hi everyone.
I was due to see my consultant today for 7 week checkup, but the hospital phoned to cancel due to illness and the earliest appointment they could offer is in another 4 weeks. They weren’t helpful at all when I asked if I could speak to someone to answer some queries I had, but just told me to read the literature, so, I’m hoping to get some help from the forum. I’m pleased with my recovery, have been off painkillers for several weeks now, can walk easily without support and drove for the first time today. What I really want to do is get back to normality as soon as possible even if it means fighting through the exhaustion which seems to be fairly common among recovering patients. I’m pretty sure it’s okay to go swimming, but any suggestions on how I get dressed if I’m still not allowed to bend (winter here, so tights or trousers essential). I really don’t fancy carting my grabber into the changing room! Perhaps it’s okay to break the 90 degree rule now? I think it wouldn’t be wise to return to my aerobics class, but am I allowed to get down to floor level to do pilates? Any advice you’ve been given will be much appreciated. Thanks, Yvonne
HI YVONNE SADLY I HAVE NO ADVICE BECAUSE I AN ONLY 5 WEEKS POST OP. REALLY ENCOURAGING TO HEAR HOW WELL YOU ARE DOING X
Congratulations on your new hip and off to mobility. dont over do or you can have set backs not worth it cant really rush the healing process. stay in the easy does it walking mode and exercises for now . everyone heals in their own time. be patient and be sure to wait to have a check up with doctor before you decide to make these decisions. a few more weeks wait really is a good thing. the bone needs to grow enough on the new implant to secure it into place. read all instructions given and read up on more info related to thr and more info on youtube and many helpful suggestions for water therapy in a heated indoor pool. one day at a time . take it slow your very new in recovery your body is worth the time it takes to heal for many more years of use.
Hi Yvonne,
I can tell you are eager to get back to ‘normal’ but, it is best to remember the precautions mine were twelve weeks. I started using my elliptical walker at ten weeks and returned to pilates at 5.5 months. I personally think it is best to walk, walk and walk initially, risking dislocation was too scary to contemplate. Time really is a healer and the inside needs to heal not just the outside. You sound like you are coming on great, congratulations. 
Hello Yvonne
I also received a similar letter today, which i thought was very confusing? My appointment on the 29th of January has been canceled which is a follow up from my hip replacement from the 3rd December, about 7 weeks ago…the thing is I have an appointment for the 6th February for a pre op assessment, and appointment on 18th February for admission to have my second hip replacement, I was hoping to discuss my second hip operation on the 29th January, and also wanted to make sure my recent hip replacement was successful? as I do have quite a bit of discomfort at night, I was hoping to get some reassurance on my first hip surgery before having the second one, being so close together is a bit daunting to say the least! But relieved to get it over if this is what my specialist thinks is best?
I called the hospital today and like you got very little help with regard to getting an appointment before my pre-op assessment, I am told my specialist is on call on 29th and has no appointments available until 24th February! almost another month on from original appointment, it looks as if I might be having a review on my first hip replacement after I have had second hip replacement! which doesnt make any sense to me? However I have emailed my specialist secretary and explained my situation, I have asked a few questions so hopefully I will hear back from them soon? Like you I want advice on exercises to strengthen my right hip, I am told I cant bend down, which makes it very difficult as I wear an ankle support for a dropped foot, I have lots of questions but cant get any answers, unless I hear anything from my specialists secretary, Sorry I cant be of any help best of luck but please dont take any risks on doing too much too soon take care Cyndey
Hi Yvonne - must be very disappointing to have your follow-up canceled. As far as your questions, I would really err on the side of caution and stay conservative as far as physical activities go. I was advised not to do more than a 90 degree bend for 6 months. I would not go swimming until I get the go ahead. You are tired because you’re recovering from major surgery. For what it’s worth, I think you should listen to your tired body and rest when tired. You’ll have plenty of time in the future to get back to your normal activities and you would never forgive yourself if you did something to set you back.
Good luck,
Georgette
It is early to break the 90 degree rule - see the graph
This makes it very clear. Thank you.
Thank you. When there is no longer any pain the temptation to do too much is great!
I’m guessing you haven’t seen my website then (the graph is there).
There is a lot of other information on this website.
The address of my website is in my personal info here …
Patient Communities - Our community of patients, carers, and health-conscious individuals is here to help.
and at the bottom of the moderator’s “useful resources” page at
THR - Useful Resources - Bones, joints and muscles - Patient Communities
Best wishes
Graham - ¯_(ツ)_/¯
I think your question and the thread from it may have answered my question 're long term or not of 90 degree etc. thx for that everyone. feel a bit more positive abt long term issues.
thx everyone