Hi everyone! I'm back from Birmingham and feeling much better. It was tougher than I thought but I've got the meds right now and being back home makes a huge difference.
First up-thanks so much for all the support, I've just caught up with the news on here and a lot of people have wished me well, along with Sal and Ruby as we were close together.
I didn't get my BHR- Mr Treacy gave me a 70/30 chance, so I have a ceramic THR.
Not too long ago I would have had a lot of trouble accepting that but I'm totally happy with my outcome.
Coming on here is the best thing I could have done.
Tons of hippies eager to help and support others made me realise that a THR is not the 2nd prize I had it down for.
This site helped me discover Mr Treacy, and as Danny told me- If Mr Treacy can't give you a Bhr, nobody can.
I could have got a THR a lot closer to home but by travelling to see him, I'll never be left wondering about what might have been.
I'm just so grateful that I will have a stable pain free hip for a long time ahead.
Thanks hippies, I don't know what i would have done without you!
Hi Mike
I am so happy to hear things went well for you and you have a new ceramic THR. No problem with that. You will be out of pain and when you heal, you will be active again without any restrictions, I assume.
Mr. Treacy is the best. No problem with you having a THR and hanging around here. We want to hear how you progress and all your updates when you have time.
I put your story under the THRs so others can learn in case they can't have a hip resurfacing.
Good Luck and tak it easy for awhile. Stay in touch when you can.
Pat
Hi Mike, well done! I have ceramic on poly lined titanium. I guess I feel the same, I don't have a resurfacing this time round but I do have a good prosthesis and no pain, hey, what's there to feel sad about! welcome to the other side, hope your recovery goes well, stay in touch as we are only one day apart. Xx Sal
Mike, it's great things went well! Like Pat said, no restrictions, no pain and the peace of mind that one of the best in the business set you up with the best possible for you. Now just heal and keep us updated.
Mike I'm glad that you are home and well. I'm sorry that you didn't get a BHR but as I said to you before if he can't do it it cantle done. You gave yourself the best shot at getting one and now atleast you know that you have a thr that's installed perfectly! That's not something everyone gets!
I wish you a speedy recovery and please keep us updated as how your getting on!
Danny
That's great news Mike. I wish you a speedy recovery.
Good job, Mike. Recovery is pretty much the same for any type of THA (arthroplasty) - rest, ice, rest, ice, some doc-specific exercises, more rest, and more ice,... Take it easy and enjoy being pain free.
Hey Mike,
So glad to hear you are happy with your THR and on the road to recovey! When you are feeling a little bit better I will be quizzing you like mad as im looking at a THR too so have lots of questions for you!!!!
Anna ;D
Thanks folks, I got a great nights sleep in and feel fantastic-no hip pain!!
Everything feels supple and loose, swelling receding etc, it's so good to feel like this.
That horrible nagging OA pain has GONE!
I'm taking all this good advice on board and will start on the ice today.
Anna- fire as many questions as you want, anything to help a fellow Yorkie!
What stage are you at now? any firm dates,etc?
Got the district nurse coming today to change my dressing so I'll get to see a nice neat scar I hope.
Thanks everyone.
Hi Mike,
I cannot wait for my first decent nights sleep. I didn't get too much rest in the hospital what with the buzzers going off and the need to take obs every couple of hours.
I'm still in a tremendous about of pain and it's hard to say whether it's just muscle and incision or OA... I'm hoping its the former!!
I'll be reading your story regularly to keep up to speed with your progress. So sorry we didn't get to say hello! Would have been nice to have had a quick natter in xray!
No OA pain?! Wow, that must be a good feeling. I so happy for you! ;D
I have no dates or anything. Ive been waiting 2 months now for an appointment at the ROH. Gonna give them a ring this week to see whether they even know I exist.
So do you have the 90 degree restriction? What did Mr T say about restrictions in the future? Anything you wont be able to do? Did he mention running? Biking? Bungy jumping .... doing the splits?!!!!!
Anna
Ruby
I just posted on your recovery threat about pain, etc.
From the people I've spoke to since I came home, it seems nobody get anywhere near the proper amount of sleep in hospital and it's taken me a full day at least to start feeling better.
Get as comfy as you can, find a routine about how long to sit in one place, best time to do exercises etc and you will be healing.
I hope it goes as well for you,take care.
Anna,
It's hard to describe how good the feeling is with no OA. The OA crept up on me slowly over about 3 years and like many here, I hadn't noticed how many allowances I made for it.
To not have that feeling now as I walk straight and upright is incredible.
I keep waiting for the twinge as I walk but it's just not there!
My restrictions for 6 weeks are 3 things-
No 90 degree,
No crossing the leg over centre line of body,
No excessive turning in or out at the ankle.
Long term, just one- no fast running advised. A short run for a bus or something is ok , just no continual pounding.
I can live with that, no problem. I'll be looking after it but not get over cautious.
Mr Treacy asked me what I did for a living, I'm a Joiner, and he said -you need a hip that can let you get into lots of awkward corners, so that's what I shall give you-amazing!
I struggled like you seem to be to get York NHS to get on the same wavelength as Birmingham, who I found super efficient
You'll get there Anna- stay positive, look at Ruby's cancellation and how quick things happened for her.
That could easily happen to you Anna
Mike
Quote from: Anna on August 15, 2012, 02:52:23 PM
No OA pain?! Wow, that must be a good feeling. I so happy for you! ;D
I have no dates or anything. Ive been waiting 2 months now for an appointment at the ROH. Gonna give them a ring this week to see whether they even know I exist.
So do you have the 90 degree restriction? What did Mr T say about restrictions in the future? Anything you wont be able to do? Did he mention running? Biking? Bungy jumping .... doing the splits?!!!!!
Anna
Anna, what options are they suggesting for you? is HR still possibility?
Hey thanks Mike. Ive suffered for over 6 years now. I just couldnt imagine a life without the pain to be honest. I gave up running 6 years ago when it was diagnosed so I suppose its just not part of my life anymore. I could live with that if it meant I would be pain free. Im really chuffed for you. Everytime I see a guy on crutches hobbling round York over the next few weeks I will be shouting Mike to see if I get a reaction! ;D
Hern, I went to see Mr T in June and he said that I wasnt suitable for HR. My femour is too straight and all the angles are wrong. He said it just wasnt an option .... and you cant argue with that coming from Mr T. I have two options left, a PAO or a THR. Im waiting for an appointment to see a specialist for the PAO but I doubt I will be suitable as they only work if OA isnt too bad. It may be an option for my left hip but im sure its not an option for my right. Im 99% sure its too far gone and I will need a THR. I can see the OA on the x rays and my surgeon in York told me 'dont build your hopes up as I can see the OA, but we still have to explore all options'.
Ive been waiting 2 months now for an appointment! I went to see my GP today for some stronger pain killers and they agreed it seemed a long wait so they are chasing it up today. Fingers crossed I get somewhere soon ... before I die with jealously of you all getting fixed!!! ;D
Anna
Anna
Its so tough when you're waiting for things to happen as you are.
I remember a point when the clifton park clinic just couldn't give me reasons why there was no progress, i'm not impatient and we all know there is a system but something had obviously gone wrong.
At one point, I was calling in regularly because the phone calls they promised never happened.
Didn't seem to matter who I spoke to,the calls never came.,
I paid to see Mr Treacy privately, he then referred me directly to Birmingham NHS and I never looked back.
That's a very, very, brief account of how it worked for me and when you say about the GP 'chasing it up', I just hope you're not still in the middle of the saga where no-one can give you any kind of firm answer.
That phrase seems to get used a lot in our NHS along with-
He/She is not in today, I'll make sure the message gets passed on.
Leave that one with me, I'll get back to you.
It's not me that usually deals with this, I'll ............
Sorry if that sounds like a bit of a rant Anna, but I know where you're at!
But, once things started moving for me, I saw Mr T in Birmingham end of May, and I'm sat in the garden typing this in August, so just don't get too down.
Keep at them and you WILL have pain free hips.
I'm in Huntington, Anna-if you ever wanted to talk, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Mike
Anna, do not wait on the GP's to do this for you. My advise would be to ring Mr O'Hara's secretary yourself and find out what's going on from the horses mouth. Mike is correct you may get fobbed off with different excuses. I literally bugged different secretaries until they gave me a firm answer.
I don't mean to sound like i'm telling you what to do, but I just know how important this is for you.
Huntington Mike? I drove through there yesterday lol.
Hi Mike and Anna, it is such a treadmill, our young age works against us but you have to keep going Anna, we are all with you every step of the way. Can you investigate the THR option concurrently? Is it worth going back to Mr T's office and telling them that the PAO is unlikely, and ask what might options you have from a THR? He's the best there is, perhaps Mr O'H has already referred you back? Hang on sweetie, it must come soon. Xxxxx
Anna and anyone else with a lot of pain post op. Your body does not heal well when in pain and you definitely don't sleep well. I would be aggressive in contacting your surgeon or family doctor to get the proper pain relief. You might have to try different meds. Please get in touch with either and get some pain meds so you can be relaxed, be healing and get some sleep. It is really important.
Good Luck.
Pat
Unfortunatly Pat with our NHS system its not always that easy! >:(
Quote from: Anna on August 16, 2012, 06:01:56 AM
Hey thanks Mike. Ive suffered for over 6 years now. I just couldnt imagine a life without the pain to be honest. I gave up running 6 years ago when it was diagnosed so I suppose its just not part of my life anymore. I could live with that if it meant I would be pain free. Im really chuffed for you. Everytime I see a guy on crutches hobbling round York over the next few weeks I will be shouting Mike to see if I get a reaction! ;D
Hern, I went to see Mr T in June and he said that I wasnt suitable for HR. My femour is too straight and all the angles are wrong. He said it just wasnt an option .... and you cant argue with that coming from Mr T. I have two options left, a PAO or a THR. Im waiting for an appointment to see a specialist for the PAO but I doubt I will be suitable as they only work if OA isnt too bad. It may be an option for my left hip but im sure its not an option for my right. Im 99% sure its too far gone and I will need a THR. I can see the OA on the x rays and my surgeon in York told me 'dont build your hopes up as I can see the OA, but we still have to explore all options'.
Ive been waiting 2 months now for an appointment! I went to see my GP today for some stronger pain killers and they agreed it seemed a long wait so they are chasing it up today. Fingers crossed I get somewhere soon ... before I die with jealously of you all getting fixed!!! ;D
Anna
Well, Anna - as you can see with Mike, the only thing that matters is to get rid of the pain. Each hip is its own thing, so one with HR and another with THR or a mini hip of some sort or both THR, the goal is to be pain free and to live life. I feel really good for Mike, Sal, Ruby and I know I will for you as well.
You'll get there and get on with a happy life.
Rant away Mike! I do enjoy a good rant. I think thats a Yorkshire thing ;)
I know what you mean. Ive have some nightmare times with York hospial, the clifton park clinic and Harrogate ... but theres one thing I can say and that is that my GP is an absolute legend. I know alot of people have had massive problems with trying to get referred, pain relief, etc etc (Danny in particular I think had alot of problems with his GP!) but I couldnt ask more from mine. Everything I have asked him to do, he has done for me and more. I also went to see Mr T privately who then sent a letter to my GP asking for me to be referred to the ROH. In the mean time my GP was doing his own research and sending letters off to lots of surgeons and mates. A few weeks later HE RANG ME!!! I didnt even make an appointment, he rang me telling me about all his research and his findings and about the letter Mr T had sent and asked me what I wanted to do. When I said I wanted to be referred to the ROH he cracked on and did it. No problems. So, im pretty sure he will be chasing it all up with the ROH. I will wait a week or so and see what happens. If I dont hear anything then I will ring myself.
Anyway, I now have a massive bag of pain killers to consume. Apparently they are opiates based. ... best let my work know in case they are planning on doing some drugs tests! Could get myself into a bit of trouble there!
Im chuffed everyone is doing so well. It gives me hope too! I feel this year is going to end on a high and next year will be a new beginning for us all :D
Anna
P.S. Mike, you should change your stamp on the bottom of your messages now. "Hippy to be. I hope!" Is no longer correct! :)
Quote from: Anna on August 16, 2012, 12:28:02 PM
Rant away Mike! I do enjoy a good rant. I think thats a Yorkshire thing ;)
I know what you mean. Ive have some nightmare times with York hospial, the clifton park clinic and Harrogate ... but theres one thing I can say and that is that my GP is an absolute legend. I know alot of people have had massive problems with trying to get referred, pain relief, etc etc (Danny in particular I think had alot of problems with his GP!) but I couldnt ask more from mine. Everything I have asked him to do, he has done for me and more. I also went to see Mr T privately who then sent a letter to my GP asking for me to be referred to the ROH. In the mean time my GP was doing his own research and sending letters off to lots of surgeons and mates. A few weeks later HE RANG ME!!! I didnt even make an appointment, he rang me telling me about all his research and his findings and about the letter Mr T had sent and asked me what I wanted to do. When I said I wanted to be referred to the ROH he cracked on and did it. No problems. So, im pretty sure he will be chasing it all up with the ROH. I will wait a week or so and see what happens. If I dont hear anything then I will ring myself.
Anyway, I now have a massive bag of pain killers to consume. Apparently they are opiates based. ... best let my work know in case they are planning on doing some drugs tests! Could get myself into a bit of trouble there!
Im chuffed everyone is doing so well. It gives me hope too! I feel this year is going to end on a high and next year will be a new beginning for us all :D
Anna
My GP was wonderful too. I had 3 of them on the go at one point! They were good with the pain relief too, but towards the end nothing was working for the pain and I'd pretty much tried everything. The last thing I had were Opium patches, but I only got the prescription the day before I got my surgery date so I didn't see much point in getting them. x
Just done it Anna, good spot. I forgot about it.
Sounds like your GP is excellent-you've got someone pushing the system, that's good to hear.
So, once you get that call or letter from Birmigham, you're on the way to this fantastic pain free life.
Like hern says, each hip is different but Ronan Treacy will give you the best possible outcome possible, no doubt about it.
If you're in a position to accept a cancellation, things could happen really quickly like Ruby.
Something else I thought of Anna- If I'm healing like this at 50, you're gonna fly!
I'll keep everything except my right leg crossed for you!
How you feeling Mike? x
Ruby
I never thought I'd feel so good this soon after, the first night home was a struggle but I had a long car ride like you.
The last hour in the car was awful, my stocking had dropped down round my ankle with me propping my foot up and squirming around, so my calf was swollen and painfull.
I should have taken some medication but didn't, and at about 3am Monday, I was honestly thinking 'what have I done',
but that was my low point (I hope).
After getting back to sleeping and eating properly, I feel so full of energy and enthusiasm.
I've not felt this way for about 2 years when I was playing squash and generally very active.
How about you, Ruby? Have you started to feel 'normal' again? I hope so.
Quote from: Mike D on August 16, 2012, 02:27:56 PM
Ruby
I never thought I'd feel so good this soon after, the first night home was a struggle but I had a long car ride like you.
The last hour in the car was awful, my stocking had dropped down round my ankle with me propping my foot up and squirming around, so my calf was swollen and painfull.
I should have taken some medication but didn't, and at about 3am Monday, I was honestly thinking 'what have I done',
but that was my low point (I hope).
After getting back to sleeping and eating properly, I feel so full of energy and enthusiasm.
I've not felt this way for about 2 years when I was playing squash and generally very active.
How about you, Ruby? Have you started to feel 'normal' again? I hope so.
I agree. The last hour in the journey home was the worst. I was in agony even though I was up to date with my meds. Was just glad to be home and I think I just collapsed on my bed and slept. I was crying out for some decent food too... the food at the ROH was poor to say the least!
I've had several points today where I thought 'was surgery a good idea??' I could at least move before. But I know that I will improve with time and it will take patience. I'm still sleeping a lot, very little energy thus far and quite tearful :( I don't know when my normality will come back, but I hope soon! I don't think it helped that my BHR wasn't straight forward, I was longer in theatre and my scar is going to be huge... about 12-13inches the nurses said.
I have the nurse coming out to me tomorrow for a wound check. x
Maybe it will take another day or two then Ruby, but it will come.
The healing for our different surgeries is about the same so it won't be long before you start to feel much better.
From what hern, tin, danny , pat, etc say, sleep is a huge part of the process so sounds to me like you need a bit more yet.
Mr T gave me a lovely neat scar, get a mirror ready to admire yours!
Yes Mike, please dont cross your right leg. I do not want to be getting the blame for something going wrong!!!!
.... and dont forget you guys, its tradition to post pictures of your arses and your new scars on this site. Every new hippy has to do it. Be proud! ;D
Quote from: Anna on August 16, 2012, 04:46:32 PM
Yes Mike, please dont cross your right leg. I do not want to be getting the blame for something going wrong!!!!
.... and dont forget you guys, its tradition to post pictures of your arses and your new scars on this site. Every new hippy has to do it. Be proud! ;D
Haha! Well I have a picture of the bruising and swelling, but my scar is still covered so will take one ASAP! x
Does anyone know if there is crucial period when a THR is most at risk of dislocation?
I know when I researched the BHR a lot of people talked about a certain period of time post op that the femoral head was at it's weakest and wondered if there is anything similar about a THR.
I've had 3 'dodgy' moments so far,1 in hospital and 2 at home, where I've let my leg flop in further than I should.
I'm that used to having a stiff arthritic hip and it now feels so strange to have so much more movement.
I'm very aware of it and the more I do the exercises, the less likely I feel that something will happen as it gets stronger but dislocation in the early stages was my biggest fear by a mile about having THR.
I think that dislocation is largely dependent on the size of the femoral head. The larger headed THR's dont have the dislocation issues that the old small ball THR's used to.
Out of interest which THR did you end up getting?
Danny
Hi Mike, my surgeon was adamant that I shouldn't cross the midline in the first 4-6 weeks. I've got a pretty big head (ha, on the femur!) so I reckon that should probably apply across the THR board. Take care, I've heard it said that the pain from a dislocation is not to be experienced. Afterwards you either have to have a revision and a brace or just a brace, neither being the most fun things I can imagine. You'll be ok, just be careful, we have a lot of life left in us now that we are bionic! X
Danny-
The registrar told me it is large ball ceramic/cross poly cup. I meant to discuss it further with him but I was so sick during both his visits that I didn't get a chance.
I'm going to contact Mr T by email tomorrow as I'd like to know the exact size myself.
Sal-
I don't like the sound of a brace. Is this a temporary, external device, or is it permanent surgery?
Disclocation is something that frightens me also. Although I've had a BHR and Danny kindly told me that Mr T has NEVER had a BHR dislocate, but like you I had a incident - just before I was wheeled down to xray actually! Could have been the reason you saw me so out of it!! - where my leg rolled too far to my right and the sensation felt so weird! Like a ball rolling around a socket... made me feel quite ill! I really thought I'd done some damage.
Hi Mike, the brace is external but v uncomfortable. I think your muscles will be holding your BHR in better now, Ruby. Don't forget the stretching of all ligaments to take the femoral head out and cap it, but your two hip parts now have a fab new metal coating, and will be snugly resting together. I think the pressure holding the two sides together is less with a THR because the distance between the neck of the femur and the acetabular cup will probably be changed. Just my imagining, for an explanation, but I know it doesn't feel great. Mike, larger heads = less risk of dislocation. We should be fine, but I'm not taking any chances!
Sal
Whats your view long term regarding restrictions?
Will you relax after the initial 6 week period or phase in certain things like toe in/out?
I think, as a joiner, that it may be wise to be extra careful for the first few months when I eventually start back work,
I'm not considering returning until 12 weeks minimum.
Mr Treacy did say the hip he would give me would allow me to return to" crawling around in confined spaces", but I'm sure the first couple of times will be very nervy times!
I know for me i'm going to be very nervous about coming off the crutches! Full weight bearing etc, let alone getting back to my hobbies... Ballroom/latin dancing etc.
You guys are starting to scare me!!! Dislocations, excruciating pain, revisions, braces .... I dont think I want any treatment anymore. In fact, my hips all of a sudden seem perfetly fine. Damn, if anyone will dislocate their new hip it will be me. I too bouncy, stupid, accident prone and idiotic. I tore my cartilage in my knee bouncing on a space hopper, I sliced my thigh fallng out of bed and landing on a water glass, I knocked myself out unconcious riding my horse under a low branch and I wrote my car off last year by crashing into the side of my parents pub. Not only that but I always stand with my toes turned in. Its my natural stance :'(
Ruby, you won't think about it after 12 months, you'll be shaking that booty in the Latin and gliding beautifully with the ballroom (can you tell I watched strictly first season?). Mike, long term dont worry, I will be cautious and concious especially in odd contortions 1 year and beyond, normal manoeuvres I won't think about post 1 year. I am very cautious and was with my resurfacing too, but honestly i forget that it isn't naturally mine now. I think our thrs will be just as good but we might need to be a bit more aware to begin with. They are large headed, they were installed by the best in the business, we've just got to do our bit too. ;)
You've just posted, Anna, I'm in fits of giggles! You live in a pub?!?, we are all coming over for the inaugural surface hippy convention! You crack me up! Xx
Anna i wouldnt worry too much about dislocation etc. You will be under the care of an EXCELLENT surgeon in Mr O Hara! The large head THR's have a very very low dislocation rate.
Glad ive cheered you up Sal! :) Yup, my parents own a pub in the heart of Yorkshire in the middle of nowhere. The locals speak their own language that not even I understand and ive lived here for the best part of 25 years!!! I suppose thats one plus point of having to move back home last week due to my rubbish disablility ..... good food and free beer ... every cloud has a silver lining. Any hippy is welcome!
Danny - very low dislocation rate is not the same as zero x
Even the natural hip has a dislocation rate hun. Im pretty sure the large head thr's have the same dislocation rates as the natural hip ie 1 in 1000 x
Hmmmm, well if your sure ... but its still those first 6 weeks. They dont give you a 90 rule for nothing! ::)
I'm not saying don't be careful but I don't think that the problem is a big one. Speak to Mr O he will know the score far better than any of us ;) I think he was involved in the delta motion hip so he's not too shabby at his job ;D
Hey Anna, 6 weeks after your 7 years of pain. It's a trade off. You 'll be alright, we can clear away all the space hoppers, low branches, errant walls etc ;D. There's going to be a monster piss up at your pub when you're fixed, we'll all come! Xxxx
6 weeks of being careful is a fine trade off for being out of OA for the rest of your life ;-) Mr OH will know better than all of us, so go by him :) x
Just think Anna, Nick Skelton won Olymic Gold after both a THR and a broken neck. ANYTHING is possible. You are a positive girl, you have enough get up and go to fuel a rocket. You're going to be fine xx
Sorry about all the negative vibes, Anna.
Not enough sleep = too much time to convince yourself that you're the exeption to the rules!
Nothing wrong with discussing this, Mike - it's a real issue and one of the things we need to watch for, it is good to know the statistics (from the Australian registry, over ten years), which are a very low incidence. After three years, for THRs the rate flattens out.
Dislocation happens at a rate of about 1-2% for small head THRs, about 0.5 to 1% for large head THRs. For those of us it happens to, it's obviously a serious thing and can lead to a revision.
It does happen much more often earlier in recuperation in THRs, but on the whole is not the highest reason for revision. It accounts for about 20% of all THR revisions.
Sorry guys, thats just my silly sense of humour coming through. I was just trying to make everyone smile. I guess its hard to get that accross through email whe you dont know me! :o Dislocation is probably my biggest worry yes, for the rasons I said, but not enough to lose sleep over so keep talking! I want to know more Mike!!!!
Good statistics there Hern :)
Anna-
I'm not sure my last message came across as intended-funny sometimes when you read it back and think it sounds different than you meant!
When I'm sat up at 3a.m, can't get comfy, watching rubbish on TV, I'll look on here at some of the sections that don't get as many posts: revisions, infection, dislocations etc.
I then find I get fairly negative about my surgery and I'ts too easy to think the worst.
However, when morning comes and the sun shines, things are so different- everything is positive and I wonder why I thought that way.
Then I realise that they don't get as many posts because there arn't too many problems overall.
At those times, I love to read any comments on the forum by the voices of experience- hern, danny, sal, bliss etc. Anyone, in fact, who have had these same issues.
This site is so good for the soul!
I agree. This site has been a god send during some of my 'darker' moments both before and after surgery.
I have suffered with the post-op blues for sure, but reading the kind, positive comments from Anna, Danny, Hern, Mike, Sal, Suze, Pat etc have been wonderful for morale.
Thank you all. I wish we all lived closer so we could have a big Hippy meet! Mike and I almost did lol! x
Got the clips out today-feels a lot different walking without them pinching.
I keep looking down at the wound site , it still looks huge but still very early I suppose so I'm not entertaining any negative thoughts about it!
Feels better doesn't it? I just wish I could get past the worry of it opening, I keep checking it!! :D
Clips out for me tomorrow! Another milestone! x
Sounds all good guys ;D
Hi all-
I've been wondering how the recent hippys have been doing as the hospital pain meds have ended.
I thought I'd give it a go at toughing it out and just take a couple of parecetemol as and when, but it didn't work out.
I went back to see my doc yesterday after a really uncomfortable night, and got some proper painkillers again, its so much better.
Hope you're all pain free and making progress.
Also, I've found that doing the exercises three times a day, just slow and steady, not pushing too far, makes a big difference.
I can feel the strength coming back each time I lift my leg up. There's been a few times I'd rather not do them but it's well worth it.
I'm with you Mike on the excercises, slow and steady. I've been lucky on the pain front. It's swollen and tender and the worst bit is the weight shift when your bum touches the chair until you are sitting spreading the pressure ;).
I've been taking regular paracetamol, the odd ibroprufen and one Tramadol at night. Things are definitely on the up, I woke up uncomfortable last night but instead of the first thought being more pills, I was just annoyed at the irritating song going round in my head. Got up to go to the loo, stretch a bit and got back to sleep for a further hour until I needed to move BUT, I didn't take any more pills. I think I was taking so much pre op, my body is just enjoying being free of chemicals. I can't wait for the day that I can put all the strong painkillers back to the pharmacist and shut the paracetamol and ibroprufen away until the odd headache or hangover requires them.
Oh the song if anyone is bored enough... " santa's a Scotsman" my children's hilarious favourite from last Christmas. In August? I must be Xmas panicking subconsciously :D
Santa's a Scotsman?
where did that come from, Sal? A Ken Bruce favourite, I believe!
Am busy deleting it off the iPod, last year it was on continuous repeat! For the first 20 plays it was funny .......
I shall have to write to Ken!
I've been a naughty girl with the exercises... done them about twice since i've been home which is a little over a week now. Must do them more!
I've just got a new prescription of Dihydracodeine as since I ran out of what the Hospital gave me, Paracetamol on their own just weren't cutting it, so hopefully should get more rest now.
Been having such a tearful couple of days. Been feeling very low and blue. Had a lovely chat on the phone with Suze last night - a quick chat turned into 3 hours!
The blues will hit you, Ruby - just part of the package, unfortunately, just have to go through them and then tell them to mosey along. Good strategy to talk to friends, watch fun movies.
The exercises helped me with the blues, since I could see the progress, it kept bringing my spirits up.
Aw, Ruby, glad Suze was there. Keep the pain meds going, healing happens best when you are not stressed.
If you are very sore you could always do the bed ones? Knee up and back, leg out to side and back plus buttock clenches and towel under knee, straighten leg ( pushing knee into towel). But don't stress about it, the main thing is that you don't get stiffness in the muscles. How was the clip / staples removal?
Fingers crossed the codeine works xxx
Thanks Hern, I was trying to prepare myself for the post-op blues as I knew they would hit at some stage. I think being stuck at home and not being able to get out and about has played a part. I've never been a good patient!
Sal - The clip removal was virtually pain free thankfully! I don't know what I was worrying over :) The nurse was very gentle and she actually praised Mr T's handy work and she said most surgeons put the staples far too close together making the removal of them more painful then they need be x
It will be easier to do the exercises now you aren't being pinched too, I found that I'd left my exercises alone for the last few days of the clips, due to pulling and pinching. You sound a wee bit happier, I remember someone's comment about the depression not being able to hit a moving target, being busy helps. I've cleaned out my fish and am sewing now. Walked the 200yrds to school and back today, first time I've made it to the playground since January. All the kids have shot up and there are a few new dogs too (I missed the puppy stage tho :( )
We've invited the neighbours over for a Friday drink too, it's great to start seeing people..... Although they ALL want to see my scar ::)
Show them the scar Sally!!!!
Keep it up Ruby and do them freekin' excersises!!! I totally understand the post surgery blues. Its one of my big worries but you have to think ahead. It will only be a few more weeks till you are out and about again. Try get out for a few little walks. Even if it not far. I thinkt he fresh air will help lots :)
You have my number x x x
Hi all
Looking through the recent posts, it looks like there's a few people struggling a bit on the road to recovery.
Me too, last two days.
I got some awful lower back pain for one night/day but thats ok now thanks to rubbing somw Voltarol gel in-it worked really well.
Once that had passed, just a few comfortable hours later, one of the most painful things to date kicked in-constipation.
Not a pleasant topic for sure, but the pain I had with this yesterday was so great that I wanted to warn anyone not to take it lightly.
With all we've been through, I don't think anyone cares about discussing such an unpleasant thing- anyone suffering-act fast.
I never want to feel that kind of pain again!
Glad to say all is well now-looking forward to getting back to the exercises and progressing again.
I think it was hern who suggested getting a diary going to log progress, I'm gonna give it a go then these setbacks won't seem like a big deal spread over the week.
It's a long hard road mike. I as you know am still having set backs at 9 months. I personally don't care how long the road is so long as I get to the destination where I want to be.
We'll all get there Danny!
Been there, Mike, yowch, not fun. Lactulose syrup with its unpleasant keep visitors away effects, or dried apricots are the remedies. Or even a very hot curry! Good idea about the diary. I'm going o go and sit in the car over the next few weeks, to practice using the pedals (right foot quite important for us UK drivers!) I reckon building that into the exercise regime will help.
My incision is still pretty sore but I know it's better than last week. Are your exercises going ok? I can't do one of mine as too much pressure on my knees (oh Crikey I'm falling apart!). :o
Sal-
just been outside doing exercises now as it happens-feels good.
There's a noticeable improvement in how high I can lift my leg by bending at the knee and I find getting in/out of bed easy now which can only be down to the exercises.
I'm not pushing hard at anything though, slow and steady.
I wish we all lived closer and could meet up somewhere-think of the moaning and complaining all in one room!
Keep going you new hippys, we'll all get there-maybe just at different times.
Ooooh, glad your over that one Mike!!!! It doesnt sound to plesant ??? Sounds like you are now doing well though.
Thats a great idea Sal, look to the future and start to think about driving. I use to do that as a kid ... I used to sit in the car and pretend to be driving. Great fun. Dont forget to make the brum brum noises Sal or it will not have the same effect!
Anna
Heeheee, Brum Brum!
We must all meet up in Anna's pub! UK hippies and hippy hopefuls, just make sure you hide all the space hoppers, Anna, these hippies are a competetive lot, we 'll all end up racing across the car park! ;D
Quote from: Mike D on August 27, 2012, 03:56:19 AM
I think it was hern who suggested getting a diary going to log progress, I'm gonna give it a go then these setbacks won't seem like a big deal spread over the week.
I think that was johnC, one of the awesome hippys here.
I'm so looking forward to getting back into my car! It's an automatic so really it shouldn't take that long ;D
The conditions my surgeon gave me were:
- Can you get in and out of the car without a problem.
- Can you move your foot from the accelerator to the brake and back smoothly
I got to that point at about 2, 2 1/2 weeks both times, I was a bit more nervous about the right, since that controls the pedals, but not a problem.
Happy driving, Ruby! how are you feeling now? How's the stairs and bed, etc.
Hi Hern,
Getting better and better each day :) The operated leg still feels like a lead weight though. Be glad when that lightens up.
Happy Anniversary Mike! 8)
3 weeks done, how cool is that? Xx
Three weeks already, It has flown by really.
Apart from maybe six long uncomfortable nights and a couple of bad days early on, things have gone well.
I'm trying to phase the strong painkillers out, keep up with the exercises and not sit around too much and so far, it's working out.
I can see how people get tempted into doing too much too soon- I know I could walk easily without the crutches but I'm not gonna try it. Three more weeks and I'll look forward to handing them back in at ROH!
Stick to the plan Mike use me as an example of what can happen if you don't.
Jas
Good work, Mike - keep it up.
Time sure flies when you're having fun! Can't quite believe it's 3 weeks for me tomorrow too!
I know, Ruby - compared to how you were before the surgery and the fight you went through, I'm really glad about where you are now.
I overdone it yesterday though, Hern. I thought it would be a good idea to go into town for a couple of hours.... Boy, was that a mistake! I ache all over today. Haven't really moved much as everything hurts!
Prime example there peeps, of trying to do too much, too soon!
Glad to hear you are all doing great! Keep it up ;D
Quote from: rubyred on August 29, 2012, 12:20:56 PM
I overdone it yesterday though, Hern. I thought it would be a good idea to go into town for a couple of hours.... Boy, was that a mistake! I ache all over today. Haven't really moved much as everything hurts!
Prime example there peeps, of trying to do too much, too soon!
We all overdo it, ruby - just part of the recuperation. It comes from all sorts of places - the enforced inactivity before, the great possibilities now that the pain is clearing up, our shy and reserved personalities. Ice, rest, elevate and you still want to move when you can, just avoid the pain. You'll be good in no time.
Quote from: Anna on August 29, 2012, 01:07:54 PM
Glad to hear you are all doing great! Keep it up ;D
We want you there too, Anna. Keep up the good fight, you'll be there.
Thanks Hern. Maybe one day :)
The call of retail therapy Ruby!! Have a good rest, try next time for going for just an hour:)
Been exhausted myself today from doing "new things" went to bed at 8pm!! :)
You wouldn't catch me overdoing it. ::) Trouble is you feel good so you do a bit more, you feel bad so you rest. Then you feel good again and forget how you felt last time you over did it. so you overdo it again.
But hopefully each time you do over do it as long as you don't take it to extremes, it will take more to over do it next time. If you get my drift.
Jas (Mr too much too soon)
You crack me up Jas with your quips :) True words indeed!!
Back to work! Well, kind of.
The last two days, I've been back supervising my son who works with me- just sitting in an easy chair and occasionaly getting up to advise on some floor laying work.
It feels good to have something else to think about and it beats daytime TV- I never realised it was that bad.
How many different firms of accident lawyers do we have in this country? Must be three figures!
Yeah, I'm bored rigid, have watched all Sorts of rubbish on net flicks. Still in quarantine with the lergy. Good for you, Mike, back to life in the great outdoors. Don't over do it tho!
Anyone else dying to get back into the land of the living??? I don't think I've ever been this bored as I have been this week! x
It seems to me like the world stopped for a few weeks for the surgery, but when I've stepped back in, nothing's changed!
One of the best things was getting out of the van at the end of the day and not having to stretch and loosen up my arthritic hip.
No limping into the house and wondering what to do about it. It feels like a totally fresh start- long may it continue.
That's great Mike, your new beginning has begun.
Great news Mike! You are doing well :)
Wish you better Sal
Ruby, am sure you`ll feel good again soon :)
Congrats, Mike - one of many improvements coming.
Good on ya Mike! Glad to read you're improving so much! ;D x
How goes things Mike?
Hi Ruby
It's going really well, thanks. Hope its the same with you. I'm back at work with my son-not actually doing anything, just dictating from a comfy chair!
The job is local so no problems travelling, and I can do everything there that I can do at home-apart from sneaking an afternoon nap in.
It's good to have something else to think about but It's also tempting to help out so I'm forcing myself to stay in the seat!
Can't wait to ditch the crutches in a couple of weeks and hopefully try some swimming and possibly get on the exercise bike for a short spell.
I'm hoping to see you at ROH in a couple of weeks if we're there at the same time.
I know you've had a few bad days but glad you're on the up now. Stick in there, Ruby.
It definately has been a tough few days, but I've been out and about a little more which has helped. Seeing people and just getting some fresh air has been good.
Still having trouble with my groin muscle though. Very, very sore and it's preventing me from bending the leg up and down. But i'm shuffling about a little more without crutches, albeit very slowly! Hopefully may be off them soon.
I see Mr T on the 19th, but the time escapes me!
Hi all-
Hope everyone is as pain free as can be and taking it easy.
I'm off the codeine and just taking a paracetemol as and when required and its not been as bad as I thought.
A few twinges, and some pain in the night but its tolerable so I'm happy to be taking less pills.
What still surprises me is the confident feeling of having a good night that is blown away when the next night is tough!
Every time I have a good night, I think I've cracked it. Looking back through the diary shows the progress though-thanks to whoever had that suggestion.
I've set myself three targets, to do in any order- get off the crutches, go swimming and get back on the exercise bike.
Then a holiday! Can't wait.
Quote from: Mike D on September 10, 2012, 01:06:57 PM
Hi all-
Hope everyone is as pain free as can be and taking it easy.
I'm off the codeine and just taking a paracetemol as and when required and its not been as bad as I thought.
A few twinges, and some pain in the night but its tolerable so I'm happy to be taking less pills.
What still surprises me is the confident feeling of having a good night that is blown away when the next night is tough!
Every time I have a good night, I think I've cracked it. Looking back through the diary shows the progress though-thanks to whoever had that suggestion.
I've set myself three targets, to do in any order- get off the crutches, go swimming and get back on the exercise bike.
Then a holiday! Can't wait.
Glad to hear you're doing so well!
Night times are my worst. I just cannot get comfortable! I'm lucky in that I can now lay on my un-operated side and on my front, but I still figit and twitch about like you wouldn't believe! Kinda thankful I don't have to share the bed with anyone or they wouldn't be getting much sleep lol.
Believe it or not, your three targets are mine too! I'm down to one crutch, but I can shuffle around carefully without... definately not enough to come off them completely though. I'm on and off the meds like you wouldn't believe though I can go some days without taking anything.
Got to encourage the small victories though - we'll get there!!
Just keep plugging away, Ruby. It will definately come.
I've had a few strange moments where major doubt has crept in to my thoughts-on at least three occasions I've wished I could turn the clock back and not have the surgery but they've all been in the dead of night when I've been in pain.
After a couple of codeine, when I've loosened up, I feel great and wonder what I was thinking about!
The worst times are through the night without a doubt.
After a week at home I got myself convinced that something had slipped as my hip looked enormous-I then read Jason's post where that actually happened and had a couple of dark days dwelling on it.
I nearly rang the ROH but then thought- I haven't slipped, walked without crutches, bashed it, nothing.
I thought about Mr T's track record, looked through the old recovery posts here and was finally satisfied that I'm ok.
I think if we could all meet up and talk face to face, we would all put one anothers minds at rest and share our odd thoughts.
The speed of recovery for different people seems amazing sometimes- I know of a builder who had a THR early this year and went back to work three weeks to the day of his surgery!
He's climbing ladders, laying bricks-pretty much everything he was doing before. I think he's mad but I heard last week he's doing great, no pain, no limping.
I just hope he doesn't end up with an early revision because of it.
All I'm doing is sitting on a chair watching my son work-no way could I do anything manual yet.
Like you say-We'll get there.
I think i'd be OK if this groin pain would go. I can cope with everything else LOL.
I had the six week check up today at Birmingham and the news was good.
I saw Mr Treacy's registrar who told me they 'enjoyed fixing my challenging hip'! It was difficult to do because of my awkward anatomy, but not only has he regained the 10mm leg length difference exactly, he has got back the slight twist of alignment I had in the femur.
Even looking down at my leg straight after the surgery I could tell I was straighter, but to see the x-ray and have it explained was amazing.
I've got an Oxynium ball in a poly cross- linked liner which he tells me is the most stable, long lasting joint available.
I've done a fair bit of research regarding resurfacing and THR's but not heard of Oxynium so far. I'll be googling it to death now, but If anyone has any info about it, I'd love to hear.
Glad you had good news, Mike :)
That's good news mike! Oxinium is if my memory serves me correctly a metal which has undergone a process which transforms the surface microns into ceramic. Therefore you'll get the benefits of the strength of metal and the low wear of ceramic ;D
Great news, Mike!
Yey! Ive just googled your new hip Mike. It looks like a pretty good bit of kit :)
Glad things are going well :)
Well done Mike, glad you had good news and put your mind at rest. Its easy to let the doubts and uncertainties take over in the wee small hours so I'm sure that your check up will put your mind at rest. Ka
Hi all-
Just got back from my first swimming session since surgery-what a great feeling!
I'm still on one crutch as I can't quite walk straight without it yet, but what a difference in the water- apart from the lack of ROM, it felt really strong.
I've been on the exercise bike a fair bit and hopefully get on the road bike at the weekend, so its happy days!
Ah I remember the pool the first time it was lovely!
It's great isn't it Mike?!
I had my first session last week and although I couldn't manage to swim exactly, being in the water and doing exercises was wonderful :) Going again tomorrow!
Good on you ruby! That's progress and will really help you recover!
Woo hoo. Sounds like all is well. Do you all go to walk in pools or can you manage those awful steps?? I may have to change my gym if I ever get an op!!
I went to Yearsley Baths, Anna-I'm sure you know it well!
They have some big steps that they put in place when it's an open swim and I found it easy to get in and out.
Very slippy round the edges though, made me a bit nervous at first. No probs though.
Yep, one local pool has a big slope that leads into the centre of the pool. It's a bit tretcherous walking too and from the changing rooms though but I have a friend with me who holds my arm, bless her.
I used my enormous 6'3" son for the same Purpose,Ruby-I knew he'd be useful one day!
I used to take him to the very same pool 20 years ago and hold him up-the roles were reversed last night-it felt a bit odd!
I know where Yearsley baths is Mike but ive never been. It may end up being my local though as my gym pool only has those awful ladder type things to get in and out. I think that could be a bit difficult and an extra worry!! .... thats even if I ever get fixed. Sigh.
You will, Anna. One way or another. Have faith in your new surgeon.
You'll get there Anna... I want you fixed when my daughter does a university term in London, I expect to visit and maybe do a gathering of hippies.
Count me in Hern! (On the codition that there will be beer) ;D
Hippy gathering in London!? I'm in! It's only 45 mins for me!
Spare some room for a chubby ginger!
Hey, gathering in London... Hell yes. ;D
2.5 hours for me but with prior warning.
This hippy gathering could happen!
Seeing as its on my thread, I'll get the ball rolling-who would definately go?
I'd love the chance to see if my mental picture of everyone fits!
I'd definately be up for a meet, London would be ok for me-2 hrs on a train. Sometime in November or very early December is good with me but even January is ok.
Put your name down here!
We have to wait until Herns daughter goes to uni Mike! I would defo be up for it as long as it doesntclash with any operation I may recieve :)
If i'm invited, stick my name down :)
Just caught this one..can I come too? London's me 'manor'!
Toby
ps when you show me yours and I show you mine..I'll also include my Achilles scar!
So come on hern when will your good daughter be coming to London so we can arrange this thing! :D
The London Hippy Convention!
A quick count just from this thread-
Anna
Ruby
Sal
hern
Danny
Toby
Jason
Me
It might be hard to sort a date when everyone could make it together but you never know.
Any other hippys/ THR's, pre or post op, just add your name and we may be able to make it happen.
I am jealous. I want to come, too! But, it's a long way across the pond. If you do get together, be sure to take some photos or video for the website. The UK Surface Hippies ;D
Have fun. I hope it happens.
If you do get a date and place set, I will post it on the main website and www.hipresurfacingnew.com (http://www.hipresurfacingnew.com) and maybe www.hipsforyou.com (http://www.hipsforyou.com) so everyone can see it. Not everyone reads thru all the threads here. There might be some wanna bees that will want to meet you all and ask questions, never know.
Pat
Pat you are always welcome this side of the pond!
If/when we get a meet organised it would be great if you could put it on your sites! As you say some potential patients might want to meet some post op hippies
Quote from: Anna on September 29, 2012, 01:30:42 AM
We have to wait until Herns daughter goes to uni Mike! I would defo be up for it as long as it doesntclash with any operation I may recieve :)
Quote from: Dannywayoflife on September 29, 2012, 01:30:42 AM
So come on hern when will your good daughter be coming to London so we can arrange this thing! :D
;)
She is now in the middle of her second year, she plans on doing it in her third. I threatened to move in with her, will go at least once to visit her. No need to wait for me to gather and enjoy, I'll gladly join a second, third, umpteenth hippie gathering.
Hern
Out of teacherly interest, what is your daughter studying and which uni?
Toby
She's studying Molecular Biology at Amherst College, with a laser like goal of attending medical school, which anyone not desiring injury will avoid impeding, given her ambitious nature.
She's also dancing in their dance performances and plans on being the first dermatologist and supermodel. At least that's what she told me when she was seven and as far as I know, has not changed her mind.
We want you to come too Pat!!!!! I will take lots of photos. I get a bit snap happy so people will hate me for it! :)
Wow, Hern ..... a dancing, good looking surgeon as a daughter?!! You need not work another day again!! She could be the next Ronan Treacy or Vijay Bose!! I hope you are being nice to her as she could be giving you some new wings in 30 years time (Not that you will need them as I distinctly remember you saying you were 'riding them babies into the sunset!' .... but its a good back up plan ;)
Count me in for a gathering of the Hippys. Would be great to meet up. Ka
Quote from: Anna on September 29, 2012, 02:11:24 PM
We want you to come too Pat!!!!! I will take lots of photos. I get a bit snap happy so people will hate me for it! :)
Wow, Hern ..... a dancing, good looking surgeon as a daughter?!! You need not work another day again!! She could be the next Ronan Treacy or Vijay Bose!! I hope you are being nice to her as she could be giving you some new wings in 30 years time (Not that you will need them as I distinctly remember you saying you were 'riding them babies into the sunset!' .... but its a good back up plan ;)
It has been a trial, Anna - both she and her sister are depressingly good looking (she is close to six feet tall). I tried to get them to tone down their looks in high school by buying them only plaid and convincing them they needed huge glasses to wear, so they wouldn't date and could baby sit, earning money for college. But my plan backfired since everyone thought they looked 'adorable' and copied them. The best laid plans of Hern and all that.
I think I will eventually have the healthiest skin ever. She is definitely a nagging daughter.
Hern,
Great when the kids are doing so well. What did you feed your kids?
When you're in London-I'll bring my eldest she's studying vetenary medicine at Bristol Uni-beautiful too at a wonderful 5foot 2!
BW
Toby
ps apologies Mike's original post has been hijacked but I guess it's cos of the happy sentiment
Hey toby, I fed them the usual stuff - bright dreams, embarrassing dad moments, thoroughly ignored advice, with a soupcon of hope and a dollop of incredibly overprotective black belt dad security.
In other words, typical dad stuff.
I'm sure my girl would love to meet yours. She is amazingly uncaring that her looks buy her anything, despite the fact that she knows the effect:
Vignette from the summer before high school: We went to a pizza parlor, where the kid taking orders dropped both his mouth open and any semblance of sense when we walked in - he stammered through my order, we paid and as we were leaving, she turned to me and said "I could have gotten that for free"; this brought the full dad in lecture mode out, which she chuckled at and said "I'm going to like high school". It's been downhill ever since.
Hello hipsters!
Hope everyone's doing well. I've just bought a wobble board after reading a few posts from people who rated them.
It seems like a bargain for a tenner, and combined with cycling and swimming I feel like I'm working muscles that must have been dormant for years!
Walking in the pool is as good an exercise as swimming but one of the best things so far at my local pool is the water inlet grille at about knee high in the shallow end- I can position my hip in front of it to get blasted with warm bubbly water-absolute bliss-you just have to contend with a few strange looks!
Ah the wobble board! Mine was awesome in helping my recovery! I used a wobble
Cushion I bought for a fiver from TKMAX ;D glad your doing well mike!
Danny
I've taken the swimming to a new level this last week and noticed a real difference.
We got a long awaited, much needed week in the sun and I got some long sessions in pool and sea every day.
The muscles told me it was working each evening, and I managed to put a sock on fairly comfortably by the end of the week, a small acheivement, but very pleasing!
At three months post op, I want to try and push on and lose the walking stick so I've fixed up some PT for some specialist help- I just hope I get a good one after some of the things I've read about here!
Nice to catch up with all the news here, I've missed it!
Ooooh, I have a wobble board! I got it when I hurt my knee. It sounds like it will come in handy again at some point!
Im glad to hear you are doing well Mike ... but im jealous of your holiday!!! Are you going to York for physio or are you going private?
Anna
Hi Anna,
It's NHS physio at York Hospital, just sent the form in today. If it takes too long to happen, I'll get a couple of private sessions.
You know the strange ways of the NHS,Anna- who knows when they'll be in touch!
Sounds like your doing great Mike! :)
Nice one Mike! Keep pushing on :)
Hope you are doing ok Mike. haven't heard from you in a while which must mean that you are off being Mike and being happy, I hope so.
Thanks Sal,
Yes, back to work and pretty much back to normal. Still a long way to go regarding muscle strength but I'm back crawling around fitting kitchens, laying floors,etc.
I still use a cane if I'm walking more than a few hundred yards as it takes all the pressure off the thigh which tightens up really quickly but thats about it.
What about you,Sal? Hope its going well.
I'm ticketyboo thanks, struggled pulling our heavy wheely bin up our 40yrd steep drive and still can't cross legs which I probably shouldn't do, but other than that, great. Still a bit weak but the gym should sort that out! Glad you are doing well.... Fitting kitchens, that's hard contortions!
YIPPEEEE! Glad to hear both my THR buddies are doing well ;D
Did you hear from York physio Mike?
They do it over the phone now and are due to call me next week. I think its to cut down on any unnecessary appointments, but I've left a message with your mate Jonny-I need to ring him back.
Hopefully he can get me back to strength, I'm looking forward to it!
I got a wobble board too!. When I went for re-hab and they used this. Go one for my birthday and I am now Queen of Wobble Board in our house, probably because I don't anyone else use it un-hassled.