Total Hip Replacement In A Months Time

Hello. I can try and answer your questions as I had both my hips replaced in 2008, although I did have general anaesthetic for both ops so I can't really respond to question 1.

In the first couple of weeks you will probably feel a bit fragile and tired generally, but once you get the hang of the washing/dressing technique and the restrictions on movement and get into a good daily routine, you won't feel too bad. There may be a certain amount of pain, which is to be expected, but mine was quite manageable with the pain relief supplied by the NHS (paracetomol, tramadol). The most important thing that I would really stress is that you ALWAYS do the physio exercises they recommend, right from the first day. In fact I did them a bit more often than recommended if I felt up to it. I believe this is the key to full recovery and usage of the new hip in the long term. As the surgery area heals it has to have a certain amount of movement otherwise I'm convinced it will always be stiff and possibly painful. You are very young for this op (I was 52 when I had mine) so I think you owe it to your future active life to make sure you do the physio 100% right. Make sure you understand exactly how to do each exercise.

It's just over 3 years from my 2nd operation and I can do far more things now than I could for several years before. I had always tried to keep fairly fit, even with the limitations of the hip problem - I did Pilates about 4 or 5 times a week - but now I also play badminton, go to the gym, walk a lot, jog a little and generally have a busy active life.

Best of luck with your surgery - ask questions of the staff if you're not sure of anything. The physiotherapists are generally great and will explain what you need to do.

Hope this helps!

I would echo everything marymary says and certainly her advice to make sure you do the physio exercises you will be given post op.

I am 56 years old and had a THR on my left side on 16th July. Like you I was a little nervous about what to expect but looking back now, it really wasn't that bad.

Your body will soon let you know if you are pushing it too far too soon. take you time because if you go at things like a bull at a gate you will likely end up with a dislocation which I am told is extremely painful !

I think the worst part afterwards for me was managing in the bathroom and toilet. Without going into too much detail, sitting on the toilet was not easy to start with. You will need to get hold of a raised seat because modern loos are certainly too low to deal with in the first few weeks !

Good luck !

I know I am a bit late on this for you but by now you should be more or less back on your feet. I had a THR on my right hip in September this year. Now, 12 weeks later, I am more or less back to normal. I do still get the odd ache and pain but nothing significant. I would fully support the previous comments. It is essential to do your exercises as often as you feel capable of doing them. Trust what your physio has told you and try to get repeats of each exercise up to about 50 if you can. You will benefit from it. One point to remember is about driving. You may well feel capable of driving quite quickly BUT until your consultant/ surgeon gives you the all clear, you are generally NOT insured to drive!! Only the consultant can do this, not your GP, physio or anyone else. Check with your insurance company!!

I think you should either try for the hip replacement surgery or other process. A chirpractor may be able to help you.

Emis Moderator comment: a link has been removed from this post as we do not allow links in the forums to private clinics.