Guest guest Posted December 17, 2008 Report Share Posted December 17, 2008 I would like to second this statement. And also to add that sometimes others see what is happening with us more clearly than we do. Getting the perspective of trusted people can help in the decision. I will be having knee replacement in early February. I¹ve put it off a little too long. What happened with me is that I would daily make small accommodations to the restrictions being created by arthritis. It was only when I engaged in an activity that I hadn¹t done for a while that I would see the cumulative impact ‹ It was kind of shocking to find that I was unable to do things, or to do them clumsily or with difficulty, things that I had previously done with ease. One day a friend suggested that I seriously consider scheduling the surgery. I said that maybe she could see the deterioration more clearly than I could and asked what she saw. Her answer was a big push. She said that what she saw was that I was in constant pain. I had become so accustomed to experiencing pain that I didn¹t really take it seriously anymore, almost numbed myself to it When I paid attention I could see that my normally high energy level was greatly reduced, my disposition was turning sour, and I just plain hurt all the time. Everything had become challenging and difficult, whereas my normal outlook is very different. Not just my body but my character seemed to be changing. This statement by my friend was such a great help. It moved me to action not only to schedule the surgery but to improved pain management. So, though I haven¹t had the surgery yet, a lot has changed just by my being more aware of and addressing the pain. That alone has really improved my life. Also having that settled really took a big stressor off me. I feel as if a load has lifted from my shoulders (and knees!). So one thing you might want to do if you¹re not sure you¹re ready is to ask friends and family what they are seeing. Sometimes we need that loving mirror. And this is not a bad thing. It means that we have a lot of strength, resilience, and flexibility to adjust to difficulties in life. It¹s just that sometimes we don¹t have to do that anymore. Best wishes with your decision. Peace, Jackie Slo you might ask your family and friends waht On 12/17/08 8:14 AM, " jujulabee@... " <jujulabee@...> wrote: > I think the reason why it is so " personal " is that everyone is willing > to put up with different degrees of restrictions. Almost everyone who > has the surgery regrets waiting too long -- the onset of pain is > gradual and one tends to forget how circumscribed one's life is getting. > > In your situation, I would schedule surgery because being 38 and > walking with a cane and not being able to partake of normal activities > of life when there is an alternative that would give me back my life > -- but it's a personal decision. > > The wonder of getting of bed the day after surgery and having NO PAIN > in the hip -- minor surgical discomfort but one knows that gets > fainter and fainter each day as one heals -- and pain meds are > wonderful LOL. > > You should investigate hip resurfacing at your age -- or look for a > doctor who does a true anterior approach -- since no muscles are good, > there are no restrictions after surgery and significantly faster > recovery. > > Why are you delaying -- perhaps by vocalizing it, you can reach a > decision more easily. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 17, 2008 Report Share Posted December 17, 2008 If your way of way of life is being compromised too much, and only you can answer that then I would go for it however, have you considered hip resurfacing as an option. This procedure seems better for the younger person as it does not amputate the neck of the femur thereby leaving this option (if required) later on in life. This procedure also has less restriction post op i.e. bending wise, sleeping on your stomach, etc, you can even run again! Good Luck, Bill. > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my hip > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone is, > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a case > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but when > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to 10- > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to wait > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small children > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 17, 2008 Report Share Posted December 17, 2008 Thanks for your response Bill, Yes my way of life is being comprimised to a degree, but I am cautious not to go down the replacement road too soon considering my age. And Im not really sure what to expect with a replacement. What will my hip be like after afterwards? Will I still have limited movement? Will I be completely pain free? Will I be able to jog? Put my sock on? Be completely 'normal' hip-wise? I guess I will ask my OS when the time comes. Yes I always assumed I would have a resurfacing, but my OS does not recommend it. Many surgeons here in Australia have fallen out of favour with resurfacing and the numbers performed have been decreasing over the last couple of years. My OS did them for many years and is very experienced and well respected but he has recently stopped doing them. There is a national joint replacement register here and according to annual reports the outcomes are not as promising as previously thought, especially for dysplastic hips (a 12% chance of revision in 5yrs, compared to THR 3%), for women, and for patients with small femoral heads, all of which I have/am. I guess that puts me in a higher risk category for early revision, so the THR is probably the way I will go. Thanks, > > > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in > my hip > > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone > is, > > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a > case > > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use > a > > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that > I > > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but > when > > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up > to 10- > > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to > wait > > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small > children > > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2008 Report Share Posted December 18, 2008 Thank you for your supportive message. I will do exactly what you have suggested. Although I am sure I know what my mothers response will be. She doesnt have to say anything, I can tell by the pained look on her face that it breaks her heart to me struggling with my hips, not to mention trying to look after 3 children under 4 in that condition. And my husband will probaby say Im grumpy a lot of the time from the pain and frustration, which my poor kids probably most. I know its effecting them, when they play make believe 'mothers and fathers', the one who is mummy limps around with her sore leg and kisses the babies goodbye as she goes to physio. Its sad to think they may never know the 'able' mum they once had. My God, I could cry now just thinking about it. Thank you so much Jackie, you have put a completely new perspective on things. I wish you well with your knee replacement. > > > I think the reason why it is so " personal " is that everyone is willing > > to put up with different degrees of restrictions. Almost everyone who > > has the surgery regrets waiting too long -- the onset of pain is > > gradual and one tends to forget how circumscribed one's life is getting. > > > > In your situation, I would schedule surgery because being 38 and > > walking with a cane and not being able to partake of normal activities > > of life when there is an alternative that would give me back my life > > -- but it's a personal decision. > > > > The wonder of getting of bed the day after surgery and having NO PAIN > > in the hip -- minor surgical discomfort but one knows that gets > > fainter and fainter each day as one heals -- and pain meds are > > wonderful LOL. > > > > You should investigate hip resurfacing at your age -- or look for a > > doctor who does a true anterior approach -- since no muscles are good, > > there are no restrictions after surgery and significantly faster > > recovery. > > > > Why are you delaying -- perhaps by vocalizing it, you can reach a > > decision more easily. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2008 Report Share Posted December 18, 2008 : I had my right hip replaced at 42 and my left replaced at 44 (Sept. 10 this year). Only you can decide when to do the surgery, but from my experience I waited at least a year too long on the first hip. What finally pushed me over the edge was (1) not being able to get a good night's sleep, and (2) not being able to run around and play ball with my girlfriend's little boy without jolting pain. I did a great deal of research beforehand. In the past, surgeons generally recommended pushing off hip replacement for people our age as far as possible due to the liklihood of needing a revision down the road. The " old " style implants have a plastic cup which wears over time. The newer, lager profile metal-on-metal and ceramic-on- ceramic implants avoid the plastic cup, are hard to dislocate, and in theory (and supported by lab testing) will last a lifetime. Of course, there is no empiracle evidence because the implants have not been in people long enough. If you are in otherwise good health, at your age you should recover quickly from the surgery, live pain free, have great hip mobility, and have no post op restrictions. I had the posterior approach on both hips and left the hospital on crutches the second day after surgery (two nights in the hospital). I'm an avid cyclist. After my last hip replacement, I took a 10 mile bike ride exactly four weeks post op. I played soccer and football in the backyard with my girlfriend's boy this past weekend. Only you can judge, but don't put it off out of fear of surgery. It's not that bad. Good luck, -Ed > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my hip > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone is, > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a case > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but when > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to 10- > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to wait > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small children > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2008 Report Share Posted December 18, 2008 I wanted to follow up on several points. First, Ed is entirely correct in terms of the newer technology -- the newest " parts " are intended for younger people as they have a theoretically much longer life than the older technology -- Fifteen, twenty years or or more -- who really knows? And when time time comes (if ever) that the part wears out and needs replacement, my assumption is that medical advances will have been made -- just compare the techniques used even 10 years ago. And during that period of time one has one's life back --- as I had posted originally (and others agreed with), one often doesn't realize how compromised one's life has become prior to surgery until AFTERWARDS when one realizes the gradual accommodations one made because of the increasing pain and lack of mobility. You are a young woman with children and you are willing to hobble around with a cane when you are likely enough to have a " disease " that can be completely cured -- one that will give you a " normal " life. At 38 years old (heck at 56 years when I had my surgery), I wouldn't have chosen that. Most of us hold out out of fear of the unknown -- I think it significant that most people have their second hip done (if necessary) much sooner than the first -- because knowing exactly what surgery/ recovery is like -- and weighing it against the life of pain and being in effect somewhat of an invalid -- well that is a NO BRAINER (at least in my opinion). If your OS is telling you to wait, I would seek a second opinion from another OS because the advice to wait is considered old fashioned at this point and was based on the older devices having a short life -- as well as their not being " large headed " . You should get a " large head " -- it reduces the risk of dislocation. With the operation for almost all people, one will soon have a life free of pain from the hip -- the ability to put on shoes and socks, to engage in normal activities -- to feel better psychologically -- because constant pain (even if one doesn't realize it) makes one depressed. And the longer one waits, the worse one's muscles become as one's body movements distort because of the pain -- On Dec 18, 2008, at 6:46 AM, emiller_22207 wrote: > : > > I had my right hip replaced at 42 and my left replaced at 44 (Sept. > 10 this year). Only you can decide when to do the surgery, but from > my experience I waited at least a year too long on the first hip. > What finally pushed me over the edge was (1) not being able to get a > good night's sleep, and (2) not being able to run around and play > ball with my girlfriend's little boy without jolting pain. > > I did a great deal of research beforehand. In the past, surgeons > generally recommended pushing off hip replacement for people our age > as far as possible due to the liklihood of needing a revision down > the road. The " old " style implants have a plastic cup which wears > over time. The newer, lager profile metal-on-metal and ceramic-on- > ceramic implants avoid the plastic cup, are hard to dislocate, and in > theory (and supported by lab testing) will last a lifetime. Of > course, there is no empiracle evidence because the implants have not > been in people long enough. > > If you are in otherwise good health, at your age you should recover > quickly from the surgery, live pain free, have great hip mobility, > and have no post op restrictions. I had the posterior approach on > both hips and left the hospital on crutches the second day after > surgery (two nights in the hospital). I'm an avid cyclist. After my > last hip replacement, I took a 10 mile bike ride exactly four weeks > post op. I played soccer and football in the backyard with my > girlfriend's boy this past weekend. > > Only you can judge, but don't put it off out of fear of surgery. > It's not that bad. > > Good luck, > -Ed > > > > > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my > hip > > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone > is, > > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a > case > > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but > when > > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to > 10- > > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to > wait > > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small > children > > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2008 Report Share Posted December 18, 2008 <<She said that what she saw was that I was in constant pain. I had become so accustomed to experiencing pain that I didn¹t really take it seriously anymore, almost numbed myself to it When I paid attention I could see that my normally high energy level was greatly reduced, my disposition was turning sour, and I just plain hurt all the time. Everything had become challenging and difficult, whereas my normal outlook is very different. Not just my body but my character seemed to be changing.>> Jackie, thank you for stating things so clearly. Like you, I'll be having surgery in Feb although mine will be for my hip, not my knee. Both hips are bone on bone but I have to wait for medicare to kick in before I could afford to do anything. It is hard to look objectively at the modifications we've had to make in our lives. Yesterday I was emailing a friend and remembering a trip we'd taken together about a year ago. Although I hobbled, I made it around the small coastal town's historic town. Now I know I wouldn't last a block. I went from a couple of aspirin at bedtime and the occasional anti inflamatory during the day to vicodin every night and sometimes twice. Yesterday, in order to take my mother to the doctor, I had to pop another vicodin--and then get behind the wheel. Not good or smart. I'm a writer and have made a living writing fiction for many years with more than 50 books under my belt. This lastest has been the hardest I've ever worked on because I've been unable to get into my characters' hearts and minds. I can't dismiss my body and its impact on my own mind and heart. I suppose I'll get nervous when Feb. 9 approaches but right now, I just want to get to that date. Vella www.VonnaHarper.com A touch, and more, of erotica Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2008 Report Share Posted December 18, 2008 jujulabee wrote: And during that period of time one has one's life back --- as I had posted originally (and others agreed with), one often doesn't realize how compromised one's life has become prior to surgery until AFTERWARDS when one realizes the gradual accommodations one made because of the increasing pain and lack of mobility. You are a young woman with children and you are willing to hobble around with a cane when you are likely enough to have a " disease " that can be completely cured -- one that will give you a " normal " life. At 38 years old (heck at 56 years when I had my surgery), I wouldn't have chosen that. ==================== Bingo with a big fat capital B! I was 35 when my hip started acting funny and my lower back started to hurt. Nothing to major, but enough to notice. As time went on, it got worse. When I was 40, I went to my GP for Xrays and she said I had minor OA and spinal spurs, but 'nothing major'. Funny, the pain and lack of mobility didn't seem minor to me. Go another year, it gets worse. Everyday activities pretty much cease. I gained alot of weight b/c of my inability to do activity. Even carrying laundry from my bedroom to the washer killed my back. Getting up from a seated position felt like I was 80 YO. I got little to no sleep b/c it was impossible to get comfortable. I was popping more ibuprofin all the time. I went to my GP who referred me to apparently the best rhumatologist in the city who quickly dismissed my issues, told me to lose weight (I gained weight b/c it was too painful to do anything) and prescribed naproxen. He further stated an orthopod wouldn't look at me until I was AT LEAST 50. In the meantime, my back would be thrashed because of the brunt it took from my hip that had ZERO rotation and mobility. I moved to another city for my dh's job. AFter getting settled, I searched out an orthopod and he wanted to try cortisone shots and fluid injections in teh joint first. I didn't mind trying them if they worked and avoided hip replacement surgery. the cortisone shot worked for a couple weeks, but boy , did I feel like a million bucks. Next was the joint injection, that lasted for 6 months, but did nothing for my back pain.. in fact, it got worse. I finally went to the OS and told him I was done. I wanted the surgery. I had it done on Oct. 16 and as soon as I woke up, I was PAIN FREE, well, except for surgical pain. But I immediately felt a difference. I have been completely pain free since. My back is still very weak from prior to the surgery, but physio is working on that. My physiotherapist tells me I'm teh greatest compensator on the face of the planet. I found many ways to subsitute for the pain and use my body in strange ways to get around, avoid the pain and to avoid using my bad hip. Now I have to learn to walk properly and not use the old habits I had for 8 years. OP - have the surgery. You will not regret it. You will wonder why you didn't do it before. I used to be so depressed from the pain, lack of mobility and reduced quality of life. I'm so much happier because I have hope. Honestly, you do not have to wait until you are crawling to have this done. you deserve to have a decent quality of life. My surgeon also advised against resurfacing. HE said that it was done too much, too soon and now studies are showing it's not all that it was cracked up to be. Just not enough studies and period of history to recco it. Please do not allow yourself to remain in pain. I got used to being in pain all the time, that I even denied myself appropriate meds in the hospital and at home post op thinking i should have some level of pain. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 19, 2008 Report Share Posted December 19, 2008 Thankyou everyone for your responses, much appreciated. I am certainly looking at things from another angle now. Like i said, its a matter of doing it too soon versus having a better quality of life. I just need to figure out where I am on the scale first. But Im not scared of having the operation though. Due to my hip dysplasia Ive have had a Periacetabular Osteotomy on each hip (ie cut through the pelvis, realign the socket, pin it back together) which is quite big operation. So Im becoming accustomed to hip surgeries, hospitals and rehab! And to throw another factor into the equation - Im still deciding whether to have another child. I would dearly love one more, but at the moment my hips are making the decision for me - I couldnt handle any more weight. Perhaps if I lost weight first.... (easier said than done when I cant even ride an excercise bike.) And they seem to recommend you finish child bearing before any MoM replacement, and I havent looked into ceramics yet. And which to do first, THR vs baby?...there are many pros and cons for each. Im already 38 so not a lot of time to waste deciding. Soooo much to think about! Thanks again everyone, you have given me much food for thought.. > > And during that period of time one has one's life back --- as I had > posted originally (and others agreed with), one often doesn't realize > how compromised one's life has become prior to surgery until > AFTERWARDS when one realizes the gradual accommodations one made > because of the increasing pain and lack of mobility. You are a young > woman with children and you are willing to hobble around with a cane > when you are likely enough to have a " disease " that can be completely > cured -- one that will give you a " normal " life. At 38 years old (heck > at 56 years when I had my surgery), I wouldn't have chosen that. > ==================== > > Bingo with a big fat capital B! > > I was 35 when my hip started acting funny and my lower back started > to hurt. Nothing to major, but enough to notice. As time went on, > it got worse. > > When I was 40, I went to my GP for Xrays and she said I had minor OA > and spinal spurs, but 'nothing major'. Funny, the pain and lack of > mobility didn't seem minor to me. > > Go another year, it gets worse. Everyday activities pretty much > cease. I gained alot of weight b/c of my inability to do activity. > Even carrying laundry from my bedroom to the washer killed my back. > Getting up from a seated position felt like I was 80 YO. I got > little to no sleep b/c it was impossible to get comfortable. I was > popping more ibuprofin all the time. > > I went to my GP who referred me to apparently the best rhumatologist > in the city who quickly dismissed my issues, told me to lose weight > (I gained weight b/c it was too painful to do anything) and > prescribed naproxen. He further stated an orthopod wouldn't look at > me until I was AT LEAST 50. In the meantime, my back would be > thrashed because of the brunt it took from my hip that had ZERO > rotation and mobility. > > I moved to another city for my dh's job. AFter getting settled, I > searched out an orthopod and he wanted to try cortisone shots and > fluid injections in teh joint first. I didn't mind trying them if > they worked and avoided hip replacement surgery. the cortisone shot > worked for a couple weeks, but boy , did I feel like a million > bucks. Next was the joint injection, that lasted for 6 months, but > did nothing for my back pain.. in fact, it got worse. > > I finally went to the OS and told him I was done. I wanted the > surgery. I had it done on Oct. 16 and as soon as I woke up, I was > PAIN FREE, well, except for surgical pain. But I immediately felt a > difference. > > I have been completely pain free since. My back is still very weak > from prior to the surgery, but physio is working on that. My > physiotherapist tells me I'm teh greatest compensator on the face of > the planet. I found many ways to subsitute for the pain and use my > body in strange ways to get around, avoid the pain and to avoid using > my bad hip. Now I have to learn to walk properly and not use the old > habits I had for 8 years. > > OP - have the surgery. You will not regret it. You will wonder why > you didn't do it before. I used to be so depressed from the pain, > lack of mobility and reduced quality of life. I'm so much happier > because I have hope. Honestly, you do not have to wait until you are > crawling to have this done. you deserve to have a decent quality of > life. > > My surgeon also advised against resurfacing. HE said that it was > done too much, too soon and now studies are showing it's not all that > it was cracked up to be. Just not enough studies and period of > history to recco it. > > Please do not allow yourself to remain in pain. I got used to being > in pain all the time, that I even denied myself appropriate meds in > the hospital and at home post op thinking i should have some level of > pain. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 19, 2008 Report Share Posted December 19, 2008 I had some of the same experience, but not as long. The first ortho sent me down the cortisone and celebrex route because he wanted to delay replacement due to my relatively young age (42). After about 6 months I went to get a second opinion from a very well regarded ortho ( Engh--who pioneered porous-coated, cementless implants). He looked at my x-rays for maybe 15 seconds and said " see right here, you're bone on bone. " Then he asked whether I was sleeping at night and how far I could walk without excessive pain. I answered that I was waking up almost every hour and couldn't walk a block without pain. I asked whether it should be replaced. I'll never forget his answer: " well, it ain't going to get any better without it. " Next, he explained the advances with the big head, metal and ceramic implants and their anticipated longevity. I scheduled surgery before leaving the office. > > And during that period of time one has one's life back --- as I had > posted originally (and others agreed with), one often doesn't realize > how compromised one's life has become prior to surgery until > AFTERWARDS when one realizes the gradual accommodations one made > because of the increasing pain and lack of mobility. You are a young > woman with children and you are willing to hobble around with a cane > when you are likely enough to have a " disease " that can be completely > cured -- one that will give you a " normal " life. At 38 years old (heck > at 56 years when I had my surgery), I wouldn't have chosen that. > ==================== > > Bingo with a big fat capital B! > > I was 35 when my hip started acting funny and my lower back started > to hurt. Nothing to major, but enough to notice. As time went on, > it got worse. > > When I was 40, I went to my GP for Xrays and she said I had minor OA > and spinal spurs, but 'nothing major'. Funny, the pain and lack of > mobility didn't seem minor to me. > > Go another year, it gets worse. Everyday activities pretty much > cease. I gained alot of weight b/c of my inability to do activity. > Even carrying laundry from my bedroom to the washer killed my back. > Getting up from a seated position felt like I was 80 YO. I got > little to no sleep b/c it was impossible to get comfortable. I was > popping more ibuprofin all the time. > > I went to my GP who referred me to apparently the best rhumatologist > in the city who quickly dismissed my issues, told me to lose weight > (I gained weight b/c it was too painful to do anything) and > prescribed naproxen. He further stated an orthopod wouldn't look at > me until I was AT LEAST 50. In the meantime, my back would be > thrashed because of the brunt it took from my hip that had ZERO > rotation and mobility. > > I moved to another city for my dh's job. AFter getting settled, I > searched out an orthopod and he wanted to try cortisone shots and > fluid injections in teh joint first. I didn't mind trying them if > they worked and avoided hip replacement surgery. the cortisone shot > worked for a couple weeks, but boy , did I feel like a million > bucks. Next was the joint injection, that lasted for 6 months, but > did nothing for my back pain.. in fact, it got worse. > > I finally went to the OS and told him I was done. I wanted the > surgery. I had it done on Oct. 16 and as soon as I woke up, I was > PAIN FREE, well, except for surgical pain. But I immediately felt a > difference. > > I have been completely pain free since. My back is still very weak > from prior to the surgery, but physio is working on that. My > physiotherapist tells me I'm teh greatest compensator on the face of > the planet. I found many ways to subsitute for the pain and use my > body in strange ways to get around, avoid the pain and to avoid using > my bad hip. Now I have to learn to walk properly and not use the old > habits I had for 8 years. > > OP - have the surgery. You will not regret it. You will wonder why > you didn't do it before. I used to be so depressed from the pain, > lack of mobility and reduced quality of life. I'm so much happier > because I have hope. Honestly, you do not have to wait until you are > crawling to have this done. you deserve to have a decent quality of > life. > > My surgeon also advised against resurfacing. HE said that it was > done too much, too soon and now studies are showing it's not all that > it was cracked up to be. Just not enough studies and period of > history to recco it. > > Please do not allow yourself to remain in pain. I got used to being > in pain all the time, that I even denied myself appropriate meds in > the hospital and at home post op thinking i should have some level of > pain. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 19, 2008 Report Share Posted December 19, 2008 > > I had some of the same experience, but not as long. The first ortho > sent me down the cortisone and celebrex route because he wanted to > delay replacement due to my relatively young age (42). After about 6 > months I went to get a second opinion from a very well regarded ortho > ( Engh--who pioneered porous-coated, cementless implants). He > looked at my x-rays for maybe 15 seconds and said " see right here, > you're bone on bone. " Then he asked whether I was sleeping at night > and how far I could walk without excessive pain. I answered that I > was waking up almost every hour and couldn't walk a block without > pain. I asked whether it should be replaced. I'll never forget his > answer: " well, it ain't going to get any better without it. " Next, > he explained the advances with the big head, metal and ceramic > implants and their anticipated longevity. I scheduled surgery before > leaving the office. > We're the same age. I had a hard time finding doctors willing to do THR on someone my age, but it seems there is no shortage of people my age and/or younger who need it or have had it done. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2008 Report Share Posted December 20, 2008 It sounds like you need it now, with 3 little ones. Lynn > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my hip > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone is, > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a case > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but when > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to 10- > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to wait > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small children > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2008 Report Share Posted December 20, 2008 Hi I am almost 5 months past my THR. I had the anterior approach and could walk with crutches in a few days. My OS says 3 things: no running no downhill skiing You are never ever again in a rush. Other than that, no restrictions. There is no pain, and personally I am now more limited by my sore knees than my hip (but at airports they give me a hard time even with the card). My OS doesn't believe in doing the knees just because I walk slow as long as I don't have a lot of pain. Lynn Good luck in your decision. Is your OS experienced in the anterior approach where muscle is not compromised? > > > > > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in > > my hip > > > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to > everyone > > is, > > > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a > > case > > > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use > > a > > > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that > > I > > > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but > > when > > > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > > > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up > > to 10- > > > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to > > wait > > > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > > > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small > > children > > > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > > > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2008 Report Share Posted December 20, 2008 Believe me when you have the hip replacement done, and have recuperated, your children WILL hiave their fun mommy back! Lynn > > > > > I think the reason why it is so " personal " is that everyone is > willing > > > to put up with different degrees of restrictions. Almost everyone > who > > > has the surgery regrets waiting too long -- the onset of pain is > > > gradual and one tends to forget how circumscribed one's life is > getting. > > > > > > In your situation, I would schedule surgery because being 38 and > > > walking with a cane and not being able to partake of normal > activities > > > of life when there is an alternative that would give me back my > life > > > -- but it's a personal decision. > > > > > > The wonder of getting of bed the day after surgery and having NO > PAIN > > > in the hip -- minor surgical discomfort but one knows that gets > > > fainter and fainter each day as one heals -- and pain meds are > > > wonderful LOL. > > > > > > You should investigate hip resurfacing at your age -- or look for > a > > > doctor who does a true anterior approach -- since no muscles are > good, > > > there are no restrictions after surgery and significantly faster > > > recovery. > > > > > > Why are you delaying -- perhaps by vocalizing it, you can reach a > > > decision more easily. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2008 Report Share Posted December 20, 2008 Hey enjoy the wonderful 3 children you have and concentrate on your health. Sometimes another child is just not suitable for one's living conditions. Lynn > > > > And during that period of time one has one's life back --- as I had > > posted originally (and others agreed with), one often doesn't > realize > > how compromised one's life has become prior to surgery until > > AFTERWARDS when one realizes the gradual accommodations one made > > because of the increasing pain and lack of mobility. You are a young > > woman with children and you are willing to hobble around with a cane > > when you are likely enough to have a " disease " that can be > completely > > cured -- one that will give you a " normal " life. At 38 years old > (heck > > at 56 years when I had my surgery), I wouldn't have chosen that. > > ==================== > > > > Bingo with a big fat capital B! > > > > I was 35 when my hip started acting funny and my lower back > started > > to hurt. Nothing to major, but enough to notice. As time went on, > > it got worse. > > > > When I was 40, I went to my GP for Xrays and she said I had minor > OA > > and spinal spurs, but 'nothing major'. Funny, the pain and lack of > > mobility didn't seem minor to me. > > > > Go another year, it gets worse. Everyday activities pretty much > > cease. I gained alot of weight b/c of my inability to do > activity. > > Even carrying laundry from my bedroom to the washer killed my > back. > > Getting up from a seated position felt like I was 80 YO. I got > > little to no sleep b/c it was impossible to get comfortable. I was > > popping more ibuprofin all the time. > > > > I went to my GP who referred me to apparently the best > rhumatologist > > in the city who quickly dismissed my issues, told me to lose weight > > (I gained weight b/c it was too painful to do anything) and > > prescribed naproxen. He further stated an orthopod wouldn't look > at > > me until I was AT LEAST 50. In the meantime, my back would be > > thrashed because of the brunt it took from my hip that had ZERO > > rotation and mobility. > > > > I moved to another city for my dh's job. AFter getting settled, I > > searched out an orthopod and he wanted to try cortisone shots and > > fluid injections in teh joint first. I didn't mind trying them if > > they worked and avoided hip replacement surgery. the cortisone > shot > > worked for a couple weeks, but boy , did I feel like a million > > bucks. Next was the joint injection, that lasted for 6 months, but > > did nothing for my back pain.. in fact, it got worse. > > > > I finally went to the OS and told him I was done. I wanted the > > surgery. I had it done on Oct. 16 and as soon as I woke up, I was > > PAIN FREE, well, except for surgical pain. But I immediately felt > a > > difference. > > > > I have been completely pain free since. My back is still very weak > > from prior to the surgery, but physio is working on that. My > > physiotherapist tells me I'm teh greatest compensator on the face > of > > the planet. I found many ways to subsitute for the pain and use my > > body in strange ways to get around, avoid the pain and to avoid > using > > my bad hip. Now I have to learn to walk properly and not use the > old > > habits I had for 8 years. > > > > OP - have the surgery. You will not regret it. You will wonder > why > > you didn't do it before. I used to be so depressed from the pain, > > lack of mobility and reduced quality of life. I'm so much happier > > because I have hope. Honestly, you do not have to wait until you > are > > crawling to have this done. you deserve to have a decent quality > of > > life. > > > > My surgeon also advised against resurfacing. HE said that it was > > done too much, too soon and now studies are showing it's not all > that > > it was cracked up to be. Just not enough studies and period of > > history to recco it. > > > > Please do not allow yourself to remain in pain. I got used to > being > > in pain all the time, that I even denied myself appropriate meds in > > the hospital and at home post op thinking i should have some level > of > > pain. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2008 Report Share Posted December 28, 2008 Not to sound ignorant, which I probably will, but here goes anyway -- do the muscles regain their former function and shape after surgery? Re: Re: When to replace? I wanted to follow up on several points. First, Ed is entirely correct in terms of the newer technology -- the newest " parts " are intended for younger people as they have a theoretically much longer life than the older technology -- Fifteen, twenty years or or more -- who really knows? And when time time comes (if ever) that the part wears out and needs replacement, my assumption is that medical advances will have been made -- just compare the techniques used even 10 years ago. And during that period of time one has one's life back --- as I had posted originally (and others agreed with), one often doesn't realize how compromised one's life has become prior to surgery until AFTERWARDS when one realizes the gradual accommodations one made because of the increasing pain and lack of mobility. You are a young woman with children and you are willing to hobble around with a cane when you are likely enough to have a " disease " that can be completely cured -- one that will give you a " normal " life. At 38 years old (heck at 56 years when I had my surgery), I wouldn't have chosen that. Most of us hold out out of fear of the unknown -- I think it significant that most people have their second hip done (if necessary) much sooner than the first -- because knowing exactly what surgery/ recovery is like -- and weighing it against the life of pain and being in effect somewhat of an invalid -- well that is a NO BRAINER (at least in my opinion). If your OS is telling you to wait, I would seek a second opinion from another OS because the advice to wait is considered old fashioned at this point and was based on the older devices having a short life -- as well as their not being " large headed " . You should get a " large head " -- it reduces the risk of dislocation. With the operation for almost all people, one will soon have a life free of pain from the hip -- the ability to put on shoes and socks, to engage in normal activities -- to feel better psychologically -- because constant pain (even if one doesn't realize it) makes one depressed. And the longer one waits, the worse one's muscles become as one's body movements distort because of the pain -- On Dec 18, 2008, at 6:46 AM, emiller_22207 wrote: > : > > I had my right hip replaced at 42 and my left replaced at 44 (Sept. > 10 this year). Only you can decide when to do the surgery, but from > my experience I waited at least a year too long on the first hip. > What finally pushed me over the edge was (1) not being able to get a > good night's sleep, and (2) not being able to run around and play > ball with my girlfriend's little boy without jolting pain. > > I did a great deal of research beforehand. In the past, surgeons > generally recommended pushing off hip replacement for people our age > as far as possible due to the liklihood of needing a revision down > the road. The " old " style implants have a plastic cup which wears > over time. The newer, lager profile metal-on-metal and ceramic-on- > ceramic implants avoid the plastic cup, are hard to dislocate, and in > theory (and supported by lab testing) will last a lifetime. Of > course, there is no empiracle evidence because the implants have not > been in people long enough. > > If you are in otherwise good health, at your age you should recover > quickly from the surgery, live pain free, have great hip mobility, > and have no post op restrictions. I had the posterior approach on > both hips and left the hospital on crutches the second day after > surgery (two nights in the hospital). I'm an avid cyclist. After my > last hip replacement, I took a 10 mile bike ride exactly four weeks > post op. I played soccer and football in the backyard with my > girlfriend's boy this past weekend. > > Only you can judge, but don't put it off out of fear of surgery. > It's not that bad. > > Good luck, > -Ed > > > > > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my > hip > > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone > is, > > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a > case > > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but > when > > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to > 10- > > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to > wait > > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small > children > > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2008 Report Share Posted December 28, 2008 > > > > > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my > > hip > > > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone > > is, > > > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a > > case > > > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > > > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > > > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but > > when > > > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > > > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to > > 10- > > > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to > > wait > > > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > > > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small > > children > > > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > > > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 29, 2008 Report Share Posted December 29, 2008 Generally speaking, if everything goes well in surgery, you do your physical therapy, and your muscles have not become too weak from lack of use, your muscles should regain their former function. But, this is a question you should ask your surgeon. He will have a better grasp on your current physical condition and the liklihood of the degree of muscular recovery. > > > > > > Hi there everyone, Im new to this board. I am 38 and have OA in my > > hip > > > and I will need a THR in the near future. My question to everyone > > is, > > > how do you know you are ready to have a replacement? Or is it a > > case > > > of 'if you have to ask, then you are not ready'. I currently use a > > > cane and can walk with only minimal pain. My main problem is that I > > > cant bend my hip past 110 degrees, so sitting is challenging, but > > when > > > I return to standing position my hip locks up and I am unable to > > > straighten it. Usually only for a few minutes, but sometimes up to > > 10- > > > 15 mins. I guess I can put up with it for now, so am I better to > > wait > > > until I am begging for the THR? Or is just a desire for a better > > > quality of life enough, especially considering I have 3 small > > children > > > whom I would dearly love to walk to the park with. > > > Any opinions appreciated. Thanks. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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