Arthritis is a curious pain in the lifestyle. I'm 54 y.o. and had my left hip replaced over three years ago. I was quite young for this surgery, but couldn't believe how arthritis robs you of your life. I was excited to get the surgery and rehab done, so I could enjoy life again! This blog is more than my story of hip replacement and recovery, it's about sharing health and wellness tips with others. I hope this adds health to your journey.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
It's all over now...or has it just begun?
WOW! It's been a month since I've blogged and boy are things different! Particularly, my brand new hip. On March 10th I had the replacement surgery and now I am in week 3 of recovery. Its all behind me now--thank god! The surgery went very well and my hospital stay on O'Neill 3 of Good Samaritan Hospital Joint Ex program was like being on vacation--well once the nausea and vomiting past. That was my only problem, really. My pain was being managed by the PCA pump, but I was so very nauseous from the anesthesia and pain meds. I also think I had some residual GI symptoms left over from the weekend before surgery. I am now off the narcotics and just taking Tylenol for pain. I"m walking with a cane for the most part, taking steps independently and even went out with my daughter today in the car for about an hour. The arthritic pain in my hip is gone! GONE! I only feel tenderness from the surgery, especially today with the dreary, rainy weather. My biggest challenge is to take it easy, not go overboard with recovery and exercising--so far , so good. Everyone has been so kind in sending their well wished via cards, flowers, reading material and fruit. I feel so very loved! I would love to hear from anyone out there who has had hip replacement surgery or is thinking about it!
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Hi Karen! I am so, so happy you went through with having your hip replacement surgery and that you are already feeling the benefits! I know you had been suffering a long time with pain and you were starting to lose your spunk!! Let me know when we can go for a walk. You are truly an inspiration to your patients, friends and families. I mean, what better field research for an arthritis and community outreach nurse than to have the surgery herself?!?! Congratulations and I hope to see you soon! -Kelly Stevens
ReplyDeleteKelly- WOW! Kelly--you are the very first person to answer my blog! I ws beginning to thing i was blogging incorrectly. Today I feel real good ...have had a real hard time with daily nausea but I hope that's behind me now. Orthopedically I am ahead of schedule and doing all of the advances exercises, careful not to be over zealous! Should be able to go walking in about 1.5 weeks--so let's do it. Thanks so much for keeping in touch! Karen
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