Episode 17: Hip Replacement Surgery - Tips for Before and after surgery

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Transcript

When I told my friends and family that I was having hip replacement surgery, I was shocked at how many of them had already had this surgery.   As we age, in particularly as we are over the age of 50 and have led very active lives, this type of surgery is becoming more common.

My experience was different from that of my friends.  I had a low level of pain for approximately 9 months until things drastically changed.  After a long dance competition where I danced for many hours, I woke to considerable pain that was constant.  

After several appointments with specialists ranging from a chiropractor to an orthopedic surgeon, we discovered that I had torn my labrum among other things in my hip joint and would require a total hip replacement.

As I awaited my surgery date, I took special care to strengthen the muscles that would be affected by the surgery and I also focused on clean, healthy eating to minimize inflammation.  Turmeric was my best friend since it helped reduce the inflammation enough so that I could comfortably sleep.

The actual surgery was relatively easy.  I was fortunate to have amazing medical care and I was up and walking very soon after surgery.     The physical therapy began immediately after surgery and continued in my house for several weeks until I was able to drive when it moved to an out-patient facility.

I am no 3 1/2 months post-surgery and I am doing well.  I have resumed all of my normal activities including exercising, dancing, and yoga.

If anyone listening has had this surgery or is awaiting surgery, please join in the conversation on my facebook page so that we can share our experiences.

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