Question
I had my left hip replaced eight weeks ago. I'm doing very well, extremely healthy, walking without a cane since week three, and I have a horrible limp. It appears that I am severely knock kneed on the left side. I am rigorously doing all of the exercises my therapist gives me, but no help. I don't understand and frankly, I'm scared. I'm 61 and athletic and I did this to get better. Can you help?

Answer
Hi Lynne

Congratulations on your replacement!  There are several suggestions I have.  The first thing I want to tell you is that eight weeks out of surgery, you are doing well.  Please do not rush your recovery because you want to be sure you heal thoroughly and completely.

Having a limp at 8 weeks post op, is not uncommong and just to be sure, you might want to ask your orthopod to check your leg length to ensure they are even.  If there is more than a 1/4 difference in your legs,  you may need to use a lift inside your shoe to even out your gait.

Additionally, also remember that muscles take a long time to heal, up to six months or more to get back to normal.  Once the muscles heal, your gait should improve too.

Your knee issue may be due to a lack of muscle strength too.  

Any issues should also be brought up to your orthopod as well as the physical therapist, as your doctor can add exercies to your PT prescription.

Best of luck
Sharon