well I am 5 weeks post op at the age of 42 years old and really not knowing whether I am doing well with my recovery. I am still using 1 crutch and having pain killers once a day but feel this is for reassurance. Feeling slightly nervy as due to return to work in a weeks time as a nanny running after 3 girls and don't feel confident walking without a crutch or even to attempt driving. Would appreciate some reassurance or advice from others that have been through the same.
How old are the girls Amanda ?
Hi Amanda
I would stop taking the painkillers and see if you have any pain, if you don't then don't take anymore unless you have
pain.
As far as going back to work and driving, I think you need to practice driving first after your consultant has given you the go ahead to do so.
I don't think you should go back to work yet either. I am 10 weeks post op and have only gone out for first time without crutch today. Your job involves you having to move quickly at times and being on your feet so I think you need to ask for a med cert for another couple of weeks and see how you feel then.
It takes time to build your stamina and your confidence again and better to take a few extra weeks now than become in pain and have a set back.
Hi Amanda your doing really well the worst part is over but i personally think going back to wrk in a week is a bit to soon to look after 3 girls i am 10 weeks post op and couldn't face going back yet I'm looking at least another 4 weeks be careful and take care
Test it. I have a very high pain threshold and so have never needed more than ibuprofen, paracetamol and codeine. I make sure to start the day with the full dose, half the codeine midday and back to normal to sleep all night. As pain lessened I get rid of the codeine and eventually paracetamol. For me ibuprofen is the miracle, but make sure to eat some food and dairy first. Eventually half and then none.
Hi there
I am 8 weeks post op (yippee!) and doing really well. I still use a crutch or stick when I got out but don't need either round the house.
Everyone is different so do listen to your body and don't overdo it. Some have pushed too hard and are paying the price.
I am 63, so much younger than you, but sounds as they are doing really well. I also found at 5 weeks post op I started to feel really bored and down. You might not get this but by week 6 I saw the consultant and I was all perky again!
I still get soreness but we've all been through a massive major op and they say can take a full year before all the muscle layers are ok.
Keep going!
Jan xx
I am 4 weeks post op, one stick and daily painkillers. Having said that, everyone is different and recovery and healing is very individual. I have learnt to listen to my body, trust my instincts and not be disappointed in myself if I have an off day.
Fortunately I don't have set time to return to work, will go when consultant suggests and I feel ready. Maybe phased return. What does your consultant say re your job and when you should go back? It does sound demanding and maybe you should see how you feel. Going back too early especially in such a demanding role could be a set back.
As so many say on this site, we have to be kind to ourselves after a major op so put yourself first and only do what you feel you can manage.
Best wishes
Barbara
I agree with the previous comments as well, you don't need a wobble to set you back.
Hi Amanda ,
I am 3 . 5 weeks post op, only only use 1 crutch if I walk a long distance, I walk up and down stairs almost like I never had an op, I moved my partners car today but haven't driven mine on the road since 9 th March although I'm quite confident I could, I have not needed any pain relief since 2 weeks post op,sleep pretty good ,
Did 10 miles on an exercise bike last night
And I'm a scaffolder who was told by my surgeon I could return to work after 6 weeks(22 April)
A tall order I think but who knows?
Good luck in your recovery,
Paul .
Hi Amanda , I am 60 so older than you but I would not have been able to your job at 6 weeks . I am 10 weeks now and still don't feel able to look after my busy one year old grand daughter .
You have to look after this hip so it lasts you , better to have a few more weeks off now than do damage and have longer off later .
Discusx it with your dr in 6 week check up .
are your employers understanding , I hope so .
good luck
mary
Sorry meant to add that I am 43.
Hi john, I have only taken paracetamol 2 and codeine 1 so I will definitely try without and see. Thank you
Hi, the girls are 2 years old and then twin girls of 5. 😃
thanks Jan, it helps talking to see how others are coping. I am definitely bored and was in tears most days as my mind was active but my body not. It feels like most days is Groundhog Day for me. Seeing my consultant next Thursday so see what he says x
I am currently two weeks post op from revision to THR. Luckily no bone grafting to pelvis, just longer stem and some rings to femur.
Hello Amanda. Think due to the nature of your job you need more time off. Regarding driving my hospital occupational therapy department advised me to check the small print of my insurance in case they require written confirmation from consultant that you are fit to drive. This came about after a patient had an accident and his insurance would not pay out due to a clause in his contract about implants and the need to notify. Worth the phone call especially as you may be driving the children. Luckily I am 66 and retired so no need to return to work or any rush to drive. Hooray for on line grocery shopping
wow I suppose very one is different on their recovery. I will see what my consultant says next week.
my employers are very understanding and thinking about having a discussion with them about coming back part time and look at the work load. Thank you for your advice x
thank you for talking about your experience, sounds like you are flying through but I suppose every one is different. Good luck and hope all continues well for you.
seeing my consultant next Thursday.
Thank you
thank you Barbara, it helps to see everyone's views and I agree I don't want to push it or take things longer to recover.