Walking again

I am 3 weeks and still walking like that and having pain do you have any pain with that now it's affecting my back and my other hip because I tend to put more pressure on it I think I have a pinched nerve in the hip which was surgery are you doing any type of physical therapy maybe it will get better some people it just takes time when I had my left hip done 5 years ago I had no problem and went back to work in a week the right hip it's been 3 months now and they're not sure what's going on I've had it done twice in 5 months

You are doing fine.  I had both hips done at the same time.  One healed quickly (2 weeks) the other is still not quite there.  Its been four months.  It has gotten much, much better with less and less of a limp.

I would really encourage you to just keep up with the exercises and your walking.  I would not reccommend walking without crutches or sticks while you have a limp.  It will just cause other issues with your back or legs.

My surgeon reccommended pilattes which I have truely embraced.  It focuses on isolating and working individual muscles, using them properly and breathing properly.  It's really been helpful. Unfortunately not covered by insurance!

Have patience!!!  It will keep improving.

Hi there

I'm 6 weeks post surgery - only one week behind. I am down to one stick - I hate that too. Walking without a stick is ridiculous - I would describe my walking as like an fat penguin - waddle waddle.

After doing research I found out it is because the gluteus medius and minimus muscles are very weak after sirgery and this is the cause of the waddle - so it needs strengthening up. One exercise which I started today is lying on my good side and ad ducting the bad leg - oh my it's hard work and painful - it's like after surgery and you first try and straight leg raise. This exercise isolates the glute muscles as if you abduct your leg standing - other muscles take over - hence why I can do it easy. So I'm doing this terrible exercise daily in the hope it will strengthen the muscle up to stop the waddle

Worth a try

Good luck

Gill x

Hi Barbara

It wasn't until week 12 that managed to walk unaided and without a limp . I didn't have any particular problem , it just took its time . I know that doesn't really help but some of us just take a little longer . I am 5 months post op now and walking better than ever , limp free ( I also waddled like a duck to start ). I know how you feel because I got very frustrated with my progress but you will feel better .

Take care and keep going ,we are all on our own roads to recovery , some are just a little slower than others .☺

Thank you that gives me some hope. I thought it was something I am not doing so feel better that I am not the only one struggling. I will continue my aductor exercises and hope that will help.

Thanks again

Hi Barbara, 

Sticks are no good they put undue pressure on your wrists and crutches spread the weight and support elbows, having been on crutches for 30 years l know

Are any of you driving even though you can't walk properly I am supposed to be able to drive from this weekend 8 weeks but feel very nervous about it

I am really confused about my there is such resistance to walkers vs crutches or sticks (whatever they are). The walker helps keep you balanced and allows you to lengthen your stride which helps you walk more smoothly.

Is there a rationale for not using them that I do not understand?

Barbara - have faith you WILL get there. My PT emphasized: walking tall, heel-toe and long strides. Although many people scoffed at clenching your buttocks too - this helps strengthen them and counter the weakness in the glutes. With a couple of waves of hugs to pull out when things are tough.

L