Question
Dear Sharon,
First off I would like to Thank you for what you are doing in helping people with all these questions.  I had a left total hip replac. Nov. 16 2007., and basically all went well.  I thought I had researched it all but nothing prepared me for the recuperation time.  All research and classes are on pre-op, hospital stay, and getting home.  Just by going thru all the questions today I have answered some of my own. Oh my gosh, no one tells you how to go to the bathroom, when you are short how most chairs in your house are to long for you, sleeping in a bed was a nightmare for me the first couple months and sex postions was the last thing on my mind until just awhile ago, lol. I sure wish I had found you 3 months ago, you would have been a godsend!!!   My surgeon didn't believe in P.T. after sx either, i am 3 months post and just started due to my own asking and what a difference it makes. I am back to work part time.  I guess my one question is when does your energy level come back?  I just can't believe how fast I get drained.  And I didn't know the 3 month mark, which makes lots of sense to me now.  Anyways, I am very glad I found this site, Thank you for being there, and I plan on spreading the word to all.

Answer
Hi Debra

I'm glad you are finding the answers to your questions.  I agree, it would have been much easier to find all this out prior to your surgery, but at least you are getting your answers.

Everyone heals differently and there really is no norm in healing.  The surgery you had was major surgery, yes, it was elective, but it was major surgery and it can take up to 6 months to get back all your energy depending on the shape you were in prior to your surgery and your individiual healing.

I found most of my questions were answered not by my surgeons, but by the physical therapists.  My doctor did answer questions when I asked him but my PT offered advice since she had the experience with all different age groups.

The chairs you sit on should be high!  Try not to bend into low chairs when you sit.  You always have to keep the 90 degree angle rule in effect for as long as you can.  Never cross your legs over the midline of your body and for goodness sake, be careful in sex.  Never go on top of your partner.  I can tell you that's how I dislocated by being on top.  And you don't want to dislocate!

Take things slowly, don't move fast and think about what you do before you do it.

If you have any qualms about anything or something doesn't "feel" right, ask your surgeon or PT.

Best of luck to you, and if you have more questions, please email me.
My personal email is
[email protected]

Sharon