor seems to have a good handle on it, gentle work will get that hard muscle to loosen up on you.
Hi everyone,
Apologies for not being as active on here. Been feeling quite depressed about it all and to top it off I returned to work for one day last week and came down with laryngitis!!!
I've decided to go ahead, at least for now, with some chiropractic treatment to work on the Psoas rather than go down the injections route. Not that I doubt Mr T, but if I can avoid a huge needle being injected into my groin, then I will!
Good to see you back Ruby you had me worried. Hope it all goes well. I was tempted to comment on injections in your groin but dodged the "Carry on Hippy" double entendre.
Jas ::)
You know Jase, as soon as I had posted my reply I thought what I had typed sounded full of inuendo, but I thought i'd just leave it... we're all adults here lol!
Hey ruby, no worries about taking time, we all have healed differently and had challenges; glad to hear from you, though.
I know it's muscular and not the hip, but still painful. I'm sure the chiropractic approach will help, is there also a physical therapist who knows the exercises and stretches to deal with psoas pain available to you?
Well i'm still waiting on the hydrotherapy, but my chiropractor did recommend me asking my GP for a referral for some physiotherapy also aswell as his work and the hydrotherapy. I'm hoping everything combined will loosen things up.
;) Must have my naughty head on today. Don't get too loose.
Hi everyone,
I've not been on here regularly of late. Lots to be dealing and coming to terms with. My muscle damage has spread to my hip flexors and I'm needing both intensive physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and chiropractic work.
I may have a shiny new hip, but it's pretty much useless right now as i'm unable to use it correctly. Very down in the dumps and i'm wondering if this BHR was really worth all this.
It will all be worth it in the end. Just got to be patient I am sure you will be fine soon. After all you are only a youngster and your body will heal itself in time. Look at me Old git at 46 and I mended myself.(well I think I have).
I get my fare share of muscle discomfort as well. Nice to see you back on here.
Right off to the bank now then the cash and carry then I think I will pop home for a quick shag then back to work.
I wonder which one of those things is least likely to happen?
Keep smiling littlun
Jas.
It'll be worth it in the end Ruby, keep at it, little steps in the right direction
Back from the bank and cash and carry 2 out of 3
Hey ruby, nice to hear from you. Several folks here have had a hard time of it with psoas issues, they eventually worked out. I think that will happen for you; thinking good thoughts.
Thanks guys for your endless support. I truly don't know who I would turn to if it wasn't for everyone I've met on here.
I think I'm at the stage where I don't know what's normal and to be expected now. I'm only just back at work and even that I'm finding a struggle but I had to return as my sick pay was running out. They're being good with me though, got me doing very light duties until about February.
I haven't contacted Mr Treacy anymore, or at least not yet. I'm going to give the Chiropractor, physio and hydrotherapy a chance to do some work and then see where i'm at, but truly this Psoas is a pig. I've never experienced such a sharp, catching pain as this - even before surgery and that's saying something!
The good thing is that I can at least walk now without pain, but i'm still unable to cycle, drive, bend over or get in and out of bed on my own.
I cannot stress enough the importance of having PT as soon as is possible following this surgery. The whole reason i'm in this state is due to the lack of physiotherapy. I'm due to start mine very soon, but about 2 months too late, the damage is done. It's not irreversible but who knows how long it will take to get me back up to speed.
I was thinking of supplementing more to see if that will help. I've read about Vitamin D, Omega 3 and MSM, but there's so much information regarding supplements it's all a bit overwhelming :o Does anyone have any recommendations? I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake too as I've read that that is linked to inflammation.
And lastly, sorry you only got 2 out of 3 things done today, Jason! If it's any consolation i've not had any for months!!
Ruby
Ruby,
Sorry to hear what your going through. If its any consolation, the psoas and hip flexors (rectus femoris) are utter, utter bastards when it comes to any hip surgery. Six months on from a hip arthroscopy, I am still having issues with mine, so please appreciate that this is a marathon, not a sprint...
Core strength and recruitment is key to taking the load of them and preventing their dominance, which in turn causes all the pain. Its a slow process trying to build it, but it does work, just keep on plugging away!!
Hang on in there, it will get better!!
Davo
Many doctors do not require any kind of PT following surgery, even months post-op unless you run into an issue. Dr. Gross gives his patients exercises that specifically help the muscle groups that were cut or stretched during the surgery, then his part II excercise further help his patients recover their ROM and strength.
Dr. Gross feels that some PTs will cause damage rather than help and we've had patients post of this for where it's happened. Dr. Gross has always said walking is the best excercise you can do to help you recover. When I went in for my 6 month local checkup with a PT who was supposed to report to Dr. Gross the therapist pushed it too far with me and acutally set my recovery back a week or so.
So in the end, yes, you have to have a therapist who is well versed in hip resurfacing and you are having issues IMHO I say go for it, but you won't find many Dr. Gross patients who used PTs, we might have some who will possibly speak up on this thread.
You'll get back to normal, it may take some time but you're going to be ok.
Chuck
Quote from: rubyred on November 30, 2012, 06:13:12 PM
I cannot stress enough the importance of having PT as soon as is possible following this surgery. The whole reason i'm in this state is due to the lack of physiotherapy. I'm due to start mine very soon, but about 2 months too late, the damage is done. It's not irreversible but who knows how long it will take to get me back up to speed.
I personally don't like physio's(never had a good one!) and I suspect lots of surgeons have had good work undone by over zealous PT. Personally I rate proper deep tissue massage far higher than PT.
All I'll say to that is walking did nothing but help get me moving. Didn't help my ROM or my muscle strength. I was told to stop my exercises I was discharged with at 6 weeks and to walk/cycle/swim only which I did regularly and now I'm pretty much back to square one. In fact I could do more before surgery. I can't even drive my automatic car!
No PT or the like may work for some, and I'm sure it does, but more complex cases, like mine was from the beginning, need more work done and sooner than 16 weeks post op.
Will I be alright? Who knows to be honest. I don't. I've given up searching for a miracle. I'm doing what i'm told and have gone right back to basics on the advice of PT's down here. Other than that I'm praying every night that I can have my life back.
Im praying for you ruby xx
I'm pulling for you ruby....
Cheers guys.
I may be absent from here for awhile. My mood isn't the best and this is a forum for positivity which I cannot provide currently. A couple of members have my number so feel free to stay in touch that way.
Adios x
My thoughts on Physiotherapy-it works for me.
A few years back when I was playing squash regularly I pulled something in my upper arm when trying to smash the ball through the wall. After a few weeks off it still hurt and I went to see a physio who gave me a couple of sessions of accupuncture.
Two weeks later, it was gone for good.
With my recent THR, I've only had two sessions so far - the first was a massage front and back of my thigh, then last week, some gentle Gym work-four different sets of floor exercises and a very short session on a machine that put resistance against the inner then outer thigh. Nothing too strenuous at all but I've felt more strength through my leg since the last session so I can say for me it's definately working.
I should add that these sessions are are at a local college so I'm under the care of a trainee therapist. He's a second year student and is under constant supervision from his tutor-he has to run everything by him first.
I was ultra wary when a friend told me about it but its very well run and there's no way I'd do anything that didn't feel right, whoever the instructor was.
I can see the other view though-anyone who's had a bad experience from an over enthusiastic physio would avoid it like the plague-me too!
Ruby- my thoughts are with you as well-don't disappear from here for too long, I hope when you're back things have improved-good luck.
Thanks Mike, i'm sure i'll be on here as and when my emotions allow!
It's funny you mentioning acupuncture... my chiropractor swears by it, but that everyone reacts to it differently. Thinking of asking him to give it a go on me. I've not much to lose!
Ruby,
Don't stay away, problems like you are having and how you are feeling are why this forum is here. You will find many a patient who has run into a bump in the road but I've seen so many of them bounce back and many of them have disapeared probably for good, some have stayed and those are the ones that you can lean on.
You have lot's of people that care about you right here, no reason not to post, if you got emm post emmm.
Chuck
Ruby
Please don't feel that you have to leave because you are having problems. That is what this group is for. You have had a bad experience and you need a place to be able to talk and vent.
Please stay around or stop in when ever you can. This is your spot to post - positive or negative, it is your story and your health and your body. We are here to support you.
Good Luck. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Pat
I think you are doing the right thing with a 3 pronged attack, Physio, Chiropractor and hydro therapy to correct the muscles which are out of kilter. The source of the problem may not be the psoas, but the psoas is taking the brunt of the pain, probably by being overtight and overworked. The psoas's main job is to act like a pulley system over the hip/pelvis (the leg and the back at either end) to keep the body upright, not that much for movement. Weak muscles else where could be placing a large burden on this muscle to do the job. The problem can be tricky to resolve by yourself but relatively easy with a good specialist who understands how all the muscles work together with good posture. Walking is excellent (probably the best) excercise but if not done correctly could exasperate the problem.
Follow the specialists instruction but for example:
Firstly if it is overworked it probably needs resting and releasing. Google psoas release.
Secondly surrounding muscles need to be strengthened, especially glute max(bridge etc), glute med (side leg lift etc) these two take a big hit during surgery and transverse abs (plank etc) - suppports back and helps to shift pelvis into correct alignement along with pelvic floor.
Thirdly, hip flexor (psoas stretches)
Last but not least lower back stretches.
Keep posting Ruby. Everyone here is wanting to help and listen.
Thanks everyone. I was truly having an awful weekend and everything just kind of spilled out here. Luckily today i'm feeling a little better mentally, but physically just the same.
I was doing my exercises this morning and they're pretty much the same as the basic ones we get given by the PT's in hospital but just with a few extras thrown in. I'm trying to do them, but just a simple move like raising my leg a few millimetres off the bed or floor is virtually impossible. Very frustrating.
Hey ruby, this is the place to spill - we're not just for light and happy - we're full service supporters ;D.
Hopefully as you get stronger and your other muscles can support the hip, the psoas will get less irritated with the whole thing.
Everyone keeps talking about this psoas and flexors???
I get discomfort at the front toppie bit of my leg when I do lots of stairs or too much fast walking and I get a bruised feeling down the outside bit near the top, sort of near the top of my trouser pocket line.
Whats that?? Or am I being too technical? ;D
Quote from: Jason0411 on December 04, 2012, 10:21:05 AM
Everyone keeps talking about this psoas and flexors???
I get discomfort at the front toppie bit of my leg when I do lots of stairs or too much fast walking and I get a bruised feeling down the outside bit near the top, sort of near the top of my trouser pocket line.
Whats that?? Or am I being too technical? ;D
The hip flexors are actually three muscles : the rector femoris, the psoas major and the illiacus (see attached picture)
As this site explains it: http://www.sports-injury-info.com/hip-flexor-injury.html (http://www.sports-injury-info.com/hip-flexor-injury.html)
"The most common cause of hip flexor injury is acute trauma. You may experience one specific instance when you felt your hip flexor pull. This may have been when you broke into a sprint, made a cut, or kicked a ball.
Tight muscles and poor flexibility will contribute to hip flexor injury. When muscles are tight, there is an increased amount of tension on the tissues. When this increased tension is added to by an explosive movement, injury can occur.
Hip flexor strain can also be caused by compensation for other injuries, or weakness of other muscles. This is common if you have core weakness.
When the lower abdominal muscles do not stabilize the pelvis, the hip flexor muscles will try to compensate for this weakness and become overworked. Symptoms
The most common symptom of a hip flexor strain is pain. It occurs along the front of the hip and may radiate down the front of your thigh. Your pain will increase with movement, especially trying to lift your knee toward your chest.
Running, jumping, and even walking can be painful, and your sports performance may be limited.
You may have a small amount of swelling, but this is not very common. Muscle spasm and bruising may also occur, depending on how severe the injury is."
It's a critical group for us, since in our recovery, at first as the bone heals and the capsule heals, we have weakness that has to be compensated for. If the core muscles are not providing enough backup, the flexors have to take over stabilizing the hip, which may cause problems.
The outside of the thigh may be another set of muscles entirely, the IT band, which I find is addressed by using a foam roller to knead the IT band into place. I think (not a medical person here) that all of it comes from the challenges we have in stabilizing the hip as we heal. I've had IT band issues and flexor issues at different times, not bad, but bad enough to get what ruby's facing.
Very well put Hern, you said it much better than I could.
I had a 30 minute chiropratic session this morning. The good news is that although he worked me hard and I'm feeling awful now, on some points along the thigh it wasn't as painful as it was when he first started so I'm thinking that improvement is starting. And I can actually lift my leg 5cm off the floor now compared to 0cm when we first began.
Embrace the small victories I guess! Tonight though I feel like i've been beaten up :o
Just like with any large overwhelming problem, ruby - the solution is always to chop it up and defeat it piecemeal.
If you contemplate the whole thing, despair looms, but when taking the little victories, eventually your momentum can't be overcome. Great news about the little victory, sometimes the beaten up is lightened by the progress.
Ruby go and see a really good myofacial release massage therapist. Get them to do a mix of ART and myofacial stuff on you and I'd wager that you'll improve.
Danny
Sounds like things are starting to happen Ruby little by little you will get there. Before you know it you will be able to bite your toenails.
Jas
I hope so Jas :)
The lovely Anna sent me a gift before she flew off on holiday. She sent me a lovely lavender scented heat pack :) Bless her cottons!
Update
I'm now 4 weeks into my twice weekly Chiropractor treatment and I've gone from not being able to lift my leg off the floor at all, to being able to lift it 15cm. The treatment isn't always pleasant and my lower stomach is covered in bruises on the left side where he's working on my psoas, but I feel very positive on where we're going.
On the downside, I'm STILL waiting for my hydrotherapy. The hospital I work for truly is crap.
YIPPEEE! Thats great news that things are finally improving Ruby. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
Rubbish on the hydrotherapy though, but thats the NHS for you. I will have been waiting for my THR now for a whole year in feb. Still havent got a clue whats going on. Its times ike these you wish you had taken out the private healthcare!!! Hope you et you therapy soon x x
Sounds like you're turning that corner, ruby - real progress. Excellent!
Thats good to read Ruby, you're well overdue some progress. I hope 2013 is a better year for you.
You too, Anna. Keep plugging away at the NHS until you get what you want.
Hows your hip Mike??
Quote from: Anna on December 14, 2012, 06:36:10 PM
YIPPEEE! Thats great news that things are finally improving Ruby. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
Rubbish on the hydrotherapy though, but thats the NHS for you. I will have been waiting for my THR now for a whole year in feb. Still havent got a clue whats going on. Its times ike these you wish you had taken out the private healthcare!!! Hope you et you therapy soon x x
Believe me that private healthcare isn't all it's cracked up to be either. It comes down the the particular surgeon - if he's crap then it will be a crap service whether it be funded or private.
I have days, like this weekend, where I feel like my lower body has been put back together wrong. The slightest step aches and getting out of a bed is a mission. I do wonder if there's ever an end to all of this. When I read stories of people being able to tie their shoes at 8 weeks - i'm at 20 weeks and still need help getting dressed.
I really hope no one goes through the amount of Psoas issues I have. This is most definately worse than any Dysplasia pain.
But you are on the way back Ruby so chin up girl and keep going. Trouble is as I know physical set backs can have a disproportionate effect on our mental state. But you are finally moving in the right direction. ;)
Quote from: Anna on December 15, 2012, 06:26:37 PM
Hows your hip Mike??
Its going great Anna, I'm doing some physio at York College and its making quite a difference.
I was using my cane up to two weeks ago for walking any distance but since the physio I don't need it.
I feel so grateful to Mr Treacy and very fortunate to have not had any setbacks.
Ruby has been through hell, Jas has had a real scare just to name two, so I'm happy.
Fingers crossed for some positive news for you.
Hi all,
It's been awhile since I've posted anywhere. There really hasn't been much improvement with my Psoas - it really hates me it seems.
My ROM has gotten slightly better. I'm up to lifting my leg 26cm off the floor but the pain is just as bad as it was 4 months ago. Slightly worrying.
I'm still awaiting my hydrotherapy, but that starts on the 7th. I'm hoping to get some relief soon. This is starting to really annoy me now. I definately didn't sign up to this post-op. There has even been talk at work of deploying me elsewhere if I can't resume my regular duties within a reasonable time frame. Great. Something else to stress over.
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year and I hope to bring some more positive news soon.
I hope for a great new year for you ruby - and that the therapy and work you're doing will pay off.
Hi Ruby, I can only imagine how miserable a time you're having-you've had so many setbacks on your recovery.
Lets hope the hydrotherapy works well for you.
Whatever occurs, I hope you can still find the will to post on here, even if there's little to tell.
When you finally get right, yours will be a great story for future hippies to read. I think a lot of people will find the strength to carry on if they are struggling when they read what you've been through.
Stay strong Ruby, Mike.
Keep ya chin up Ruby! ... and good luck for tomorrow ;D
Quote from: Anna on January 08, 2013, 04:43:13 PM
Keep ya chin up Ruby! ... and good luck for tomorrow ;D
Thanks Anna! I'm soooo scared about tonight!!!
And thanks to you all too. It's been a hard slog that's for sure, I hope that when I'm better I can do a post about my story from start to finish and all the highs and lows inbetween to help others who's recovery isn't as straight forward as we'd all like :)
Hi everyone,
A very little update in my hip's status...
I'm about to do my 3rd hydrotherapy session tomorrow and since the first one, my hip has never felt worse. I only get 6 sessions on the NHS, which is probably just as well. I've also stopped seeing any improvement with the chiropractor. We've been battling at this psoas issue for over 2 months solid now and i'm still no where close to being able to get into the drivers side of my car, put my socks on or even shave my damn legs!
I've contacted Mr Treacy's office and requested an appointment in light of what's happening, or not happening in my case. He's back off holiday this week, so i'm hoping to get an appointment soon.
Ruby
What a nightmare Ruby. Is the Hydro making it worse before it gets better maybe?
Lets hope so. It must be so upsetting and annoying for you. You went to the top man but don't seem to have got a top result. Keep plugging away at the exercise and lets hope there is something else that can be done to help you.
Jas
It's fast becoming a bit of a nightmare Jas. There's only so long that you can be optimistic for before you start to wonder if the light at the end of the tunnel will ever appear.
I do believe that I went to the best surgeon and certainly do not blame Mr T for any of this, I just think my body was under a lot of stress for years before he could work his magic and it's going to take a long, long while before I'll feel fully normal.
It's crazy though as I don't want to run marathons or do any high intensity exercise.... just being able to drive and put on my socks will suffice! And i've just started to date someone, so lets not even go into how this is going to interfere with that area of my life... if you know what I mean!!
Ruby
That truly sucks, ruby. The psoas is tricky to deal with, since it's woven from the lower back to the front (hips and groin).
I searched for some light exercises that might help. I know you have been doing exercises, maybe these less intensive ones may help.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/415079-exercises-to-release-the-psoas/ (http://www.livestrong.com/article/415079-exercises-to-release-the-psoas/)
The problem with the psoas / iliacus is that it is not easy to get at them. Some folks have had success with rolling a tennis ball on the inside of the groin muscle, some with using the roller on the hips lying face down, rolling over just below the hip bone protrusions.
Inflamation is a problem there along with the maladjustment that we all probably had when dealing with the OA.
I hope this turns for you ruby. Maybe you can ask Mr. T for someone who is a specialist at this (sports medicine, etc. - runners sometimes have to deal with this).
Good exercise suggestions Hern.
I haven't read back far enough to see... but it would stand to reason there is significant inflammation with this psoas issue.
Forgive a stupid question: have you given a quality long acting NSAID like Celebrex a try to settle down the inflammation?
For me, it has been a wonder drug in both of my BHR recoveries.
Hi Ruby- did you mention a while ago that Mr Treacy said he could perform a procedure to put a small cut in your psoas to releive the pain?
If so, is this still an option for you?
It must feel like you'll never get sorted out with what you've had going on- you will get to the bottom of the problem, Ruby.
Stay strong and keep beleiving, Mike.
Thanks for those exercises, Hern. I'll definately give them a go. I'm still awaiting a call from Mr T's secretary about an appointment, she said he was due back off holiday last week but had a mountain of paperwork to sort through. I'll chase it up again this week.
Baby Barista - My local GP has prescribed me all sort of pain relief over the last few months. The latest has been Amatriptiline which is more of a muscle relaxant so that I can sleep, but to be honest it does nothing for the pain really. At the moment i'm not really taking anything other than the odd Ibruprofen.
Mike - Yes, Mr T did mention a procedure he could perform where he releases the muscle but he's always reluctant to perform it as he wants to keep as much strength in the leg as possible. He also mentioned some cortisone injections when I last saw him in October. I think that's the route i'm looking at now.
Ruby