Another Diva out for awhile

[cyn]

I haven't posted for ages, because I've been going through some health stuff and it's finally coming to a head.

I've had osteoarthritis in both knees for many years. My right knee is by far the worst, with absolutely no cartilage left. While I've been focusing on my knee problem, my right hip has degenerated because of the way I've been walking to compensate for the knee.

I've been complaining of hip pain for a couple of years. My orthopedist told me it was just my IT band, but when the pain continued, I switched docs and my new ortho ordered an X Ray. The good news is my left hip is fine. The bad news is my right hip is a mess.

Luckily, my bone mass is good enough for me to qualify for a relatively new procedure called "hip resurfacing." This has been done in Europe for about 10 years, but was only approved here about 2 years ago.
The surgeon resurfaces the ball and the socket, and then caps each side with cobalt/chrome.

Resurfacing is a better choice for me than total hip replacement because it leaves enough bone in case I need a replacement later on, and there's less chance of dislocation. It's also better for active people - not as fragile as a replacement joint.
So, I'm going into the hospital at the end of September, and will be in rehab mode for a few weeks after.

The best news is my doctor says I should be back on skis by January!

 

[Jilly]

Wow, that procedure sounds so neat and good for you. Good luck, take care, heal and keep in touch!

 

[Severine]

Very cool that you qualify for this new procedure! Take care of yourself!!! Before you know it, you'll be back on the slopes! :D

 

[tradygirl]

Although it sucks that you're going through this, it sounds like it may be a good solution. Good luck!

I've had IT band issues (and knee pain) in my left knee for quite a while, and I sometimes get hip pain in that same leg. I may want to pay more attention to this...

 

[ski diva]

Great that there's another option for hip replacement! Keep us posted on your progress.

And great that you won't miss skiing this year!!!!

 

[cyn]

Thanks, everybody for your support. It means a lot, believe me.

I am counting on being back on skis by January if all goes well, but I won't be charging down any blacks for a while - at least my doc has ordered me not to.So I'll take it easy, and be grateful I'm out there.

What I am looking forward to the most is just being able to walk without pain. I really miss hiking and long rambles with my dog.

 

[SnowHot]

Wow, makes me count my blessings. Cyn, we'll keep the positive vibes coming your way, you keep taking care of yourself!
Hope to see you on the slopes!

 

[Gloria]

I have heard great things about hip resurfacing. We have a huge equestrian community around here and alot of horse people have been able to get back in the saddle literally after this procedure. Many of these folks had not been able to ride for years prior to the surgery and even their gaits were severely compromised. So although surgery and recovery stinks, at least you can/should expect great results when you are through it. Good luck!

 

[ski now work later]

Sorry to hear about your health problems Cyn, but I'm glad you're getting good medical advice and that there's a good procedure available. And nice to see you back on the forum!

 

[BackCountryGirl]

Cyn: I have a friend who had this surgery and was back doing all sports within 3 months. Skiing took a bit longer only because the surgery was in the spring. It is a great procedure for younger people with osteo for the reasons you stated.

 

[cyn]

Yes, I've heard that recovery can be quick. They get you right back on your feet the day after surgery, and many people say that even though they have the pain from the operation itself, they notice right away that the hip pain is gone. Can't wait!!!

 

[num]

Like the other divas said, sorry to hear you've been having health struggles, but glad that you have a procedure that should work well for you. Best of luck, we'll keep you in our thoughts.

 

[Swamp Dog]

I'm anxious to hear how you do with this procedure as I'm in a similar predicament. I haven't had the hip looked at but it's coming some day.

What are you doing for the knees? I've had good luck with Synvisc and the other brands too.

 

[cyn]

I've had two series of injections in my knees - Hyalagan and Supartz. (like Synvisc) Both helped, but my hip is really messing everything up now and is responsible in large part for my knee pain because I'm walking funny.

Here's a link if you want to know more about the resurfacing thing:

https://www.schospital.com/orthoped...1=orthopedic&source=google&kw=hip-resurfacing

 

[overthehilldiva]

Glad to hear that there's an option for you that will keep you active. Good luck. I know I've been really helped by all the information and support I've received from all the divas!
Jane

 

[marge]

I sure hope you're up and around quickly! Doesn't sound like you'll miss too much of the season.

 

[cyn]

Hi Divas
So I just got out of the hospital this afternoon and I am now reclining on a sofa, feeling sore and grumpy.
So far the surgery seems to have been a success, and I am able to get around a bit using a walker or crutches. No driving, bending over, twisting, or other stuff, though, for several weeks.
The first 3 days following the surgery were horrible, and I am glad I only remember bits of them.
Now comes the hardest part: taking things slowly and following the instructions of my PT and OT, and lying helplessly while not being able to do things around the house, which I am NOT good at at all.
The surgeon told me that once he got in and had a look at my hip, he could only call it "a real mess" - no cartilage whatsoever and lots of fragments and spurs.
I'll keep you posted on my progress....

 

[itri]

I'm glad to hear that the surgery was a success. I hope your recovery is as quick and easy as possible!

 

[LilaBear]

Good Luck with that Cyn. Now sit still! Practice makes perfect.

 

[MaineSkiLady]

Wishing you a speedy recovery, cyn! This new procedure sounds like it has a much quicker recovery period. Hope you start to feel major improvements soon!