I am 41, had my resurfacing done in Jan 09. I can work out with weights, do the eliptical, walk normal, all mostly pain free. My goal is to get back to playing basketball in the next 3-4 months.
Anyone successful in returning to basketball? That was the main reason I did this surgery. Thanks!
I had my left BHR in Jan/09 as well, and I'm still waiting to get back onto the court. I have no doubt that in a few more months that will be possible. Each week there is improvement in strength, but I'm certainly not able to jump or absorb stop and go impact yet although I do test it against my 8 year old--my defensive capabilities are pretty limited, but I can still hit an open shot over a kid!
Quote from: tchucker on April 11, 2009, 05:56:32 PM
I am 41, had my resurfacing done in Jan 09. I can work out with weights, do the eliptical, walk normal, all mostly pain free. My goal is to get back to playing basketball in the next 3-4 months.
Anyone successful in returning to basketball? That was the main reason I did this surgery. Thanks!
tchucker,
Any progress w/ your return to the court. I just had my left hip resurfaced 1 Jun and would also like to play a little pick up ball at some point.
Any advice...
I look forward to reading the responses to your post. I used to play alot of hoops; not any for many years, despite my love of the game. Can't think of many sports that would provide a greater test of a hip resurfacing (especially in terms of impact on the joint and range of motion). Some success stories here would really provide reassurance to those with more modest expectations.
Age 28 Left hip resurfacing Oct 17 2008
Doctor said I could start playing Basketball at 9 months but i started playing at 7months or so and just didn’t tell him, but I will say this you need to come back gradually my first game back I new I came back too soon and was really sore (took another 3 weeks off) also it can cause a lot of pain to the knee since most of the shock goes there, so a knee brace is recommended and good shoes.
I only play once a week but I general play for a long time 2 to 4 hours, and have improved every week I’ve gone out there, ironically at 9months (which is when my doctor said I can play) I don’t have as much soreness in the hip anymore
Two things I’ve noticed is my hip as become a little bit more tweaky just a few more nagging pains maybe do to soreness or just do to irritation to the tendon that runs down the groin I’m going to try and do more stretches for this before and after I play to see if this helps
If you happen to have your HR on the leg you don’t jump off of you will be in much better position to come back and stay pretty much pain free, I jump off my left leg and that’s the only thing that I worry about even thou its gotten better
But after being able to play again for the first time in a year in a half I realized It would be very sad if I could never play again
Good Luck
I played pickup basketball regularly 3 times per week up to March of this year. The last time I played I couldn't stand up after sitting down. It took me a good 10 minutes to get my left leg under me and able to bear weight. So I haven't played since then.
I am scheduled for a left hip resurfacing with Dr. Ball in mid September. He did say that I could return to basketball. So I am excited about that. I used to run the court pretty good. But started slowing down a bit the past few years (I am 53 yrs old).
I am looking forward to getting up and down the court again. And play golf with a normal swing!
It was great to see that there are people returning to basketball after resurfacing. I would love to be able to get back on the court. I am not scheduled for surgery yet but hope to be in October or early November. I am just curious if anyone has experienced injury or if there is a risk of wearing the replacement out more quickly with such a high impact sport.
I would say that you are not going to wear out the appliance. It is a tough metal alloy. I don't think that a properly positioned appliance will wear out playing basketball. I hope to test that theory in the near future. Scheduled for left hip in four days in San diego - Dr. Ball.
I originally posted under tchucker, but I lost all my login stuff, so I am now in with a new login.
I finally returned to playing baskeball after a 16 month absense. My surgery was in January and I got on the court for the first time in late August...7 months past surgery. I was very rusty and clumsy, but it had more to do with the layoff than my hip. I stretched well before I played, and I iced and stretched after I played. Everything felt good. I was a little sore afterwards, but I felt nothing in the actual joint. The soreness was in my groin, and my guess the main tendon in the groin was the culprit.
I feel great on the court. I am not a jumper, but I feel faster on my feet. I used to slash to the basket with more reckless abandon. I now have to pick and choose my spots. I am very pleased and I now am playing twice a week. I wear Thudd Compression Shorts, because it has padding for my hip and thighs. I might be a tad bit over-cautious with that, but why not.
I believe that I have made a smooth transition because the doctor here in Seattle did a great job, I worked hard on PT and I continue to work out with weights and the elyptical machine. I also lost weight to put less stress on the joints, keep up on stretching and icing, and I am playing a little smarter in relation to the punishment I want to expose my body to.
I love playing basketball. It was my number one reason for doing the resurfacing. I am 41 and having fun. I will keep updating from time to time.
Thank you for posting this. I am 14 days post op and doing really good. The joint feels good and I am able to walk pretty well now.
My doctor said 6 months for basketball and 2 months for golf. I am looking forward to reaching those timetables.
I used to play inside but I moved my game to more of a guard play. So I should be OK upon my return.
Keep us up to date as you progress.
Quote from: tmaroo56 on September 24, 2009, 02:23:06 PM
I originally posted under tchucker, but I lost all my login stuff, so I am now in with a new login.
I finally returned to playing baskeball after a 16 month absense. My surgery was in January and I got on the court for the first time in late August...7 months past surgery. I was very rusty and clumsy, but it had more to do with the layoff than my hip. I stretched well before I played, and I iced and stretched after I played. Everything felt good. I was a little sore afterwards, but I felt nothing in the actual joint. The soreness was in my groin, and my guess the main tendon in the groin was the culprit.
I feel great on the court. I am not a jumper, but I feel faster on my feet. I used to slash to the basket with more reckless abandon. I now have to pick and choose my spots. I am very pleased and I now am playing twice a week. I wear Thudd Compression Shorts, because it has padding for my hip and thighs. I might be a tad bit over-cautious with that, but why not.
I believe that I have made a smooth transition because the doctor here in Seattle did a great job, I worked hard on PT and I continue to work out with weights and the elyptical machine. I also lost weight to put less stress on the joints, keep up on stretching and icing, and I am playing a little smarter in relation to the punishment I want to expose my body to.
I love playing basketball. It was my number one reason for doing the resurfacing. I am 41 and having fun. I will keep updating from time to time.
tchucker,
Thanks also for posting. Appreciate that someone is "trailblazing" the way back to court. I am at 3 months post op and feeling great. Dr Gross advises 6 months for impact activities such as basketball. Hip feels great, like I could go back now. That said, I've only run a little through the house chasing my daughter. Haven't tried running full court, jumping or anything like that.
Definitely going to shave a little bit off of the 6 months, just not sure how long. Figure doctors inherently have to be extra conservative. At 37, I also hope that the recovery process may be faster?
There will always be those worries (am I going too fast? Am I shortening the life of the implant?). 10 -15 years from now, we may know better if we pushed the devices too far, but life is short, right?
I like your idea about the Thudd Compression Shorts, I may try that. Definitely, one of the worst things that could happen is falling directly on the hip (which has happened to me in the past, so I know it’s possible). Although I have read that (once completely healed) a resurfaced hip would take as much energy to fracture as an original hip, anything to cushion that possibility is appropriate, especially prior to one year.
Good luck and play well!
Curious to know how /if the return to the court for hoops has gone...I officiate and I am suffering from basketball withdrawls...my surgery is not until mid february so I hope to get back for HS fall leagues next season...
Dear Roosevelt heights (and all),
At just under 5 months post op, I have just recently returned to playing basketball, last week being the first week back. Played 2 full court games Wednesday, and then (since we only had 7 people) played 5 half court games two days after that. Although I am certainly not 100%, especially running full court, I am definitely way better than before the surgery, and anticipate continued improvement as my hip gets stronger. The main thing, though, is that I can run, and there’s no pain! I could definitely referee if needed. If you are interested, there’s more detail (long windedness?) in my story thread at the location below.
Hip Talk > Hip Stories > Hip Stories > 37 yr old athlete hoping for more court time (Wes's Hip Story w/ Dr. Gross)
As far as setting timetables for yourself, the one thing that Pat has stressed in her comments on peoples threads is that everyone has there own recovery rate and that there are many variables that determine one’s own timetable. There are no guarantees, and you must listen to your doctor and definitely to your body. That said - if you are having surgery in Feb, (based on my experience and what I have read on this website) I would be definitely be optimistic that you could be ref-ing by 8 months later (mid October).
Good luck!
Wes
U just made my day...
To hoopers,
Interesting to hear that basketball is on the list; I used to love the game but had to give it up years ago due to hip problems. I've had my left resurfaced and will have the right one done after next golf season. Based on what I hear said by all of you, I may try to play again (I had always thought that b-ball was too rough on a new hip)
Thanks, HTJ
Hello again all…
At the about 6 month post op period, I am keeping with my progress reporting…
Would like to update that I have been playing at least once a week, and this week played 3 full court games Tuesday night, then yesterday (Friday) afternoon, ran 5 full court games. I can now run almost full speed, and the kid gloves I have been treating the hip with are starting to come off. Yesterday, was wondering if maybe I had pushed it too far, not from pain or problems, was just thinking “this has got to be too much, right?â€. I even tried my patented spin move layup at full speed. But I must say, I am only normally sore today, no problems with the hip or supporting muscles / tendons, etc. Before the surgery, I was up to a Celebrex a day, maybe two, plus 2 ibuprofen before playing, now no need for anything.
Sweet… Thanks to a F-ing medical miracle â€" I AM BACK. Thank you!!!
As always - best of luck to you and your hip story,
Wes
Hey Wes,
Thanks for the updates they have been really helpfull. Mine is a similar story to yours. Former ball player in college, 6'8, 39 yrs old and at my 7 month post op point.
I've been walking, lifting wieghts and biking for months now and started running on the treadmill and track a few weeks ago.
Did you have some soreness after the first time you ran and/or played ball?
Seems like everytime I add something new it feels sore for a few days after.
I just don't want to over do it.
Thanks again,
Razor
I don't play hoops but I'm pretty active in other sports. I had a great recovery, but have been pleasantly surprised that my hip strength continued to improve well over a year after surgery. (eg. certain muscle groups: adductors, abductors needed ongoing work). I have adopted a prehab/rehab strategy for my hips, sort of like management of muscles that have been prone to a sports injury in other areas, as part of my conditioning routine in the gym - (e.g. as a swimmer, my shoulders benefit from TLC) - and this is working for me. Given the demands of hoops, you might find that keeping up some of the rehab PT exercise for your hips as an ongoing part of your conditioning will pay dividends on the court. Have fun!
What up Razor!
To answer your question, was mildly sore towards the end of my first true full court basketball session 1.5 months ago at 4.5 month post op. Played two games, and by the end of the 2nd, could tell it was time to stop. Honestly have been very conservative with regards to pain, but the thing is, is that I haven’t had hardly any. The worst thing I’ve had is I thought I may have tweaked something in there while walking (hopping?) up a hill while playing golf at about 3 months post op. That went away after a few days. So as I felt tightness and tiredness begin to happen in the hip area that first night, I resolved to stop after that game and let it rest. My personal mantra is “listen to your hipâ€. While I sometimes ignore the rest of my body’s aches, the hip has my full attention.
Overall, as I’ve steadily increased the intensity and length levels over the past 1.5 months, have not felt that much irregular soreness. There’s the soreness of getting back into shape, the soreness of overdoing it some nights, but I cannot detect much more that a hint of “new hip in there†soreness. My other hip is in the early stages of wearing out, and my ankles smart after a full workout, but my new hip is golden.
Let me know how it goes when you start back…
Sincerely,
Wes
I thought I would give an update again. I am 13 months post-op now. I was playing basketball about three times a week. Then I had a non-hip setback (tore MCL on other leg at the end of Sept '09). But after a four month hiatus, I am back to playing 2-3 times a week. The hip still feels great. I do get a little sore in the groin on the side of my hip, but it is muscle/tendon related. Its enough to be noticed, but that's all.
I keep up on my weight lifting. I want everything strong around my hips and knees.
I am so thankful that I found this procedure. I rarely even think about my hip. Basketball is my passion outside of my family, and I just couldn't imagine giving it up at age 41. Its nice to be able to play at a decent level as well.
I hope everyone else is doing well, as all is well in Seattle!
T
Hello all,
Wanted to let anyone who’s interested know that I posted a 2 minute YouTube video of some Y-league highlights (highlights is a stretch) of a surface hippy balling. Web address is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFBDdn8l7IQ
Sweet.
Later,
Wes
Played today for the first time in about 11 months. Two full (small) court games was enough for me. No pain but I am stiff tonight. I was sucking wind though. It is going to take some time to get back into shape. The hip felt strong and I had full confidence in it. I am 6 months post op.
Just in time for March Madness.... Congratulations!
MHedgerton,
Huge update...that is my REALISTIC goal...Congrats...How did it feel to set that pick, or block out on your hip...could u stick the pivot foot ?
Very Nice MHedgerton!
Congrats on your progress getting back on the court. Did you do any shooting around in the weeks prior to getting back on the court? That is the one thing I haven't heard much of, it seems as though many hoopers have gone directly back to competition. Again congrats!
All the best to you!
I did shoot around some for a month or so before playing. I did the usual exercises that the hospital PT gives you for the first month or so after the operation. I also did 6 weeks of physical therapy that included some good strenghtening exercises and range of motion improvement therapy. I also hiked in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve starting in month 3 after surgery. I started with just short level trails and worked up to add distance and elevation. I overdid it and screwed up my quads and thankfully I was in PT at the time so they fixed the problem. But it took a week to recover from that experience. I also worked out three times a week for about an hour each time doing 20 minurtes on either the stationary bike, elliptical, or rowing machine. Then lifted weights for 20 - 30 minutes and stretched a little.
To sum it up I did a good amount of physical activity before playing but I never did run hard or try to cut hard before playing.
When I played I was able to rebound , set picks, shoot and play D OK. I was not able to pivot and change direction quickly. For instance if the defense suddenly intercepted a pass and I needed to turn around quickly and sprint back to play D. This isn't a hip joint issue. Just need to get the muscles back into shape.
I am excited to be able to play again. I fully expected to be able to based on the stories I read here before my operation. My expectations have been met.
This is great Medgerton,
Thank you for sharing! I recently have moved slowly to one crutch, I am feeling stronger, something about me wants to move seamlessly to work without the crutches. I have a feeling that my PT will move me off of them all together once they see me. It's like I am using them as a crutch more figuratively than literally, my legs feel strong I can't yet tell just how much strength I lost. My quads feel strong, but the weekness really feels in the flex at the hip. Raising the knee in front and things surrounding that are my largest challenge, however even that is improving significantly.
I appreciate your B-ball experiences they help a great deal, keep us posted on your progress out on the court. Maybe one day we can organize a Surface Hippy All-Star game! LOL!
Thanks again!
I am 16+ months Post Op. I play basketball 2 times a week (sometimes three) and work out two times a week. There is always a little groin pain and a little quad pain afterwards, but my surgeon says its normal. I keep up on strength exercises and weights for my quads, hamstrings, abductors/aductors and calves. Need to do more core work. I am 42 and hope to play basketball to age 55+ if possible.
By the way, in addition to my workouts, I shot around and did some "drills" on the court to get ready for playing actual games. I was still out of breath my first time out, but I felt a little more in control that way.
What up fellow surface hippies,
Make sure you thoroughly stretch out your calves and Achilles before any running activities.
Wanted to share good news as well as bad, to keep the knowledge sharing alive and help others learn. This time I have bad news. At about 11 months post op, ruptured my Achilles tendon last week playing basketball. This is the same leg with the new hip. Have been playing at a very high level since about 8 months, pretty much full speed with no problems. We even won the Y rec league. Then three weeks ago while cutting I had a twinge in my Achilles. Was able to finish that game, then quit for the night. It hurt pretty bad so I took a week off, then played once again a week later with a little pain, not too bad. Then last week, it was feeling better, so sort of went back to full speed playing. Towards the end of the 1st game, I planted and went to sprint, and BAM! Felt like somebody kicked the crap out of my ankle. But nobody did. Had surgery Saturday morning to repair it, local doc said it was completely torn. Crutches for 6 weeks followed by rehab. I understand the rehab will suck compared to the easy rehab I experienced with the hip.
Hip resurfacing rehab = Immediately walk on your own without pain. Progress from crutches to cane to nothing relatively fast as you build your muscles back. Rehab sort of takes care of itself by just walking. At 8 months have complete confidence.
versus
Achilles rehab = Wear a M-Fing non-weight-bearing cast for 6 weeks while your leg muscles atrophy away. Go to a PT many times a week. Stretch all the time. Hurt. Suffer. Have slow progress. Perpetually wonder if it or the other will blow out again.
Can you tell I am sort of bummed at the moment?
Want to emphasize that I believe this has nothing to do with my new hip. It is still good. The fact that it so good allowed me to push the rest of my aging body farther than it needed to go at the time. Once I felt that first twinge I should have rested it for a longer while (sure wish I would have now). Also my stretching had been minimal. I have only been stretching before exercising and it is only for 3-5 minutes max. I now believe 3-4 minutes on the Achilles alone is appropriate and maybe 10 minutes as a minimum is appropriate, 15 would be better. From what I have been reading, “weekend warriors†(non-pro basketball players), especially those over 30, are particularly susceptible to Achilles injury.
If Dr Gross did Achilles, I would have gone to him for this. Heck I would go to him for a cold if he did that. He is a hero of mine and the gold standard against which I will forever measure all other docs. However, in contrast to hip replacement, where you have time to research and choose a doctor, a busted Achilles is something you don’t want to let set while you mull over your options for weeks or months. It is trauma that needs fixed.
In my case, the doc that did the Achilles repair is the same first doc that I first visited with hip trouble. He is the doc that wanted to and would have done a total hip replacement. At this visit he was still advising, “don’t play basketball on an artificial hip, even resurfacing, they’re not made for it. They will wear out faster. You want 20-25 years, not 6â€. I am certain that he means well and wants the best for his patients. But we do not see eye to eye. But I needed a fixed Achilles and he was once again well recommended.
Dr Gross does not have such restrictions on “impact activitiesâ€. We will see who is right. Time will tell how long our resurfaced hips will last under the acknowledged additional wear and tear of bball. Life is short and I have been and will continue to be a willing test subject. Just want this damn cast off.
Best of luck to all!
I haven't been on the boards in a while but I remember watching Wesinator's video and being pumped because I too love to play ball. I'm real sorry to hear about your recent injury and I hope it heals and you can get back out on the court. I remember back in college I was done playing ball for the night and was just sitting on the sidelines taking my shoes off when I got asked to play, I knew that I shouldn't have played because I was already spent but they convinced me to play and sure enough I blew out my left ankle. I didn't play ball again for almost 2 years and never really played the same again. Moral of the story, listen to your body and don't go against it, especially as we get older.
I'm now at my 5 month point and next month I go to Dr. Rogerson for my 6 month follow up and hopefully get the clearance for impact activities. I've been riding a lot of miles, walking and lifting weights in preperation for the upcoming b-ball season and I hope it goes well.
Take care Wes and best of luck to you and everyone else.
What up Surface Hippy-hoopsters,
Time has past and my Achilles is healing up nicely. It’s been 4 months. Feel like I could go back now, but am going to stay conservative. Plus it’s not bball season yet :).
Hip is still golden, was telling someone recently that at 1 year and 3 months, I rarely, if at all, think much about it anymore. It simply is fixed.
Something I have been thinking about is how much extra wear and tear is this extra running and jumping going to cost our new hips. My own common sense and belief tells me that an artificial device is not the same as the much of the rest of your body in the way that the more you use it, the better off it becomes, like your skills and your muscles. It is a mechanical thing that will wear out. I have heard several opinions, but the one I trust most is Dr Gross. He has plainly stated, “no limits on impact activitesâ€.
If he says it, it’s good enough for me. Play on.
later,
Wes
Wes...I bet you are pumped to get back out on the court, I hope it goes well for you. I played my first ball last week and it felt great while playing, sore the next day but that is to be expected. Tomorrow I'm back at it and can't wait. ;D
Take it easy...Tom
:) Hello Hoopers, it's been several months since the last time I checked in with all of you. First and foremost to Wes, man I hope your recover from the injury goes well. You have been a great inspiration for me and I am sure I speak for others as well.
Ok, so first of all this new hip has been amazing. I am still navigating through what I can or should I say am willing to do with it. I learned a lot about myself during my recovery, mostly that I am very conservative. I have been back on the court for about a month and a half now and I started very slow, Very Very slow...I have picked up the pace recently but still I have a hard time accepting that I can jump and run and shoot with great comfort. No pain, other than my hamstring being tight and a little glute fatigue, other than that the hip has been great. The other night I had a pretty strong all-star performance in my rec league. My biggest issue is driving by defense, I am trying to recall all the moves I had prior to my hip deteriorating and they are slowly coming back. I noticed that bending my knees when making a move is the problem, when I get low I am good, right now I am still so tight that my body fights me and I don't even notice until my defender cuts me off. When I think about it I can get by them with relative ease, so that is awesome. I was always known as a shooter in my day, but I can put it on the floor fairly well and I really want that back so I am working hard at it. :o
I do have a question for the runners and hoopers, my hamstring is so tight, that my fast twitch isn't quite where it should be and neither is the hamstring strength, right where the glute and Hammy meet. So when I try to sprint full stride I get this failure like pain that says slow down. It feel like i need to do lunges or leg curls, but I want to be sure. Has anyone experienced anything like this when returning. I know I am a little slow in my recovery but I am fine taking my time, but I am 9 months and want to get to full sprint sooner than later so I can teach these young guys a few things. Anyone have any thoughts in this area?
All the best,
Big "O"
I am not a Hooper and I am only one month post-op. However, I am a personal trainer and fitness instructor. Hamstring curls on a stability ball or bosu ball would be great to strengthen the hamstring, glute, and core muscles. Single leg at a time is preferrable. Using the machines, it is easy to cheat, so I prefer my clients and students use one of the balls. Let me know if you need an explanation how to perform them.
Glad to hear you are doing so well!
Hello Hoopers,
It is great to be back on the court officiating the game I have played (Go CSU Dominguez Hills !) and coached since 8 years old. I sat out the entire '09-'10 season to have both hips resurfaced by Dr. Pritchett in February and April 2010. Post op was tough, I developed an infection after the second procedure which required an additional 3 days in the hospital. Like a neanderthal, I went from a walker, to crutches, a cane, and finally to the "waddle." After my 6 month check up, Dr Pritchett said, "your good, you can't hurt these devices." I set my intentions to get even healthier. Basketball, like laughter is good medicine. It brings me joy. Anyone else understand that feeling ? It feeds my ego.
I found the best rehab to be deep water exercises and Bikram Yoga. I actually dropped 15 pounds, and found some spring in my step, but could not "change gears" as of yet. In October of this year, I started working the little guys, and basically got up and down the floor lightly jogging and with a slight "waddle."
For support of both hips, I met with a podiatrist who fitted me with orthotics. He used the analogy that my legs are like tires on a car, and orthotics and hip resurfacing are like having your tires retreaded. He went on to say that with retreads you can drive further, but you cannot drive recklessly like a teenager. Needless to say, I am doing the speed limits !
In late November, and in December my community college and high school seasons kicked off. I still have some "waddle", but no joint pain in either hip. I still use the sock "puter oner", and my shoe laces are double tied to the inside (I was never very flexible). Thus far, I am working 3-4 games per week, and have had two great OT games.
Moral of the story is, if you are researching your options for hip resurfacing vs total, Pros vs cons, this vs that. Or, if you are newly post op, swelling and/ or clunking, with time and listening to your body, all these issues will pass. Like many other hippies, I drank the "kool-aid", I love my bilats. The next scream you hear from me is when I announce that I can put on my socks unassisted !
Hello Hoopers and Non hoopers,
Thanks for the responses to the last post. jjmclain I am very interested in the hamstring exercises you mentioned using the ball and any others you may recommend. I haven't done any weight training since the first few months of recovery. I am not and never really have been very flexible, so I decided to take a vacation from the weights and try a more natural approach with Pilates. So far it has been outstanding, however, due to the explosive nature of certain areas of hoops I am going to try the hamstring excercises as well.
One additional question, has anyone tried lunges at all. Including side, 45 degree and normal? I did a small set with no weights at home and was pretty sore a couple of days later which I expected.
All the best,
:D
Hello basketball players
It was inspiring to read all the stories of players returning to basketball and I thought I should share my own. I had my right hip resurfaced in January 2010 and left one done in May 2010. Now, 8 months after my second surgery, I am back playing, at a slow pace in some local leagues. I feel way better than I did for the few years before surgery, at least in terms of my hips. Even though the running and moving pain is gone, I slow myself down to protect against injury, particularly because my calves feel really tight and vulnerable. I can really feel for you Wesinator and wish you the best in your recovery.
Getting back to sport in general, and basketball in particular, has been such a great thing for me. I never even realized how much I missed not being able to go out and compete on the court.
As I was dealing with pain during the initial healing stages, I told myself I would be happy getting out on the basketball court once or twice a month. However, now that the pain is gone and my taste for sports is coming back, I am finding myself pushed towards doing a lot more activities. I have played street hockey, tennis a number of times and even had my first hockey game last week (a lot of muscle soreness after that but my hip felt fine).
I have done lots of physiotherapy and feel confident that I will have hips as strong as ever by the time I am fully recovered. With all the core, glute and stabilizer training I have been doing, I think there is a decent chance I could even have a better functioning mid section than pre-surgery.
However, I still don't know quite what to believe about the impact of these sports on the longevity of my Smith and Nephew hips and would love some opinions from any doctors or fellow patients on this subject. Although I understand there isn't a ton of data on the longevity of the prosthesis because it is a relatively new surgery, I am sure there must have been some studies done, as well as some autopsies on both relatively sedentary and active people to compare wear patterns.
I have heard conflicting reports about what is actually happening inside the hip. I read something saying that there is constant metal on metal wear that will eventually lead to failure of the hip, obviously much sooner for an active athlete. However I have also read the ball and socket are machined so finely that a thin layer of liquid is trapped between the opposing surfaces, thus eliminating all friction, and don't know what to make of the conflicting reports.
I would love to hear from anyone reading this what they understand to be the long term consequences of returning to a moderately high level of sports. Are you really holding yourself back from the sports you love or are you doing whatever you feel like? Thanks.
Quote from: duck4three on January 18, 2011, 07:42:20 PM
Hello Hoopers and Non hoopers,
Thanks for the responses to the last post. jjmclain I am very interested in the hamstring exercises you mentioned using the ball and any others you may recommend. I haven't done any weight training since the first few months of recovery. I am not and never really have been very flexible, so I decided to take a vacation from the weights and try a more natural approach with Pilates. So far it has been outstanding, however, due to the explosive nature of certain areas of hoops I am going to try the hamstring excercises as well.
One additional question, has anyone tried lunges at all. Including side, 45 degree and normal? I did a small set with no weights at home and was pretty sore a couple of days later which I expected.
All the best,
:D
EB7,
I have read a lot over the past 1.5 years about what is the wear and tear on our resurfaced hips, and from what I can tell the answer is very definite: Nobody knows for sure. And the reason is that there is no historical data on these new style resurfacings past 10 or so years ago (and even less for even newer like Gross's cementless). And definitely none on people playing impact sports like basketball, soccer, running marathons, etc. There is no known formula for how much the increased impacts will lesson the life. We are very literally test subjects. If you want it to last the longest, take it easy. On the other hand, if you want to be active and live your life - balls to the wall!
All,
Update on my bball story. I am back to playing 2-3 times a week after fully recovering from Achilles tendon surgery. Sweet. It won’t be long before I am done, but it won’t be because of the hip. I’m just getting old. But for now… lace ‘em up and play on friends!
Later,
Wes
Hello Hoopers, it has been a while since my last post and it was good to read that Wes is back in action on the court! I must say that since my resurfacing in March of 2010, that the progress has been so good that I have been a little slack. I feel so good when I walk around and play hoops that I have taken a week off from working out here and there. I don't recommend that as you get stiff and tight when you sit all day at work and don't get any excercise in. Right now it's the NBA playoff's and I have been hooping at a very high level. In fact I am competing against players ten years and more my younger and giving them all they can handle and more :). I will put it this way, I am back to getting a double team in pick up ball with former NBA and College Players. I think that speaks volumes about the long term benefits of resurfacing. Ok, so it does cross my mind from time to time that I am pushing way too hard. My pick up is a very organized game and usually lasts for a minimum of two hours. I then follow that up with weight training, including, lunges for the hamstring, squats for the glutes focus and seated leg press. WOW! This really is amazing and I still feel like there is progress to be had. I am still gaurded with some moves, as I played shooting gaurd in college and point professionally and I am more concerned about my defender making a wrong move than me doing something. In fact I am great in one-on-one which tells me there are still a few mental hurdles to overcome. I just don't see any harm in being somewhat cautious until i reach two years. I tie my shoes, run, jump of one and two legs operated and non. It has been wonderful! I guess I will just pray that I don't wear this thing out. My doc told me that it will outlast me. I guess we'll see! Cheers my friends and happy hooping! ;D
Great to read about your return to high-level sports! I am also not holding back by playing racquetball tournaments, skiing downhill aggressively and hunting in the alpine.
If I can do that for 10 years from age 55 to 65 (I'm 57 yrs 8 mos young), then the hip resurfacing will be worth it. And the data indicates it may last my lifetime as the oldest BHR is 20 years old this year. Basically, I'm not being cautious so that the device may last 20 years instead of 10 years. I did have some squeaking during an alpine hunt a couple of weeks ago, which I attribute to dehydration, as I haven't had any squeaking before or since. My hamstrings were also cramping. Be sure to drink lots of fluids during your activity.
Thanks Steve! It is great to hear that I am not the only one pushing it! I like your perspective and feel very similar about the ROI of such a surgery. Thank you for the hydration point, I have historically not done a very good job wtih that and need to do it not only when I am competing but also throughout the day. Cheers to continued success!
All the best,
Orlando
Hello Group,
I am new to the community and have been actively seeking others who have had one or both hips resurfaced and are actively playing basketball. I am now 42 and had my right hip resurfaced BHR in April 2010 after having my left done in January 2008 at HHS in NYC by Dr. Edwin Su. I am currently playing in a few top level rec leagues and although I can no longer cover a very quick PG, I do just fine guarding 2-4 and occasionally a weak 5. I've had to reinvent my game if you will to compensate for the lack of speed, quickness, and most importantly jumping ability. At 6'1" before my hips started to fail, I could dunk easily two handed with one dribble.
I've come to the boards here to see first hand, just how much ability others have been able to regain after surgery. I am in the gym 3 X's per week and ride my bicycle as often as possible. I don't know if I will ever get back to playing above the rim, but the challenge and the trash talking of the youngsters keeps me working to get there.
The last 2 years I have captained a team that won the NJ Nets Metro Madness Tournament and we have gotten the chance to play and win at both IZOD and the PRUDENTIAL Centers. I will write more about my experience leading up to surgery #1 and including my post op rehab for surgery #2. Now I am off to a summer league game to teach these 20-Somethings a thing or two about the game I love. ;)
Please feel free to write with any questions and I will do my very best to answer them.
Hey - welcome and very cool to see another bi-hippy getting back to sports. I think there's several posts from people getting back to hoops at different levels.
Thanks Hernanu.
We had our 3rd annual ALL-STAR game in the IYB Basketball League (IYBASKETBALL.com) last night. The first two tilts, I coached since my hips were not quite ready for that pace or level of play and we went 0-2. This year my goal was to play and that I did. Trailing by 16 in the second half, I rallied the bench and we subbed 4 guys. We cut their lead to 2 by the 3rd period end and went on to win by 8 going away. It was one of those victories that won't soon be forgotten. I was the oldest player in the game which wasn't a surprise to anyone, but some of the younger guys in the game had no idea about my metal parts. It felt good to earn some respect back. I'm headed to Hilton Head in a few hours to work a HS summer camp for a few days and will hopefully have some down time to write more about my procedure down there.
Good stuff. I'm about to celebrate my first hippy anniversary on my left in a month, the other is in November. Pickup hoops is one of the things I gave up, along with soccer and my first love: Tae kwon do. I'm planning to pick them back up as I recoup.
I get what you mean about not covering the quick guys, it requires good cutting and maybe that needs extra work. I'm going to experiment with a slide board (used by skaters) and see if doing that will strengthen my cutting to get me back on those damned shifty guys.
Hello Fellow Hoopers,
It's great to hear the recovery stories and especially the winning! Just to add a bit of motivation, while I had just one of my hips (R) done in March 2010, the recovery for me was a bit slow. Largely due to my conservative approach to the recovery process, didn't want to lose this incredible medical miracle with a silly act of impatience. With that said, I have also returned to a very competitive level of play, however, much like mjs424 the 20 somethings were pushing my buttons a bit. I am 39 turning 40 this month and really didn't have the spead or leaping ability I once had and it bothers me. So I decided to take the training gloves off and take my training to the next level with lunges, leg press and a lot of running. That helped and I saw a noticable difference, at 6'2 I played point and 2 during my collegiate and pro career so it was really tough to see these young guys take advantage of my slower speed. Well I have to tell you I added P90x to my routine and WOW! I am getting by the defense and finishing at the rim. I haven't attempted anything above the rim at this point, but really don't even care as long as I can keep a young PG with decent skill in front and contest the shot I am happy. Gaurding me is a whole different story for the young guys, it's fun causing problems for them, they don't know that I have metal parts, but the gray hair gives away my age and makes me a target, at least initially. The other day my rec team beat a small college team and they were calling me Derrick Fisher by the time the game ended. I chuckled a bit inside and realized that my 40 year old game is not all that bad and getting better. Along with the plug for P90x if you haven't already tried it, it's great for our type of recovery and beyond. Let me know if you have any questions regarding it, I would be happy to answer any questions.
All the best,
Wow that is great update! It is one thing to be 40 against the kids but then to have a metal hip joint to top it off.
Being a UO alumnus I am curious about your site name.
Dan
I've had my eye on the P90x, may try it out. Where do you do most of your workouts? I live in an apartment.
Yes, I am a former hooper from UO. Back in 1990-95, had a lot of fun there, made it back to the NCAA tourney after a long absence! I played a lot of basketball following college, was very hard on my body, which i believe led to my need for the surgery to begin with. GO DUCKS!!!!
I do all of my P90X at my home. All you need is a living room, so move the couch, coffee table etc. and get busy! It's worth it. I started P90x 5wks ago at 240lbs. now i am at 216lbs. Starting what is called phase II, so I am very excited about the transformation that is taking place. Although weight is not the best indicator of fitness it's nice to see such a large reduction. However, the best part of the progress is seeing my college physique returning! Go ahead and give it a try, if you want to test it out. check out a few of the work outs on youtube. Although you won't get the full exposure of the manuals etc. you will see just how intense the work outs are. It certainly has my vote for best home workout, for that matter best workout home or gym!!!
All the best,
Go Ducks!!!
GO DUCKS!!!!
I never expected to run into another Duck on this site. I thought it was great just running into another Oregonian.
Best wishes as you continue improving your life.
Dan
Glad to hear everyone is making strides and adjusting to life and sport with their new components. The camp I lectured at this summer on Hilton Head, was a great time. The kids didn't believe me when I told them of my surgeries until I showed them the scars. I got to play some competitive pickup in the evening with other coaches on the island and most walked away very impressed. I also did P90X after my second procedure, but the workout requires a tremendous amount of core strength which I sorely lacked after the second surgery. Life with bi-lateral resurfacing is quite different than having just one. The biggest difference I've found is the lack of balance. I was able to easily compensate and shift weight after the first surgery, because one leg and hip was still much more stable. Having both done, the slightest bump or misstep would at times send me for a tumble. I decided to ramp up the diet full force and focus on balance and plyometric type exercises which has helped me make incredible strides. Also I have to mention, Like most of you I've worn thousands of pairs and several brands of sneakers over the course of a life time playing. I recent picked up a pair of NIKE ZOOM KOBE VI and they have enabled me to make greater strides in the past 2 months than I thought possible at this juncture. I am currently the #4 ranked player in our league at LifeTime Fitness and the TOP REBOUNDER in the league at 13 per. The league keeps detailed stats and ranks all players after each game based on their overall performance. I joined as a free agent and our team has zero chance of winning a game, due to the lack of talent and selfishness that sometimes comes with being on a free agent team, but I am using the run as a stepping stone for the upcoming fall league that I am playing in. Players stats can be viewed online but apparently I am unable to post the link here. Best of luck and continued success everyone!
Has anyone here ever looked into or played in the Masters Basketball Association held in Florida each year?
They have divisions of 40+ 50+ 6- + and 70+. I am going to hopefully be entering a team next May. If anyone
here is serious about playing, please reach out to me and I will get you the information. The competition is
quite stiff so I've been told.
Have a great weekend!
8 months and a day post resurfacing... just played 2 hours of hoops. First time out in 7 years. Lateral moves were slow, I have no hops or lungs, but the hip felt great and I had a good shooting night (no idea how that happened :) ).
2 of the guys new about the hip and not a word was said about it. Feels good to be 'normal'.
Quote from: einreb on October 18, 2011, 12:02:35 AM
8 months and a day post resurfacing... just played 2 hours of hoops. First time out in 7 years. Lateral moves were slow, I have no hops or lungs, but the hip felt great and I had a good shooting night (no idea how that happened :) ).
2 of the guys new about the hip and not a word was said about it. Feels good to be 'normal'.
Quote from: einreb on October 18, 2011, 12:02:35 AM
8 months and a day post resurfacing... just played 2 hours of hoops.
Holy crap, I'm hurting today. Hip is fine... everything else hurts.
Good to see you're getting back. I couldn't have done hoops right now, so more power to you.
I'm slowly getting back my wind, have barely ramped up to 15 minutes on the heavy bag, which wipes me out for the next day, but no problems on the hips. No dunks right now?
Quote from: hernanu on October 18, 2011, 07:17:19 PMNo dunks right now?
I could barely dunk when I quit playing 7-8 years ago. Its on my to-do list, but I'm also aware that I'm 40 years old.
What I'm really interested in is left leg strength. My bad leg/hip has hurt since I was 7. I never jumped off my left leg. Ever. Almost all my better moves are to my left and pushing off my stronger right leg.
Well, I'm going to have to do my hippy calculation for you - I figure the resurf takes a good five years off your age, so really you're effectively 35. The new motivation kicks in for 5 more years, so that takes you to 30. I'd say you dunk within a year, I expect a post when you do, it'll give me a good reason to lift a glass of Dos Equis to you.
Quote from: einreb on October 18, 2011, 07:08:06 PM
Quote from: einreb on October 18, 2011, 12:02:35 AM
8 months and a day post resurfacing... just played 2 hours of hoops.
Holy crap, I'm hurting today. Hip is fine... everything else hurts.
Holy crap again, I'm hurting again today. Played last night for 2 hours straight.
Hip feels good, but I did an odd jump stop and tweaked my right knee and my left calf both at the same time early in the night. That makes for an odd limp.
I spent the rest of the evening running up and down the court like an aging Kevin McHale. It wasn't pretty.
Einreb-
It seems like our new hips give us the idea that we have gotten younger. Our bodies tell us differently.
Still it has to feel good to even be able to do that without excruciating pain. Feeling muscle soreness is nothing compared to bone on bone.
Dan
Quote from: einreb on October 25, 2011, 11:56:16 AM
Quote from: einreb on October 18, 2011, 07:08:06 PM
Quote from: einreb on October 18, 2011, 12:02:35 AM
8 months and a day post resurfacing... just played 2 hours of hoops.
Holy crap, I'm hurting today. Hip is fine... everything else hurts.
Holy crap again, I'm hurting again today. Played last night for 2 hours straight.
Hip feels good, but I did an odd jump stop and tweaked my right knee and my left calf both at the same time early in the night. That makes for an odd limp.
I spent the rest of the evening running up and down the court like an aging Kevin McHale. It wasn't pretty.
Only thing I'd say is to be careful of overstressing other parts if your hip's not quite ready. I went out dancing, ater an hour of it, my hip felt fine, but my knee was sore. I think it took over some of the support and I definitely felt it afterwards. Not basketball, but you should see some of those Salsa moves :o
basketball is a tough one, I run and take a lot of high impact classes at the gym involving plyometrics and sprints. I played full court ball 3 months to the day after surgery , but of course that was too soon. If i had to do over again I would wait a full year before high impact, why chance an early revision. It's been almost 3 years now and am very happy with the results . I'm 46 and can do anything , just use common sense . Leave out the heavy squats or extreme load bearing activities and you will be fine.
Hello Surface Hippy Hoopsters,
Wanted to give a 5 year update for the record:
Things are still going great. My hip is none the worse for wear that I can tell. I am five years older (42 now) and can definitely feel that, but my hip is still good.
I have played 4-5 months a year (winter basketball season) each of the past 4 years and can report no major issues with the hip. This will be the 5th season.
Minor problem I have had is that, at the beginnings of each season, if I come back too much, too soon and try to run too hard without working up to it, there is something that fatigues easily in the resurfaced side tendons / ligaments deep in the hip that I can really affect. It comes on as a throbbing during playing, and then the hardass I am, I keep pushing, and it is really, really sore for a few days. Actually excruciating for the first night. The first time it happened, in the second year, I thought I really screwed something up. Enough to make an appointment with Dr Gross and drive the 6 hrs to his office for an appointment. He took X-rays and could find no structural items. It still happens once or twice at the beginnings of each season, before I get my body back in bball shape.
Aside from not working my way back into shape, I more regularly than not forget there is a metal hip in there. Me being old is more limiting than the hip.
Recommendations from my 5 years of experience:
1. Stretch well before playing
2. Work yourself into shape slowly â€" try elliptical trainers / biking / stationary biking for a while (maybe 2-3 weeks) before all-out running as fast as you can.
3. If you get some pains in there, don’t panic, but stop and take it easy for a while.
4. Wear protective under-armour type hip protection â€" you can google the term “thudd shortsâ€. These will add some small level of protection and mentally give you some piece of mind to not worry as much.
5. Have fun and keep hooping â€" its good exercise!
All the best,
Wes “wesinatorâ€
Great Post. I like the wesinator.
Quote from: hernanu on December 21, 2014, 10:38:12 PM
Great Post. I like the wesinator.
Almost 3 years after 2 hip resurfacing procedures, I am playing full court basketball 3 times a week. It's pretty competitive, and I am always the oldest guy on the court. I am 56. This has been a new lease on life. I also referee high school basketball. I get a full schedule, usually 3 times a week. My surgeon was just magnificent. Huge thank you and shout out to Dr. Drinkwater in Rochester, NY.
I had my right hip resurfaced in early 2003, and played basketball regularly for at least 10 years thereafter, until my left hip gave out. I'm now 20 days out of a resurfacing of that hip, and fully intend to resume playing basketball again beginning in six months.
Quote from: Twins2013 on September 17, 2015, 10:48:35 AM
Quote from: hernanu on December 21, 2014, 10:38:12 PM
Great Post. I like the wesinator.
Almost 3 years after 2 hip resurfacing procedures, I am playing full court basketball 3 times a week. It's pretty competitive, and I am always the oldest guy on the court. I am 56. This has been a new lease on life. I also referee high school basketball. I get a full schedule, usually 3 times a week. My surgeon was just magnificent. Huge thank you and shout out to Dr. Drinkwater in Rochester, NY.
Sounds great. Keep it up, this is a new life on bionic hips.
Hey Fellow Long time and new Hoopers! It's officially been over seven years since I had my right hip resurfaced by Dr. Pritchett in Seattle and I played hoops between 2-3 days/week since the 7 months of recovery following that surgery. In the last year I began to notice my left hip going very bad and so I started Juicing Green veges and lost weight in order to preserved my OE for another year or more. It worked for a while to delay what I knew was the inevitable. This was also great because I learned a lot about nutrition and healthy eating habits for arthritic people during this time. However, after a valiant battle my left hip waived the white flag and it was time to surrender :( . I saw Dr. Pritchett again in Seattle at the Swedish Orthopedic Hospital to have my left hip resurfaced he agreed it was time. So, I am recovering 4 days post op and all is well. Dr. P is excellent!!! He has some new techniques that make the surgery so seamless, I was in and out same day!!! His staff was polite and knowledgeable, the anesthesiologist was a miracle worker and the surgery was shorter than expected and time in recovery was on 30 minutes!!! I stayed in the hospital a few days 7 years ago although I felt great following that surgery. :) The pain is minimal and I am looking forward to getting back to a fun extended basketball career. I was competing at a high level for 4 years following my first surgery then my left hip started to bother me. It wasn't until it began to rapidly deteriorate mid 2016 that I began to slow down.
A word to the wise, once you have the resurfacing done and begin feeling better and playing hoops or whatever your activity is, don't regress and settle!!! Stay active, eat healthy (eat to live, not the other way around) and remember don't use basketball to get in shape, it's meant to be a fun sport to enjoy, but you must do other exercises and workouts to play hoops! I am confident that I'll be back on the courts this summer and will continue to update my progress on this site. I haven't posted in six years because things have gone so well! I'm not even sure if anyone will read this post since this group (Anyone returning to basketball) is so old, but if anyone does read this from that group or is planning on returning to playing hoops keep lacing them up and getting up and down the court! Stay Healthy My Fellow Hippies!
Quote from: duck4three on February 11, 2017, 02:36:54 PM
Hey Fellow Long time and new Hoopers! It's officially been over seven years since I had my right hip resurfaced by Dr. Pritchett in Seattle and I played hoops between 2-3 days/week since the 7 months of recovery following that surgery. In the last year I began to notice my left hip going very bad and so I started Juicing Green veges and lost weight in order to preserved my OE for another year or more. It worked for a while to delay what I knew was the inevitable. This was also great because I learned a lot about nutrition and healthy eating habits for arthritic people during this time. However, after a valiant battle my left hip waived the white flag and it was time to surrender :( . I saw Dr. Pritchett again in Seattle at the Swedish Orthopedic Hospital to have my left hip resurfaced he agreed it was time. So, I am recovering 4 days post op and all is well. Dr. P is excellent!!! He has some new techniques that make the surgery so seamless, I was in and out same day!!! His staff was polite and knowledgeable, the anesthesiologist was a miracle worker and the surgery was shorter than expected and time in recovery was on 30 minutes!!! I stayed in the hospital a few days 7 years ago although I felt great following that surgery. :) The pain is minimal and I am looking forward to getting back to a fun extended basketball career. I was competing at a high level for 4 years following my first surgery then my left hip started to bother me. It wasn't until it began to rapidly deteriorate mid 2016 that I began to slow down.
A word to the wise, once you have the resurfacing done and begin feeling better and playing hoops or whatever your activity is, don't regress and settle!!! Stay active, eat healthy (eat to live, not the other way around) and remember don't use basketball to get in shape, it's meant to be a fun sport to enjoy, but you must do other exercises and workouts to play hoops! I am confident that I'll be back on the courts this summer and will continue to update my progress on this site. I haven't posted in six years because things have gone so well! I'm not even sure if anyone will read this post since this group (Anyone returning to basketball) is so old, but if anyone does read this from that group or is planning on returning to playing hoops keep lacing them up and getting up and down the court! Stay Healthy My Fellow Hippies!
It’s been 5 years since anyone has posted any updates from b-ballers. Is it because you guys have had to quit playing? Any updates on how your hips are holding up?
Quote from: AG on January 03, 2022, 07:07:21 AM
It’s been 5 years since anyone has posted any updates from b-ballers. Is it because you guys have had to quit playing? Any updates on how your hips are holding up?
Also wondering this... I'm 26 years old with stage 3 Bi-lateral arthritis. Hoping to get back to 2+ hours of basketball playing/training a day, plus 3-5 days of weight training/plyometrics a week (this is the pre-arthritis life that I lived). Anyone here get back to that high an activity level? Also wondering how people felt on the court after fully recovering from Resurfacing surgery - do you feel as good as new again? Wondering if I should expect a performance drop off
This is a great thread. I did my first hip this month, hopefully I can also return to bball after the second hip is completed and healed.
Comprehensive Experience of a 51 year old basketball player with 14 years of that on a re-surfaced hip.
Hello ballers,
Some would say 50+ year olds shouldn’t be playing basketball anymore.
Some would say 50+ year olds with a metal hip definitely shouldn’t be playing basketball anymore.
Lots would say 50+ year olds with TWO metal hips really, definitely, positively should hang it up.
Nope.
I am living proof that if you want, you can extend your bball career through hip resurfacing indefinitely. That is, until something else gives out. Because its not going to be your re-surfaced hip.
I’ve been playing at an advanced Y req league level for 14 years on a resurfaced hip. The hip is stable and shows no signs off excess wear. The metal ion level in my blood is normal.
Got my first “appliance†in 2009 at age 37. At that time I was advised by a generalist orthopedic surgeon that this technology was unproven and not recommended. Very glad I did not take his advice. In my mind, the difference between the two technologies is extremely substantial and GLARINGLY OBVIOUS, with THR being fundamentally inferior!
Instead researched resurfacing industry leaders and decided Dr Gross and his thousands of positive outcomes was the best choice for me. I have a lot of other posts on here if you would like to read the details, but suffice to say, Dr Gross’s skill and dedication has resulted in many, many athletes getting a second lease on their athletic life. I am so grateful to him and his team.
So my other hip has gotten bad and I had my second procedure this week. Same kind of thing, as well as experience. Now for the re-hab. I will say, though, that for the 1st hip, I waited way, way too long. I was a cripple with a cane and could barely walk 100 feet. This time I think I may have err-ed on the early side, but its hard to get the timing exactly right. You know, predicting when enough is enough, but not leaving useful mileage on your natural hip. Especially when Dr Gross’s backlog requires a 3-4 month lag. That is the only downside of his practice. Ideally, you could wait until “you’ve had enough†and set up your procedure for next week. No, you have to predict 4 months out when “you will have had enoughâ€. I know I was early (I played full court basketball with 20 year olds just last weekend), but its still better than being a cripple.
So I’m laid up at the moment, but determined to make one last come back as soon as my recovery is complete. It’ll be different with two appliances in there. There won’t be a natural hip to jump off of. I must say, over these last 14 years, I did favor explosive jumping off the natural side (which was a change from before when it was the opposite leg when I had two natural hips). And my preferred jumping has been off of both feet. Also for the 1st 10 or so years, I took approximately April to Oct off from basketball to focus on golf. This had more to do with time management (golf takes a LOT of time) than body maintenance. However, ever since COVID subsided, I’ve been playing year round. Not sure if this accelerated my other hip going bad or not. Its hard to know these things for sure.
So, in conclusion, fellow basketball junkies, know that you can successfully extend your playing years for a decade or more, with no limitations, if your hip(s) is going bad. Just make sure to partner up with an re-surfacing industry expert like Dr Gross, and follow their rehab instructions.