Leg Length Differences

[motherof4]

HI

Have had my surgery on nov 21st.  Surgeon seemed happy with results.  I do notice a leg length difference (resulting in my hip feeling higher that the other) and I feel pressure in my operated hip as if something is being forced into place.  I wonder if anyone else has experienced these sensations?

My physio says that there is so much going on with bone, muscel realignment after surgery that it's probably not unusual.

I'm so hoping for positive results and am keeping my fingers crossed.

motherof 4

[Pat Walter]

Hi
Congratulations on your surgery.

Many, many people feel their operated leg is too long. Some have gone to great lengths to measure it, etc.  Of all the stories I have read, I don't believe one of those people ever really ended up with a leg too long - no matter how it felt early on in recovery.

Don't worry about it.  Do what you can with your PT and walking and remember that you are in the very early stages of recovery.

The "too long of leg" sensation will eventually become a "normal leg"    You are in good company with the long leg syndrom.

Good Luck.  Keep in touch.

Who did your surgery?

Pat

[motherof4]

Thanks Pat, you're sight is so reassuring.

Dr. Schemitsch at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto.

motherof 4

[Ronnie]

I just got back frof seeing my doctor and expressed the same concern. He told me not to worry once all the tisues compress the leg will be the same lengh. The leg is still swollen but on me it looks great since i have skinny legs.Keep me posted on the lenth thing. thanks

[Pat Walter]

Hi Ronnie

Glad you doctor explained the leg length issue.  That should make you feel better.

Sounds like you are moving right along with your recovery.

Think how great it will be next spring - no pain and doing whatever you want to.

Good Luck.

Pat

[YaYa Girl]

Mother of 4

I've been feeling the same sensations too post op.  Went to see my Doc David Chandler in N.W. Florida last Thurs.  He reassured me
that these feelings are quite normal after taking xrays during that visit.  Asked him about stretching exercises and he said absolutely
not!!!  Too soon, just keep during all the exercises PT has me doing.  I'm pretty certain that I thought there was a discrepancy with
the length last time and it took 3 or 4 months for the "kinks" to get worked out.  I can definitely tell a difference in regaining strength
in my operated leg. Able to stand longer and can almost manuever my leg into bed on my own!  I'm so grateful to be able to sleep in
my bed this time as I spent the first 3 to 4 months sleeping in a recliner! 

Kathy

[Pat Walter]

Hi Kathy

Glad everything via x-rays looks good.  Sounds like you are doing better this time.  Glad you don't have to sleep in the recliner all night. I spent a few hours in bed, then a few in the recliner, then a few in bed.  Back and forth.

Hope all continues to go well for you.

Pat