Posted , 6 users are following.
It is 3 weeks ago today since I had a total hip replacement. I'm progressing well and, according to my physiotherapist, have a good range of motion.
I am well aware that the operative leg is now longer - approx 1/2" - which causes me to limp when not using a walker. Will this go back to normal during the healing process?
2 likes, 15 replies
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AnnieK CBC
Posted
Hello, CBC! Sometimes it takes awhile for the legs to feel the same length after THR, due to various reasons. Often that feeling does go away, or hips that have been tipped a bit settle down and leg length difference eases. Have you talked with your surgeon about this length difference? If not, I would suggest that you do. He can tell you if he thinks it is temporary or, if not, then exactly what the situation is. The fact that you are limping when you don't use the walker could be for a number of different reasons, especially at only 3 weeks post-op, including LLD. So, again, I'd check with the surgeon.
CBC AnnieK
Posted
Thank you so much for your comments and suggestion. I'm probably being an impatient patient.
linda38528 AnnieK
Posted
And the connective tissues within the operated leg took a while to settle down and stretch out with exercise. I use an otc lift to help even out my gait for the moment.
I look forward to hearing what you find out from your surgeon or PT.
God luck and do not let this discourage you .. you will prevail.
L
renee01952 CBC
Posted
learning how to walk correctly is such a big challenge after THR - if you had posterior approach, tendons and muscles were severed and everything around needs time to heal - it is all very fragile right now and unable to support your body yet - one step at a time and one day at a time and patience, darling big warm hugrenee
renee01952
Posted
Sounds lik you are doing really well !!! congratulations
CBC renee01952
Posted
YoMike CBC
Posted
I'm 12 days post surgery and my right leg that has the new hip seems about an inch longer now. I'm not using the walker, but have a prominent limp. I go to my surgeon next week to remove the staples. I told him before leaving the hospital if the difference, he says he measured three times during surgery and the legs are exactly the same length. Also he took additional X-rays at the hospital to confirm.
But I still am living with the difference. Today I stripped down and watched myself walk in a full length mirror and it's all of of whack. I'm hoping this gets better.
CBC YoMike
Posted
Did you see post from Renee01952?
My operative leg is approx 1 cm longer - enough to make me feel,out of kilter - but not going to panic just yet. It's important to use the walker more; it helps with balance. I have the 2-wheel one for indoors and the 4-wheel version with brakes for walking outdoors. When using them, I don't feel as if I'm limping.
Friend of mine had a THR last August and experienced the same thing. Now says she hardly notices it.
AnnieK CBC
Posted
I've had a bad limp (not due to LLD, but a gluteal tendon tear) ever since my THR last summer. Having surgery to correct in August. I have been using the 4 wheeled walker inside for the past year, and it allows me to walk quickly, smoothly and correctly, with no limp. I love it. Also, I always have things I need to move from room to room, and I use the seat to carry them with. Outside I use one crutch, since I am never in a hurry out there, as there are too many irregularities in the ground surface no matter where you are walking, and I need to slow down and be aware.
YoMike CBC
Posted
Yeah I did, I'm sure hoping that's the case. But a full inch is quite a differential, so time will tell. I was surprised looking at myself walk in the mirror how much of a change I do walk. But if I straighten out my operated leg the other leg dangles off the ground.
Fernlady CBC
Posted
Hi CBC, I'm 4.5 weeks post-op. My leg pre-op was 1cm shorter & is now the same length. The first few weeks afterwards, every time I tried to walk without any aids, I felt like I was walking up & down a hill on one side if that makes sense! When I spoke to my Physio she said that my pelvis & spine had been incorrectly aligned for so long due to my OA & pain, it would take time to correct itself. Now, I have ditched my crutches & use trekking poles if I am walking outside (in the house & garden I don't use anything). My walking is nearly perfect with the poles but I still limp slightly without them. The biggest piece of advice the Physio gave me was we have to learn to walk again & the best way to do this is to roll your heel to toe & to do it really slowly. If you really concentrate on this & watch yourself in the mirror you will find you don't limp! Speed will come with time. It is also important to strengthen quads & flutes. Best wishes x
Fernlady
Posted
CBC Fernlady
Posted
Hello Fernlady,
I've owned walking poles for several years - forgot all about using them post surgery - probably much better than using a cane. Will give them a try.
Thank you for this and other suggestions.
renee01952 Fernlady
Posted
Walking poles were offered to me pre-op THR - Where i live, only "old" people were walking with them so I politely said "no" ...(again, pre-op and also pre-forum)
I am so sorry now and will get me a pair ... My walking is still not all that great -
linda38528 Fernlady
Posted