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Doing well

Posted , 8 users are following.

jools2512
jools2512

So I'm day 22 post Left total hip replacement for severe Osteoarthritis. I can't believe how much better I feel both in myself as well as in my hip! Yes, I've a long way to go yet, and there are frustrations and discomfort - but I don't care!! To be out of horrific pain, to not be constantly tense and to get some quality sleep are life changing. At the moment I'm so glad I did it, and would do it again in a heartbeat! Obviously, all you 'hippies' are playing a huge part in my recovery too, so thank you all biggrin

2 likes, 11 replies

11 Replies

  • Treetee4
    Treetee4 jools2512

    Posted

    Great jools2512!! I am so excited for you!I feel the exact same way.When I got the diagnosis of OA in both hips I was devastated. As soon as the surgeon said hip replacement I said how soon!So 4 months post op my left hip and 1 month post op my right hip. I couldn't wait another year in between . One of the best decisions I made. Now the recovery is painful at times and slow, but its sooooo much better than not being able to walk or enjoy my 2yr.old grandson. I'm giving myself permission to feel at odds with the process but I know it will get better. This forum has been a tremendous blessing!Take care of yourself and stay focused and positive. Blessings! !Teresa

  • Rocketman_SG6UK
    Rocketman_SG6UK jools2512

    Posted

    So glad you are doing so well.  That's a great attitude you have to your recovery which must be helping you.

    As you say, being out of that pre-op pain is truly wonderful.

    Best wishes

    Graham

  • erin1956
    erin1956 jools2512

    Posted

    Jools:

    Yes, it is a great feeling. I am 2 weeks post on with rthr. And, I am 11 months post op for my lthr. Today I had s small set back when I started to ooze blood on the bottom of my incision. It's my body telling me that I am doing too much, too quickly. I should know better. The mantra less is more in the first 3 weeks is one I know and didn't listen as I should have.

    Anyway, you are so correct that the bone on bone pain is significantly worse than any healing aches and pains from surgery. I had direct anterior procedure for both and the results are spectacular!

    I just want to convey to hipsters who are stressing about or delaying surgery that it is a very correct decision to get this done ASAP and begin to enjoy life again.

    Take care,

    • betty07083
      betty07083 erin1956

      Posted

      Hi Erin,

      I noted that you had anterior approach, as did I, a week ago today.

      I've been doing very well, however the incision site & surrounding area has reddened and itches like crazy! I've got a bag of frozen peas on it at the moment to try & numb the itch, but I know it's just a temporary relief. Did you have this problem and if so, how long did it last & what did you do?

      Thanks Erin,

      Betty

    • erin1956
      erin1956 betty07083

      Posted

      Betty:

      Yes I've had some leakage from a very small area at the bottom of the wound. My OP did say icing liberally is important. Itching is a sign things are healing. But I would be concerned with the redness. Tomorrow I go for the 2 week appt. with my OP. He said if it is still leaking I may to go into the OR again to properly cleanse the wound so it doesn't become infected. That's the greatest threat to an otherwise very successful operation. I did go in on Monday because of the leaking that developed over the weekend. He has put me on antibiotics to head off potential infection issues. If I were you I would call your OP and let them know about the redness around the incision and left them advise you on a course of action. I would be concerned about that. My incision really looks like it is healing well with no redness.

      Let me know what you find out.

      Take care

    • erin1956
      erin1956 betty07083

      Posted

      Betty

      One more thing. I am using a device called the Iceman which looks like a mini cooler with a special attachment that delivers and circulates ice water to a special pad I place on the incision area. It is convenient and works well. The OP also put a special wrap on that applies pressure to the wound to help stop the leaking.

      Thanks,

    • betty07083
      betty07083 erin1956

      Posted

      Thank you Erin,

      I sent an email to my doctor this evening so anxious to hear what he says.

      What would the redness indicate? 

      Good luck Erin and hope the antibiotics clear things up. Seems you nipped it in the bud so should be fine.

      Betty

    • erin1956
      erin1956 betty07083

      Posted

      Betty:

      The redness is a sign that the body's natural defenses may be trying to fight off foreign invaders. Perhaps bacteria in the incision. Your doctor will advise you a course of action and you will be fine. As you said, earlier the better to nip it in the bud.

      Take care,

  • renee01952
    renee01952 jools2512

    Posted

    hi Jools, 

    You go, girl !!!! Amazing feeling, isn't it ... keep it going ... one step at a time, of course and keep in touch ..

    big warm hug

    renee

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