While I was able to walk with a slight limp before my total hip replacement (right side), I had a tough time getting up from chairs. So much so that I dreaded sitting down. I also stopped exercising, which is important to me as a pre-diabetic person. I was delighted when
Dr. Meisterling mentioned that my best option was to have total hip replacement. There was a root cause to my problem and there was a solution. I did not really have any anxiety over the surgery, neither before nor after. I was just looking forward to being able to move without dreading sharp pains or inability to get up in public.
The surgery went smoothly. By the evening, the Physical Therapist at the hospital took me out for a walk. My family and I found that amazing. It was with the aid of a walker, but it was still amazing. After 2 nights at the hospital, I was able to get into our van to go home due to the "training" I received at the hospital. I continued to use my walker and slowly introduced the cane. Now, 6 weeks later, I am walking without any aids. Thanks to my TCO Physical Therapist,
Andy, I have understood the importance and purpose of each exercise. And again, I am watchful of any limitations or feelings of pain, which I share with Andy. Andy then suggests things we can do to address these concerns. My walk is not 100% back to normal, but very near. For a person who just had surgery 7 weeks ago, I find it amazing. Now I can't wait to exercise so I can keep diabetes at bay.
