hip replacement
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Am looking for some help please. Had a hip replacement for dysplastic hip 7 years ago when I was 49. All has been great since.
However, in the past few weeks, I have noticed some discomfort across the top of my thigh, only slightly, and discomfort down front of thigh. Yesterday I have had a higher level of discomfort across the side of my thigh at the top...it was a side thigh incision...I feel it when I walk but it is worse when I lie on my side with the replaced hip as the one on top. Eventually the discomfort forces me to move my leg. Any ideas please as to what this might be. Many thanks
1 like, 1 reply
barbara66703 pollypurple
Edited
pollypurple I am sorry your experiencing discomfort. THR is so tricky with the many different issues it presents in discomfort and pain over the years it's hard to know what it is.
Been thru 3 hip joint replacement surgeries and its always something. I could take a stab at it and guess but ya never know exactly what is the cause. Usually this stage could be soft tissue like a strain or muscle, or back pain can mimic hip pain-like sciatica . Some type of exercises or physical therapy can help the area, if soft tissue is involved.
If rest is not helping or pain continues to worsen then a x-ray or soft tissue MRI may or may not find the issue. Also blood test can also check for metals . It's a good idea checking for fraying tiny particles in blood stream after awhile as a precaution.
At least the tests can eliminate what it could be, if the cause does not show up. Which in my experience not all soft tissue issues show up. Sometimes it calms down on its own with rest.
Sometimes over active days or just walking on uneven ground can set mine off. I've been living the hippy life over 30 years and its always something but remembering to take care of these hip replacements is important as we cannot bend certain ways, flexibility is not the same or move to certain positions , lifting, twisting or run or walk too fast.
If its not getting better and continues to worsen then it would be a good idea to see a physician. in most cases its recommended to x-ray every year just to check wear and tear on the new joint. Metals and poly cups do tend to fray after a few years and can show some wear on x-ray and maybe help predict a time for renewal of the cup or other parts.
It's only been 7 years in your case since joint surgery , I doubt very much that wear is the case. I have one hip over 30 years old and still tickin and x-ray showing slight cup renewal needed in the future.
That's generally all I can think of for what could cause discomfort or pain from your description.
Sending healing vibes your way.