4 Week Update & Observations

[fenceman]

I am 4 weeks from my R-BHR and feeling pretty good.  Hip feels good and I think I am either on or ahead of schedule compared to my left which was done 4-1/2 years ago.  Today is the first day that I do not feel exhausted 1/2 way through the day.  I had dropped to one crutch on Saturday and went back to 2 on Sunday after feeling sore and wiped-out.  Back to one crutch today and feeling strong.  May play with cane this weekend as long as I can do it without breaking the 75% weight bearing rule issued by my Dr.

My knee is still sore when I move it from side to side.  I feel they must have really torqued it during surgery.  It is slowly getting better.  Bruises are gone and I am surprised at how good my scar is healing.  Left one had staples but used the glue on latest one.

The 5 PT exercises that were given by Dr. are becoming easy.  I started riding the stationary bike without resistance for 20 min at a time on Monday.  Able to put on socks and tie shoes after 3-1/2 weeks without help.  So far I am pleased. 
Bill
 

[hernanu]

Excellent, Bill - keep up the good work.

[maxx6789]

sounds like an excellent 4 week report. being able to put on your own socks was one of my happiest post-recovery joys!!

are you going to outpatient PT? from my two operations, i found the outpatient PT helpful both times. the second outpatient PT, really pushed and challenged me.

best wishes to a speedy and successful recovery.

[fenceman]

Max, No outpatient PT.  Just exercises that I do 3 times a day as direct by the Dr.  The PT staff at the hospital worked with me on 3 exercise right after surgery and while I was there.  They then instructed me on 4 other exercises to do after 2 weeks until 6 weeks.  Was also allowed to ride stationary bike with no resistance. 

Compared to a knee or a shoulder, hip PT is relatively easy.  I know people that have had both and they describe passing out from the pain of trying to flex their knees.

[mustang4172]

Hi Bill,
I'm almost three weeks post op - I just had them both done.  I am feeling really tired 1/2 way thru the day.  Hoping 4 weeks is the magic number for me to stop feeling so darn exhausted.

[Dan L]

Bill,

Great to hear, sounds like you are ahead of the game.  Those exercises were all I did as well, and doing them religiously really helped me also.  The second one seemed so much easier.

Best regards for contined great recovery.

[fenceman]

Hi Mustang,  although we are all different, 4 weeks, 2 days was the day that I felt like I had my old energy back.  At 3-1/2 weeks I was still exhausted after a half day at my desk.  But I am only dealing with 1 repair at this time compared to your 2.  Each day you will feel better.  Good Luck.
Bill