Total hip replacement with added complication of fractured femur

Hi Sam,

this happened to me. Don't worry too much about the fracture, it will heal. Did the surgeon wire it up? Mine did. I was 50% weight bearing or less for 8 weeks but I did a lot of hydrotherapy but wasn't allowed into a normal pool until 8 weeks.

i am 6 months post op now and the fracture really hasn't been an issue since 8 weeks. Yes it does slow down recovery but only by a few weeks.

i do really feel for you with school holidays and your surgery being so recent. I also have 2 kids and the first few weeks were not easy.

I wrote some posts about my fracture situation on this site somewhere which might be of help but try to rest as much as you can so you heal and take any help you can get. And hydrotherapy is great if you can get it.

all the best xx

I really hope you can find family and friends to help you and your son.

Hi Sam,

Sorry for your bad luck with the fracture. Several other forum members have had this experience - I hope they will chime in like Basia to reassure you. Even more members went into the operation with a fracture as welL, but recoveries seem to have gone well.

It really sucks to get hit with surprises like this when the operation itself is a huge journey and already stressful. You are lucky that your son is helping so much - good for you and good for him to be able to help and I think the experience will serve you both well even if you would prefer not to lean on him this much. But I bet you will both appreciate each other more for it.

All you can really do is go with the flow with this operation. The first two weeks are tough - no worries was about it and the rest of the recovery takes lots of patience. Although I didn't have a fracture during surgery, my other hip was almost as bad as the one operated, so understand a little of what you are feeling. Luckily (now 5 months post thr) I am scheduled to get my second one done in Septemberi.

My advice from this 'experience' is to be patient and make it as easy as possible for others to help you (make lists to help them - too often Mom work is invisible - so be specific about what needs doing and what you need (few teenagers that I know are very good at mindreading)! It is a win-win: helps you be kind to your body which has undergone a very serious operation and allows those who love you to show it.

(And rest, elevate your leg frequently and do your exercises).

Big hugs,

L

Hi Sam -- that is way too bad about the fracture.  I'm curious as to whether you had the anterior or posterior approach.  I had posterior (that's the only option where I am) and when I read about the anterior, it said that possibility of a femur fracture was higher with it because the surgeon can't get as good a look at it.  So I'm just curious.

Good luck with the recovery.  It looks like you've had some good advice here.  Lots of rest.  Try to get more help if you can.  Patience.  

My sister had both hips done a few years ago.  She was single and her 12-year old grandson stayed with her and was quite a big help -- so it can be done!  

Big hugs to you,  Leslie

Nothing realy to add except all the good wishes and healing Fairy Dust. ????

Others have had the same experience. The road to recovery may be longer. I feel your frustration. But I am sure you will get there. Your "personal trainer " sounds amazing!  My teenagers have helped me too. They can realy "pull it out of the bag" when they need to. Although they do need step by step instruction. Maybe you could plan a little holiday with him or offer big treats at Xmas!

Kris. X

In fact I may never pick up the vacuum cleaner again!!!  Wishful thinking!

warm welcome to this wonderful hippies forum where we share personal experiences and stories --

unfortunately this happens and fortunately there are members here who had the same challenge - 

The frame will help you - allow the fracture to heal - 

are you on pain medication ? 

Be gentle and kind to yourself and take it one day, one step at a time - annoying, but this is what it is right now --

big hug for you and your son

renee

Hi Sam.  I was told after my lthr that I had a fracture also and that it was repaired with titanium wire. This added time to my recovery and I was 50 percent weight bearing and on a walker for 10 weeks. It was very difficult. I had to rely on others for a great many things. The feeling of isolation; having to stay at home and unable to drive was debilitating! I am now 13 weeks post surgery and using a cane, doing physical therapy and almost able to walk without a limp. My 3 month precautions have been lifted, however, there are still some restrictions on abductions and flexion. I return to my surgeon on August 18th and I am hoping those restrictions will be lifted by then; at 15 weeks post op. My best suggestion to you is to stay connected to people on the forum and ask family and friends for company and help. It is a long process but you will heal in time. Don't let the isolation get to you. Ask for help. I know what this feels like and you will get to the other side of it. Reach out anytime if you need to talk or to vent,etc. we are all here for you. Hang in there! Cindy