Question
My 20 yr old daughter had 3 screws placed 3 weeks ago due to a hip stress fracture.  Is it normal for her to still feel the screws (in the bone--not the heads through the skin and muscle on the side)?  Will this get better?  The surgeon said she will be able to resume all previous activities ( inc running, snow skiing, water skiing etc.)  Is this correct?  He has not recommended any PT.

Answer
Hi Dana

Unfortunately, my expertise is in recovery of hip replacement patients, but I can take a stab at your daughter's question.

Her surgery was only three weeks ago and she is still healing.  I am certain that it will take at least 3 to 6 months for her to heal completely and at that time, as she becomes more active, the feeling of the screws will become less.

If there is any change to the anatomy of the hip, she may also feel those changes through the skin on her hip.  This is normal.

My one question that I would ask the doctor is in regard to bone formation.  Will the surgery change your daughters need for calcium and/or Vitamin D?  Will she be at risk for bone problems in that area as she ages?  What can she do to prevent any problems with the bones in the future?

If you have not asked those questions to your doctor, please do.

Best of luck to you and your daughter.

Sharon Davis