Update: 5+ months post op

I thought it was about time I wrote an update as it’s been nearly 3 months since my last post! Where does the time go?

Progress has been good over last few months and life is returning to normal. The biggest change is that I’m able to walk wherever I like without having to worry about my hip. I go to work on foot most days and can walk around the town for a couple of hours without having to be anxious about pain or catching. That said, it’s not perfect; I still have a very slight limp – especially when walking uphill – and I get some minor discomfort after walking for an hour or more. My sporting activities are still limited and I also have a little tightness around the anterior portal site at extension, but I’m hopeful that all of these things will gradually improve over time.

Generally speaking, I’m still conscious of my hip and how it feels with every step; partly because it feels different to my non-operated side but mostly because this 2-year episode has been so mentally consuming. It’ll take some time for me to be psychologically confident that my hip is fixed, even if physically I’m well on the way.

Progress is definitely logarithmic with any improvements taking longer now than they did in the first couple of months, but I guess that’s to be expected. To put things in perspective though, 6 months ago I could hardly walk anywhere without mild to major pain, causing considerable disruption to so many aspects of my life. I now walk around, cycle with my friends and even do a bit of salsa dancing! It’s a dramatic contrast and I can’t grumble at all. I might even return to snowboarding this winter!

I’ll post again in 2-3 months, by which time my hip will be so good I’ll probably be the world break-dancing champion or something. Ok, maybe not :-)

As one chapter in my life draws to an end, another begins: I’ve just had teeth removed (3 days ago) ready for mouthful of Radiance braces, as I’m entering the world of adult orthodontics... maybe I should start another blog?!

Have a great summer everyone,

Paul