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Thank you for visiting the Totally Hip Member's Story
Books.
Have fun reading, and come back often to visit.
Eileen B - 04/17/98 16:57:53
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Comments:
I received your e-mail and was delighted to hear about the support group and the
newsletter.
Please add me to your list. Thanks! Eileen |
Margie - 04/17/98 10:52:06
City, State, Country: Sweetwater TX
Age: 50
Sex: female
What is the cause of your hip problems?: ingury 17 yrs. ago
What is/was your profession?: retail sales
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Comments:
I have been told to wait as long as possible to have surg. I have a lot of pain and cannot
sleep at times . My doc says I am too young. After surg. will I be completely pain free?
How long does the replacement last? What's in the future for total hips? Is it going to
get better as far as the technology? Yes I have A Dr. I work for 2 Ortho. Drs. They say to
wait. I say Owweeee. |
Terry B- 04/16/98 10:36:37
City, State, Country: Cork Ireland
Age: 30
Sex: male
What is the cause of your hip problems?: osteoarthritis
What is/was your profession?: sales/farmer
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Comments:
Going to see my surgeon on the first of May. I believe my operated leg is shorter than the
other. What questions should i ask him or what action can he take to correct
this. I do not fancy wearing a shoe lift and my other hip is fine. Terry B |
Matt S- 04/16/98 05:51:49
City, State, Country: Australia
Age: 36
What is the cause of your hip problems?: AVN
What is/was your profession?: Science
|
Comments:
Dear People, I think that there needs to be a FAQ page. Hear is some info that will answer
some of those questions as an easy read - albeit as learned from my own experience and
reading as a young male with three young children. Firstly, the artificial hip wears out
Not being living tissue it wears away as surely as do your tyres. The cementless type - of
the many types available - that young people like me (36) will probably be fitted with,
will last ten to thirty years depending on your level of activity and bod mass. However,
when worn out, there is a considerably less horrific op. In my case, the polyethylene
liner (a cup inside the permanent metal cup in the acetabulum) is slipped out and replaced
- and in some cases so is the cobalt ball (it to is detachabl from the permanent shaft
which is inserted down the centre of the femur). With each "reline", the
ligaments that do nearly all the work to hold the hip joint together become more damaged,
and so the joint becomes slightly less stable, ie. more likely to dislocate. Being a big
bastard who does a lot, I am looking at a decade replacement regime. A second and more
serious problem is the possibility of a non-successful out come. The reasons include:
Dying on the table - an extremely small but finite chan e. Infection by MRSA - about 1%.
You can become extremely ill. In some very rare cases it results in death. In some other
very rare cases in bones, amputation is required . Non adhesion of the bone to the coated
metal sometimes occurs - this results i more pain than before and possible replacement
with a cemented prosthesis. You do not one of those unless you are older with slower
healing capacities - they slowly come loose with time and need wholesale replacement and
you can only have three or four f them because of the damage done to the bone. Lysis of
bone tissue may start - your immune system may attack the wear particles that come off the
prosthesis and in doing so cause destruction of surrounding bone tissue. This is serious
and may result in having to have a cemented hip and/or drugs to tone down the immune
system. The prosthesis may be put in at a slightly wrong angle (it is a very difficult op)
and you may have a higher than acceptable chance of dislocation. Over time the bone around
the op of the femur will weaken because the metal is so strong that it takes all the load,
therefore the bone resorbs. This is akin to, but not quite the same as, osteoporosis. I
hope that all this info is not now depressing you, it should not, since all of t, bar the
last two points, are not common - you are on a good wicket being young, as most of these
problems are for older people. Overall, you are likely to have a 98% chance of an
excellent to good result if you are young. The health system here in Aus ralia is similar
to the UK, but our waiting times are, so I am informed, a little shorter. However, any of
the waiting times are almost an irrelevancy. The reason is that your surgeon (or
specialist) can give your case what ever priority they deem necessary - you can be in that
week if you are an acute case! I could hardly walk and needed crutches for long distances.
As soon as I had left work on unpaid leave, I wrote a letter to my surgeon and told my
story of woe. It had been my choice to put things ff for so long - it was psychologically
difficult for me to accept that I was crippled (bit of a man's thing - shh) - I was in the
following week. As for cost, I paid $0. Nice system here - all free, public! At the moment
I am hobbling on the crook leg ore by the week. The new hip improves while the old
deteriorates. You can judge the extent of your own AVN and the associated pain by looking
at your X-ray or CAT scan and/or MRI. When the head of the femur is starting to collapse,
ie. flatten out, you ill be in moderate pain but it will continue to worsen rapidly with
the collapse. The best thing for the pain is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. Without
it, sleep is but a memory. Being blind drunk works too. Post-op pain is no big deal, 'tis
true - it simply hurts a hell of a lot for a few days, a lot for a week, somewhat for a
month or two and it nags less and less until it is completely gone after about six months.
I only used codeine for a week and paracet mol for a month. My best advice is to be quite
physically fit before the op. Then in post-op do all the exercises almost continuously for
months. My experiences in sport gave me the psychological tools to push straight through
the pain of the exercises - it is almost like masochism. All in all, I am happy as a pig
in mud with the outcome. In fact, I was in the surf just 8 weeks after surgery. Although,
I must confess that I had a dislocation about a week after surgery - I do not know why it
happened th ugh - I was just sitting there and, clunk! it fell out. It has not happened
since. I am building a house in my spare time - up and own ladders, jumping off
scaffolding, carrying very big heavy things and so on. I am just careful not to flex my
hip so th t my knee is closer than about 70 degrees to my torso - this is about 90 degrees
at the actual hip joint. This is because your spine can bend the other 20 degrees in
addition to the right angle that the specialists will tell you is a maximum for the hip.
did tell my specialist of a bloke I had had correspondence with, who at 2 years post-op
can pull his knee onto his chest while floating in a swimming pool. The Doc's eyes watered
as he cringed and intermated he did not like to hear of any loon courting uch dangerous
behaviour. Email me if you want any more info, but be aware that I will be flying out next
week (24th April) and won't return until late in July. |
Gary G - 04/15/98 07:30:26
My
City, State, Country: Copperas Cove, TX
Age: 47
How many hip surgeries have you had?: none
What is the cause of your hip problems?: degeneration
What is/was your profession?: electronics tech
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Comments:
Hello, I am Gary's wife. He is on the road with GTE and just found out today
that he needs a hip replacement. Since he will have it done here at home,
this on the road doc didn't give us much information. He has a new job
starting in May - until October and a 5 year one after that. We need to know
how long it takes to be able to go back to work - providing everything goes
all right? Also - he is a bit overweight and reading through some of your
letters I think that could be a problem? Any and all information would be
appreciated.
Thank you very much |
pat w - 04/15/98 01:25:52
City, State, Country: oxford,wi usa
Age: 62
Sex: female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: none
What is the cause of your hip problems?: arthritis
What is/was your profession?: school van driver
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Comments:
I was finally after 10 years of doctoring and being treated for everything from hernias to
spine and back problems,they finally decided that it was my hip,and if it hadn't been for
your group I would still be doubting.When I read the letters I couldn't elieve my eyes. it
was like I had wrote every letter I read.Here I thought I was the only one that had (groin
pain) that is why I doubt that I had hip problems.Any way I seen the doctor today and they
won't do anything for me till I lose a lot of weight because they are afraid of long
recovery if I don't and they are afraid of not having the total benefit from the surgery
if I don't and I can understand this I would like to know if anybody else had or has this
problem? and if there is anyone from the group that is from wisconsin and if you know any
good surgeons I doctor at the university of wi, hospitals and clinics. Well I'm going for it
and going to see how much (baby fat) I can lose in a couple of months in the meantime I
will keep up with all of your rec verys. Maybe I can find a doctor that can just stretch me
out and then I would be taller and then I wouldn't be so fat!! I'm only 5'so every time I
open my mouth I gain.T hanks for being here for me. I'm really frightened about the whole
ordeal and I hope can with stand the stress it is causing me. |
Beth D - 04/13/98 17:20:57
City, State, Country: Moore,SC USA
Age: 37
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Asceptic Necrosis due to chemotherapy
What is/was your profession?: stay at home mom
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Comments:
I have had hip/leg pain off and on for the last 19 years, since I had chemotherapy for
Hodgkins. The pain has greatly increased in the last year to where it hurt almost all of
the time. I finally went to the doctor in March. He did an X-ray and told me that I had
asceptic necrosis in my left hip and that it was starting in my right hip(I have no pain
yet in my right side). A hip replacement is in my future. He suggested that I take Cosamin
DS. I did so reluctantly. After 3 weeks of taking this, I no iced that the pain had
greatly decreased. It has been 5 weeks now and I have almost no pain. It is wonderful. It
will never be 100% but my hip/leg feel great. I highly suggest looking into this
"nutritional supplement" |
Terry B- 04/13/98 13:14:04
City, State, Country: cork Ireland
Age: 30
What is the cause of your hip problems?: osteoarthritis
What is/was your profession?: sales rep / farmer
|
Comments:
Had my left hip replaced on 30 May 97 Got a second opinion before i went for it. Just had
stiffness in the morning---- i was not bad Now i must see my surgeon on the 1st of May
because i have a limp. I think my leg was left short. Regards Terry B |
maureen v- 04/13/98 12:25:48
City, State, Country: Waban, MA 02168
Age: 46
Sex: Female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: one 5/19/98
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Congenital
What is/was your profession?: MD
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Comments:
How do I join this illustrious group? I am having my first replacement on 5/19/98 and I'm
a bit apprehensive--any tips from all of you? |
Eileen B- 04/11/98 03:40:33
City, State, Country: Bradenton Fl USA
Age: 73
What is the cause of your hip problems?: arthritis
What is/was your profession?: probation supervisor
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Comments:
I had hip replacement surgery in December. did my exercises until recently when I had gall
bladder surgery and had to discontinue exercises because of complications! I am worried. I
have a pulling sensation in the right buttocks and imagine this is a muscle. The rest of
your life, do you have to avoid bending down on the right side? So many questions??? |
MARTIN B - 04/10/98 18:40:44
City, State, Country: NORWICH, NORFOLK, ENGLAND
Age: 46
Sex: MALE
How many hip surgeries have you had?: ONE
What is the cause of your hip problems?: AVN
What is/was your profession?: GENERAL MANAGER
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Comments:
I FOUND THE TOTALLY HIP SUPPORT GROUP INVALUABLE WHEN I WAS IN PAIN AND NOT SURE ABOUT
WHAT AVN REALLY WAS. ALSO IT HELPED TO PUT MY MIND AT REST WHEN FACED WITH THR OF MY RIGHT
HIP. |
ferd r- 04/06/98 02:22:45
City, State, Country: pennsylvania
Age: 42
Sex: male
What is the cause of your hip problems?: avn - prednisone
What is/was your profession?: project manager
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Comments:
it was easier to get around at your previous internet location. how come i don't show up
on Prayer Rock, i'm having a left THR on April 10, 1998, Good Friday. |
Bryan S - 04/05/98 18:44:57
City, State, Country: British Columbia, Canada
Age: 36
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Avascular Necrosis (Leg Perthes)
What is/was your profession?: Computer Technician
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Comments:
Boy, am I glad I found this site! I had no idea such a group existed before this. I've had
troubles with my right hip from the age of 5, when I was diagnosed with Leg Perthes
disease. It was not caught early enough, resulting in the femural head being badly and
permanently deformed. By the time I was 13, the various surgeries to correc the problem
were all over and I got on with life as usual with only minor pain and fatigue. Two years
ago that all changed and the pain has grown steadily worse ever since to the point now
where I can barely walk with the aid of a cane. Last year several bone fragments were
removed from inside the right hip socket, but it didn't alleviate the pain. It looked like
it was time to look at THR as a serious option. The doctors gave me the usual run-around -
I'm too young; I should wait 'til I'm sixty... I finally had enough of the games and told
my surgeon that I needed to do something about the pain, and that if that meant a THR,
then so be it. He told me to wait a other 15 years. In response I said, "For what? So
that I can enjoy the quality of life THEN that I should be enjoying NOW??" He
couldn't answer. I've done my best to keep the pain in perspective, but it's now invaded
every part of my life. I can't sleep, I can't think half the time and it's affecting the
rest of my family. I'm scared to death of the surgery, but the alternative - no surgery
and on going, worsening pain - scares me even more. It's time to do something about it NOW!
I finally found an excellent surgeon some 200 miles away in Vancouver at a major complex
joint clinic. He was honest and straight with me. He didn't patronize me or hide any of
the risks. On top of that, he's new in town and has a short waiting list. I wa n't sure
just how short short was until I got a call from his office a few days later telling me
that he had booked me in for surgery in 3 weeks! I go in on the 8th of April, 3 days from
now... I haven't had long to worry about it and I'm sure glad that that is the case. As it
is I'm near numb with panic. It's not the surgery I'm fearful of though - I've been
through enough of those already. It's t e long recovery I'm not too keen for. Since they
won't be using glue, I'll be off my leg for 3 months. I'm just trying to imagine myself
doing nothing all summer long... Well, I'll leave it at that for now. I'll try to check
back once I'm out and let all and sundry know how I'm doing. Bryan |
Lisa H- 04/04/98 00:16:13
City, State, Country: emmonak, Alaska
Age: 40
Sex: fm
What is the cause of your hip problems?: osteoarthritis
What is/was your profession?: educator
|
Comments:
I first became a member in January of 97. I was so elated to finally network with other
individuals experiencing the same. I obtained a wealth of information from the support
group. I held off surgery till the surgeons said that if something wasn't done soon, I
could do even more damage to my pelvis. So I finally consented and had a THR in my left
hip at Beaumont Hospital, Michigan by Dr. Greene III. Everything has gone so well. I was
back cross country skiing after 21/2 months. I'm still rebuilding my muscles in my left
leg but I feel so revitalized. It feels great to be able to walk w/o pain once more! My
Best to you all. |
Jeanette C- 04/03/98 15:12:00
City, State, Country: currently living in Indonesia
Age: 31
Sex: female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: none. Considering one
What is the cause of your hip problems?: CDH
What is/was your profession?: teacher
|
Comments:
I have always had some pain in my right hip but in the last few years it has become almost
unbearable. I cannot move the leg outwards at all and cannot walk more than about five
minutes. I can still swim and ride a bike with no problems however. My right nee is now
also suffering. I am flying back to England in June especially to see a doctor about what
can be done. In the past I have always been told to get lost and come back when I'm sixty.
Is my condition bad enough now for a hip replacement? Some of the stories here make my
problem seem small but my life is considerably affected by this problem. Can anyone tell
me if there are any alternatives to THR? Would I be better off waiting until I need a
wheelchair? If I make this trip will I be told to get stuffed and be happy
that I at least have a leg. I'd love to hear from anyone who can answer any
of these questions or who has similar problems. |
Alissa Anne L - 04/03/98 04:46:48
City, State, Country: Seattle, WA
Age: 27
Sex: Female
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Car accident
What is/was your profession?: Teacher
|
Comments:
Well, here is a second entry from me. Interesting event happened a couple of weeks ago.
While getting my mail at school my THR popped out of socket, dislocation, extremely
painful and it scared a lot of my students and staff. Luckily, there were a couple of
people around to catch me. I was taken to the hospital, given a lot of drugs to put me out
and then the doctor physically "yanked" it back into place. I don't remember any
of the procedure. I am now off crutches, but extremely concerned about it happening again.
The scary thing is, I wasn't doing anything except taking a step forward. |
joyce f - 04/02/98 20:23:43
City, State, Country: Galveston, Tx USA
Age: 58
Sex: female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: 1 need the other one also
What is the cause of your hip problems?: AVN
What is/was your profession?: Director of Pre-school
|
Comments:
About 1 year ago I developed a severe pain in my right hip. I used crutches for 10 months
before I had surgery. I tried the core decompression and a bone graft in May 1997 and it
did not releive the pain so in November 1997 I had the hip replacement. I ave been
releived of the terrible pain but it still hurts most of the time. But it is bearable and
I CAN WALK without crutch or cane. I know I need the other hip done but I am just enjoying
this time right now of freedom and mobility. I did have to take early retirement because
my job was physically demanding. I MISS my little preschool children. I loved my job. I
worked in preschool for 21 years up until last May 1997. I am married to THE MOST
WONDERFUL guy in the world. We will have our 39th anniversary in August. I don't know how
people make it through the hip replacement when they do not have the love an support I
have needed this last year. I feel blessed with my husband and my 2 grown children. Our son
age 24 graduated from Rice University 1996 and is in Seattle at the Univ. of Washington in
the Math doctoral program Our daughter graduated from Tx. A & M and is a system
analyst with Shriner hospital in Galveston. I am so glad I found you web site. I just went
"on line" last month. |
Kathy S- 03/31/98 01:31:33
City, State, Country: Cleveland, TX
Age: 30
Sex: Female
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Pigmented Villanodular Synovitis
What is/was your profession?: Elem. Teacher
|
Comments:
For starters, let me say that my first comment page was written by my husband who forgot
to capitalize May. My second page was by me...a new member to the computer age. I hope
this time I get it right. If you want to read my story, sit back and relax, o me it seems
to go on forever!Three and one-half years ago, I was pregnant with my second child. Silly
me, I thought the pain I was having in my hip was due to the pregnancy. The day I left the
hospital after having my son, I knew it was something else I let several months go by
because I didn't want to miss anymore school. I went to my first doctor and he didn't take
an x-ray. He told me it was a back problem and sent me to PT. My therapist is the one who
said "No way!" I went back to the same doctor who finally took an x-ray and told
me that I had AVN and would have surgery in two days (decompression). His office called me
the next day to say that I needed to have an MRI. All my records were then sent to Dr.
Robert Bucholz in Dallas. He took more x-rays, aspirated my hip using CT scan, more CT,
needle biopsy (OUCH!!!), before deciding that I probably had PVNS. I was then scheduled
for a synovectomy that proved his dignosis. I already had bone and cartilage loss and was
told that I would need a HR within five years. I have tried to live with pain for as long
as I could, but have found it unbearable. I am now scheduled for my "first" THR
on May 5. After reading many of the stories on this web site, I am terrified!!!! I do not
like reading the stories about dislocation. I do have some questions though. Which is
better - cemented or uncemented? Will I be able to sit and cross my legs like a
"lady"? At age 30, I am really afraid of the surgeries to come. How many can I
expect to have in my l fetime? I know that I have gone on and on but I have never had
anyone to talk to about this that knows what I'm talking about. I would really appreciate
hearing from anyone who could help answer my questions. Thanks! |
Carol E - 03/30/98 21:39:47
City, State, Country: Minneapolis, MN USA
Age: 47
How many hip surgeries have you had?: First THR scheduled for 4-8-98
What is the cause of your hip problems?: AVN, steroids intermittently for two years
in conjunction with chemo for acute leukemia
What is/was your profession?: Librarian
|
Comments:
For last month have been in "analysis paralysis" due to information overload on
hip replacement options (cemented vs. uncemented) and other possible treatments (core
decompression, vascularized free fibular grafting, etc.) Finally decided just to have th
surgery and let the surgeon decide best course of action. Hoping for an excellent outcome,
and for good options when revision is needed. |
Arlene - 03/29/98 23:37:59
City, State, Country: San Diego, CA
Age: 58
Sex: female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: one
What is the cause of your hip problems?: osteoarthritis
What is/was your profession?: clerical
|
Comments:
Surgery on right hip was done Jan. 7, 1998 and I came home 5 days later. Surgery was
successful and I am still recovering. |
| Greg I 03/29/98 16:55:57
City, State, Country: New Hampshire
Age: 47
Sex: male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: 0 (first 4-8-98)
What is the cause of your hip problems?: OA
What is/was your profession?: High School Math Teacher
|
Comments:
I've been told that I didn't explain enough in my first posting, which was yesterday.
So... I am currently scheduled for a THR of the left hip on 4-8-98 but, as I've been
telling everyone, I can still back out. My doctors tell me that my hip pain is due to OA
which resulted from an injury that must have occurred when I was 9 - 12 years old. I ave a
bunch of (numbered) questions below, if anyone has the time to answer them with their
opinions. (Again, thanks.) One thing that bothers me is that this surgery is one that is
scheduled when the patient is ready, i.e., when the pain becomes too limiting! (#1) Should
I endure the pain, i.e., am I being a wimp? (Male ego says I should be able to "tough
it out".) My biggest fear (other than the "normal" fears of major surgery,
is that I may be worse when this is done. I am mostly concerned with limitations because
the hip may dislocate. (#2) Is this fear purposely exaggerated so people won't overdo it?
(#3) Is t really quite difficult to dislocate an artificial hip, once it has fully healed?
(#4) Will I have to live my life in fear of dislocating my hip? Although I have never been
very athletic, it has been about 3 years now since I have been able to run even the 60
feet to first base with my kid's T-ball team. (#5) Will I be able to run at least that
far, or is there absolutely no running on these hips? (I even used to jog 5 miles a day,
and enjoyed it!) All of the furniture in my house is "normal", i.e., low. (#6)
Will I eventually be able to sit on our couch again? (#7) Can anyone tell me if I will
have to abandon my waterbed? (#8) While on the subject, how long before I'll be able to
use a regular t ilet again, if ever? I'm sorry to have been so long-winded here, but I am
quite preoccupied with the surgery. I forgot to mention that I am a high school math
teacher and only a handful of my students currently know that I'm going to be out for a
while. (#9) Does anyone hav any predictions on when I can go back to work? I'm 47 years
old. I've lived a normal, healthy life. (For the past 20 years I've barely used my health
insurance, since my annual physical has always been part of my deductable!) I'm married
with three children (ages 13, 10, 8) and want to be able to g camping for most of the
summer. (#10) Will I be able to crawl into a tent again? Thank you to anyone who can take
the time to help me with these questions. |
| Greg I
03/29/98 02:23:31
City, State, Country: Barrington, NH, USA
Age: 47
Sex: male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: 0 (first is 4-8-98)
What is the cause of your hip problems?: OA
What is/was your profession?: High School Math Teacher
|
Comments:
I worry that I'll be able to do less after surgery than I can do now. If anyone has any
thoughts on this, I'd like to hear them. I'm particularly afraid of dislocation, but I
can't tell how possible/probable that is. |
Misty N - 03/28/98 04:42:32
City, State, Country: De Queen, Arkansas--U.S.A.
Age: 17
Sex: female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: two
What is the cause of your hip problems?: injury--arthrits
What is/was your profession?: student(high school--11th grade)
|
Comments:
When I was 10 I fell down some stairs and tore cartlige in my knee. My doctor gave me a
mobiolizer and some crutches then told me to stay off of it for a week. I still went to
school-5th grade at the time. I was in gifted and talanted and we had a trip o go on. So,
I was determined to go, crutches and all. The trip went fine. As soon as we got back to
school it started to rain. My grandma was a teacher and she would take me home after
school. She was so happy that I had made it okay, she really did 't think of the rain
having any effect on my crutches. She let me off in front of her house, parked the car ,
came and unlocked the door, and headed on in the house. I followed right behind her. She
had a lynolymn (plastic like tile) floor and my crutc es were wet and I sliped. I was
still in my mobilizer--it kept my knee from bending-- so I ended up breaking off my left
growth plate in my hip. The doctor put pins in it, but my body wouldn't accept them. The
pins kept rubbing against the outside ten on on my leg. So, he took them out. A couple of
years later my bone in my hip socket started to die. My hip bone is now arthritic and
looks extremely deformed in my X-rays. The problem at hand is that when I rotate my leg a
certain way--like getting o t of my car--- there is a little piece of bone that catches on
my socket and I can't walk when this happens. My doctor wants me to wait as long as I can.
"to stand the pain as long as possible" were his exact words. The reason being
that I'm so young nd as you all know you can have only a certain amount of hip
repalcements. I'm really scared and really don't know what to do. My mom is a really big
help to me through all of this, she the one who told me about you guys. I take arthritis
medcine and n rcotics for the pain-- don't worry my doctor perscribed them. I really would
like your suggestions and your prayers not your pity. I don't know how long I can stand
this. Thanks for your time. Misty |
| Bob H - 03/27/98 19:55:26
City, State, Country: St. Charles,MO USA
Age: 71
Sex: Male
What is the cause of your hip problems?: arthritis
What is/was your profession?: SW Bell Tel.- Retired
|
Comments:
My left hip was replaced about 6 years ago and the right was completed on 2/23/98. I'm not
completly mobile at this time. Still limited to using a walker to get around the house.
Expecting to have similar 100% success with this one. |
Renette - 03/26/98 22:50:02
City, State, Country: CA
Age: 21
Sex: Female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: awaiting first
What is the cause of your hip problems?: fractured acetibula
|
Comments:
This is an update of my previous message. I am scheduled for a THR of my left hip on April
17. I am a little aprehensive about it, but i have heard from many people that things will
be fine. |
Sheryl - 03/25/98 05:20:21
City, State, Country: Louisville, KY
Age: 45
Sex: Female
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Avascular Necrosis both hips
What is/was your profession?: Associate Pastor/Director of Music
|
Comments:
I was going to a doctor for arthritic pain. He treated me by giving me 2 steriod shots in
my hips every month for two years. In 1994 I told him that my hips were hurting. Instead
of ordering a X-ray he just gave me another pill to take. I became frust ated and sought
another doctor's opinion. After that doctor took my medical history, he knew right away
that I had AVN. It was confirmed through a MRI. My orthopedic doctor did a Core
Decompression on both hips. It helped the pain for awhile; however, after a couple of
years the ball of my right hip collapsed and caused me excruiating pain. In November of
1997, I had a THR of the right hip. Eventually my left hip may have to be replaced.
Presently, I'm doing pretty good. The pain is not as constant and severe; although I'm
still having pain in the groin periodically. I don't understand that. If someone has
experienced the same I'd appreciate a response. |
| Joyce C 03/25/98 02:05:55
City, State, Country: Frederick, MD USA
Age: 48
Sex: Female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: Anticipating first
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Congenital dislocation/arthritis
What is/was your profession?: Assistant Museum Coordinator
|
Comments:
This is an update on my letter from a couple weeks ago. I have a surgery date of April 29
for a total hip replacement on the left hip. Although there are concerns, I am encouraged
by two of the older ladies who volunteer at the museum where I work. Bot of them have had
THRs done by my surgeon and both of them are doing very well. I'll be glad to be able to
walk as well as they do! Thanks for this website. Joyce |
Scott A 03/24/98 21:56:28
City, State, Country: Bloomington, Indiana
Age: 50
Sex: male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: looking at the first
What is the cause of your hip problems?: arthritis
What is/was your profession?: accountant
|
Comments:
Now seems the time to make as much contact with experienced folks as I am able. Thank you
for doing this! |
| Keith E 03/24/98 17:01:06
City, State, Country: Rock Island, IL
Age: 53
Sex: male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: one
What is the cause of your hip problems?: AVN
What is/was your profession?: School Administrator
|
Comments:
In June of 1997 I had a THR right side due to AVN. I am now doing very well, however, I
have been experiencing some joint stiffness. I have a very slight limp, but almost weekly
I am doing better. I didn't think the recovery period would be quite so long |
| Allen B 03/24/98 05:20:13
City, State, Country: Norwalk,Ct.
Age: 35
Sex: male
What is the cause of your hip problems?: football
What is/was your profession?: business owner
|
Comments:
I had a football accident when I was 14.My hips were susceptible due to a weakening from
slipped apythesis. I had 4 surgeries(2 to put pins in and 2 to take pins out). During
college and after I felt strong enough to compete in basketball leagues and weight
lifting
competitions. The last 4 or 5 years have gotten tougher and tougher. I had to give up all
cardio activities. The only exercise I get is upper body weightlifting. I am now using a
cane to walk. As I am getting married may of 99 and I want to walk down the aisle and dance
at my wedding (and in the future play with my kids), I have opted for THR. I have interviewed
8 doctors in CT and NY. It was important for me to find the doctor that I felt most
comfortable with. I am having surgery on 4/8 at the Hospital of Special Surgery in
NY. Doctor Sculco is the doctor. He is going to do both hips at the same time. Has anybody
had any experience with doing both at once?? Honestly, I was not nervous at all until I read
some of the troublesome stories on this site (guess I needed a dose of reality). Well if
anybody wants to converse please feel free. Also-after I get it done I will be happy to
tell anybody who is going to go thru it what to expect. So glad I
stumbled on this website. BTW a friend at my gym who is 57 has had both hips replaced and is
on his 10 year anniversary and doing great (lifts more than me-however he does no cardio). |
Dee - 03/23/98 14:12:32
City, State, Country: The Hague, The Netherlands
Age: 40
Sex: Female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: one
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Accident at home
What is/was your profession?: Housewife
|
Comments:
I had my accident 6 weeks ago, slipped on a tiled floor and fell very hard on my left
side. Thought my wrist was broken but never suspected the hip... Was operated on that
night with two screws inserted in the ball (sorry, my knowledge of the technical erms is
sadly lacking!) I was very lucky - had very little pain but now I've been reading up on
this AVN which my doctor just happened to mention in passing and that worried me. However,
reading your various accounts in this site has made me put my little problem
in perspective. I thought I was the only "young" one to have a broken hip
(since the average age in the room at the hospital was about 87) and the
thought of constant hip replacements over the next 30 years depressed me. I
have always been extremely fit and
healthy and having three little ones to look after (2, 4 and 6 yrs) I need full mobility!
I went back for an Xray and checkup this morning expecting to be told to "throw down
your crutches and walk" only to be told to put a little more weigh on the leg for the
next three weeks - then go back for yet another Xray, so I was a little disappointed.
However, reading what has happened to everyone else has jolted me out of my self pity. Now
I'm going to have a glass of milk! Cheers. |
| Hal K - 03/23/98 05:09:14
City, State, Country: Danbury, Ct, USA
Age: 66
Sex: Male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: One - Right side
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Osteoarthritis
What is/was your profession?: Industrial Electrician, retired
|
Comments:
Conrary to many comments on the boards, I had THR done on 12/31/97. All has not gone well.
Had I been informed of the magnitude of the problems possible I would not have had it
done. I have had the hip dislocate three times! The pain is incredible! My Doctors are the
best with loads of experience. A recent examination by a big name doctor at the Hospital
for Joint Diseases in NYC, to whom they refered me for consultation, confirms their
diagnosis. I am probably not a "healer", which means that the sc r tissue that
holds things together is extremely slow to heal. There is no way of predicting this
affliction. Each dislocation increases the probability that it may never heal due to
stretched tissues. The normal six week recovery period has now turned i to a three month
(after the most recent dislocation) "wait and see" episode during which I must
wear a heavy brace. If things do not improve in that time a new joint will be needed - one
that secures the ball deeper in the socket with resulting increased ear and shorter life
span. Meanwhile, I'm still sucking down pain killers and getting very little sleep. Hope
this puts some light on the possible outcomes for someone contemplating this procedure. |
Iris C - 03/22/98 10:10:35
City, State, Country: Auckland, New Zealand
Age: 79
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Tripped Over
What is/was your profession?: Secretary/Typist
|
Comments:
I had a partial hip replacement in July 1997. Fell in the street and broke the small bone
(forgotten it's name). Had an ulcer on the opposite ankle, so had a clash of interest
regarding mobility. Got another ulcer, near other one and got blood poisoning. Then fell
down a 2 metre bank at Xmas, nothing broken but huge haematoma on opposite hip and
bruising in a band right around me. Think I blacked out as my blood pressure elevated
around that time. The ulcers have healed. Now I have a lot of pain down t e front of my
thigh (the side of the hip surgery) from the groin to the knee. I'm getting depressed from
the pain. I can't remember if that pain was there before the 2nd fall or not. Have had
X-rays recently which show no reason for the pain. Was told the metal rod in my thigh goes
almost to the knee and that most rods don't go down that far. Am interested to know if
anyone else has pain down the thigh 8 months after surgery. I've just started going to
Physiotheraphy to see if that helps. The pain g ts me down and I don't want to take too
many painkillers because I'm on so many blood pressure pills. I also feel frustrated at
how my life has been restricted as I was quite sprightly before this happened. My husband
died 4 years ago, and I live in a la ge flat adjoined to my daughter's house. She is
writing this for me. If I hadn't had the ulcers, I could have moved about more often after
the surgery, but that didn't happen, so no use presuming. The doctors I've seen (2) both
can't give me any reason or the pain. Iris |
David H- 03/21/98 19:56:54
City, State, Country: North Huntingdon, Pa.
Age: 44
Sex: Male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: one
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Arthuritis
What is/was your profession?: Sales
|
Comments:
Had mine left hip replaced July 3,1995! After 6 years of suffering and just putting the
operation off. Praise God no more pain and I can walk without a limping. |
Vicky - 03/21/98 15:54:00
City, State, Country: Edgerton, oh
Age: 43
Sex: female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: none
What is the cause of your hip problems?: osteoarthritis
What is/was your profession?: physical therapy aide
|
Comments:
I am facing my first thr on April 21 and needless to say I am very scared. Currently when I
walk it is bone on bone, so something has to be done. I have worked with many people that
have had it done, but it is different when it is you. I dearly enjoy the letters that I
have read.. I would appreciate any letters of encouragement from anyone. Thank you. Vicky |
Dazny D - 03/19/98 06:05:29
City, State, Country: Baton Rouge, La. USA
Age: 35
Sex: Male
How many hip surgeries have you had?: None. Need Advice
What is the cause of your hip problems?: AVN - Asthma/Cortisone?
What is/was your profession?: Radio GM/Teacher (IS)
|
Comments:
I've just been given results of my MRI which indicates Stage 1 Bi-Lateral AVN. My Femoral
Heads remain spherical without joint abnormality. My Doctor says that a core bone
decompression should be done on both hips. I see VERY FEW letters that say encouraging
things about this procedure. I'm currently undergoing Physical and Massage Therapy. I'm a
Big guy 6'2 and 250 pounds. The Dr. is a little worried that at my BIGNESS, I might
fracture a core decompression and then I would be in BIG trouble. I've considered trying
to put off the core d compression until School ends in June (so I can keep teaching)
Should I? Should I try to go on a massive diet between then and now? Does AVN ever
DEGRESS? The Orthopedist has performed 4 (FOUR) of these decompression procedures. Is that
enough? PLEASE HELP ! I have a baby girl and another child on the way, and I'd like to be
able to play with them (and SKI with them someday) Thanks!!! |
Cindy R- 03/19/98 02:04:18
City, State, Country: Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada
Age: 48
Sex: Female
How many hip surgeries have you had?: One
What is the cause of your hip problems?: Legg-Calves Perthes
What is/was your profession?: Real Estate Agent, Executive Secretary
|
Comments:
I was diagnosed with Legg Perthes disease at 10 years old. Spent most of my life in pain,
but it just becomes a way of life. I had some surgery 22 years ago to help with movement
but I developed a staph infection and was told I would never be able to have a THR. One
day a lady at my gym saw me walking and knew what was wrong and we began talking and she
had the same problem with infection but had a successful THR.I found a surgeon who would
take a chance and had my surgery a year ago. It wasn't cemented i so I'm still having some
"settling in" also, problems from the rest of my body from the years of having
one leg 3/4" shorter than the other, trust me I'm not complaining . I've been given a
"gift" I never thought I'd have and I thank the Lord. Thank you Linda for this
website, it's great!!! |
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