Hi Folks,
I am 53 and had a severe case of lung COVID which pushed me over the edge with need for Dexamethasone, and a few months later I was diagnosed with AVN stage 2 bilaterally. L hip was worse went to Ste 4 and collapsed in Sept.2021, I had Dr. Gross give me a new L CC hip Nov 17 2021 and I am on slow recovery Post Op #16... . Any advice and any tips on slow recovery and healing are very needed. Thank you!
Dr M Hall
Hey brother, the best advice is start slow. Your hips need some time to heal and grow into your devices. I am bilateral BHR, one from Dr. Su at HSS, NYC. As you know already, the pain is gone--or it should be. Take your time, occupational stuff first--shoes, socks, bathroom, stairs, in and out of cars, grocery store with cart, short walks. Soon you will be walking for exercise but don't overdo it--let your body be your guide. If you want to walk, then walk. If you want to sit, then sit. If you want to lay down, then lay down. I am certain your sleep is better and that will help your lungs recover. Try and get off the pain killers and NSAIDS ASAP--they are likely habit more than need at this point of 30-days post op and will affect your bowel movements. Your scars are itching but should be nicely healing by now--keep them clean and don't be afraid to massage. Stretch out those hamstrings, floor stretching and get ups are great next step. I bought an ebike and I love it. It is low impact, makes you walk like a young man, and is fun to get out and do something athletic again. Your outlook will improve as pain and discomfort will subside. Take this time to give thanks. Best wishes to you and yours and Merry Christmas.
Warm regards,
Rick Reichard 60