Hip Replacement Needed but no pain only stiffness - doc suggests not replacing yet

Posted , 13 users are following.

Hi all

Newbie here. My sis gave me link to this forum - she's had both hips replaced now and is flying 😃

I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in both hips and both feet. My right hip is the worse. But because I don't suffer much pain, the consultant says he will just monitor me. My job is sit down and I'm currently studying so anything from 10 to 14 hours in front of a computer a day - sitting on my posterior!

The only problem I have is incredible stiffness which has got worse over the last year. It takes me a few minutes of hobbling to get straight. I'm 52. Its becoming embarrassing now at work!! Once I get straightened I'm ok - can walk around normally. I would walk at lunch time most days just to keep some level of fitness.

Just wondering if any of you had no pain but this incredible stiffness and if you have any solutions. I'm also beginning to get very tired but that could be work and study.

Thanks for any info.

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  • Posted

    Hi Ann, greetings from a fellow Irish member... I had 2nd hip done 3 months ago; 1st one at 55 & 2nd at 58. Like you, I have private health insurance which meant I was able to see consultant & have surgery quickly. Surgery has been lifechanging - for the better. Nonetheless, it is significant surgery and your consultant for some reason considers it appropriate to wait. If/when your hip interferes with normal day to day activities (physically and/or mentally), I suggest you update him and ask to go ahead.

    For now, I think you are right to keep moving as much as you can. While I don't know if it is practical for you, of all the exercises I have tried, I have found swimming most enjoyable and beneficial. Particularly, in dealing with stiffness post-op. I'm now swimming in the sea most days and thrilled to be back on my bike!

    • Posted

      Joan

      My sis also said that swimming for was very beneficial for her after surgery too. Its something I haven't had time for but hopefully will get back to soon. Although I'm not as brave as you - it will be a swimming pool. I wouldn't be confident enough for sea swimming and I do live on the coast !

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