December 5, 2005 - Appointment With Surgeon
When I went to see my surgeon in his office about 2 or 3 weeks after surgery, he asked how I was feeling, encouraged me to work hard with the physical therapists who had already started coming to my house, and ofcourse I was there to have my staples removed. The doctor appointment was uneventful, but that's a good thing. Uneventful implies no complications! The surgeon did approve me to drive at around 6 to 8 weeks depending on how I felt I was progressing.
January 28, 2006 - Weeks Of Physical Tharapy
A physical therapist came to my house 3 times a week for 8 weeks following surgery. We started gradually with easy leg exercises but as soon as I mastered one, they had another exercise ready for me. I must say I worked well with my physical therapists (I had two - but only one at a time). Never really knowing how much they expected of me, I worked hard and gave 100% effort for every exercise they taught me. I was determined to build my strength back.
At the beginning of the 8 week PT session, I was still using two crutches. At around 6 weeks postop, I was able to walk with only one crutch. Shortly thereafter I turned in my crutch for a cane and used my cane until I felt I was stable when walking without it. I'm now walking strongly on my own without any mobility aids.
The last 3 weeks of PT, my therapist took me outside to walk. We increased the distance we would walk each time we went out. He also added weights into my exercise regimen - just 2 lb. weights on my ankles - to give more resistance during exercise.
It's important to work hard at rehabilitation and physical therapy. Wherever you find your motivation to work hard - do it! I was told on the last day of therapy that I surpassed the goals which were written for me (they don't let you see that) during my initial evaluation. I am happy with my progress. I am now walking unassisted and pain-free in the operated hip. I have my final appointment with my surgeon Monday Janaury 30. I know he will be as pleased as I am by the surgical outcome. I do however have a pair of red, swollen ankles to show him. Not sure what to think of that latest development yet.
Our Orthopedics Guide at About, Jonathan Cluett, M.D., has written excellent articles related to hip surgery.
Carol's Hip Replacement Diary:
