Questions regarding my upcoming surgery

Posted , 12 users are following.

Ok, just need more advice. Been over thinking my upcoming THR on May 7. I had met with 2 different surgeons so I could pick the one I felt most comfortable with. Now I'm having doubts about whether I picked the right one because I was told by my chiropractor that my leg on bad hip side was slightly shorter than my leg on good side. I mentioned this to surgeon and he didn't address it. Don't they normally take measurements or something to make sure of everything? I know if there is leg length differ nce it can be an issue after you are healed up. Should I ask before my surgery if this needs to be looked into so it can be corrected during surgery if needed?

1 like, 11 replies

11 Replies

  • Posted

    I think the measurements are done on the X-rays, but you must raise concerns like this before going in for the surgery.

    Best wishes

    Graham

  • Posted

    My sugeon went off x-rays and MRI aling with a physical exam. There were no actual measurements like with measuring tape.  But tell your surgeon your concerns.  All of your concerns.   I think we all do that. I had a laundry list of concerns and my surgeon patiently addressed them all. This is a big deal and “over-thinking” is prudent.
  • Posted

    I also have one leg longer than the other. It has caused me lots of back pain over the years. After my surgery the legs were a little different but when I went for my post-op exam the doctor measured them and said they were both aligned. So for the first time in my life my legs are the same length I'm having problems with my knees only because my whole body has to adjust to this and it's getting better.

  • Posted

    Dear Kathy

    I'm rather reticent about saying this so close to the date of your surgery but your choice of surgeon really should not be made on whether you like or do not like them.

    It is their competence, experience and care during the surgery that counts. Bedside manner really is not relevant apart from putting you in a better frame of mind. Sorry to be so brutal and hope it helps in some way.

    All the very best, Richard

    • Posted

      Hi there!! I am trying not to go on bedside manners and whether we clicked or not, even though for us women, we tend to focus a lot on that. I researched reviews and decision was based on that. I would just like an actual person to tell me their experience rather than trusting internet reviews I guess. Maybe cold feet are setting in, I'm second guessing many things right now and just want some assurance!

    • Posted

      Quite understandable. I would be happy to chat on the phone as this is far more useful than trying to do it with messaging. If you are interested just message me with a contact number if in the UK and the best day and time to give you a ring. Cheers Richard
  • Posted

    I just looked at you question again and it sounds like you already brought it up to your surgeon.  I'm assuming you have had a physcial exam with him and he has taken x-rays?  Is he a well respected surgeon in your area?  It's ok to tell him you're concerned because your chiropractor said your leg is longer, but to be honest, surgeons have significantly more training than chiropractors and definitely understand what goes into surgery better than a non-surgeon.  Also, how did your chiropractor measure? Measuring tapes are not the most accurate source.  I would trust the surgeon to go by x-rays more than something as inaccurate as a measuring tape.

  • Posted

    Hi.  

    I was told that it was my pelvis that was out of line, not leg length and my chiropractor has helped with adjustments since surgery and it’s making a world of difference.  Was very scared to get adjusted but I trusted him and I have now had 4 adjustments

    I am 4 weeks post op. 

    My pelvis went out of line with many months of limping and over compensating for bad hip. 

    I would talk to my surgeon and find out why he isn’t concerned after your first conversation. 

    Mine was all measured through X-rays the week before surgery, and 4 very large X-rays with all measurements was in OR that surgeon used to make sure it was right. 

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