Just got the ball rolling - have I done the right thing?

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MerryChapman
MerryChapman Member Posts: 45
edited 22. Feb 2013, 08:25 in Living with Arthritis archive
Sorry - me again.

I went to the GP this morning as I've used all the painkillers. As it was my proper GP, I mentioned that I'd like to see the consultant again because I've been going downhill for around six months. Apparently the consultant had written to the GP that I was only to be referred back if I was ready in myself for a hip replacement. I've said yes. Hubby says (without hesitation) that I've done the right thing but I'm really scared as to what I'm getting myself into. I've managed hip pain pretty much by myself since I was around 20. Have I done the right thing? I know that some of the people here have joint replacements at a relatively young age - how did you find it? Xxxx

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  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,716
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
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    Don’t panic :) You’ve not jumped onto some moving treadmill, Merry. You can still get off at any time.

    But why would you want to get off? THRs are a very common, very safe op. I have two and haven’t regretted a moment of them. I also had two TKRs aged 35 and they were the best two decisions of my arthritic life. One of the latter has since been replaced (It was 27 yrs old by then) and the new one, too, is brilliant.

    My advice is go for it. Every time.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • lizzy100
    lizzy100 Member Posts: 235
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
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    i know someone who had hip problems at birth, and they were told they couldnt have a hip replacement till they were 40. they dont seem to want to do it till then.
    im sure u know its a major op and last resort, but only you know how much pain your in, and they must think you need it to offer it to you.
  • tkachev
    tkachev Member Posts: 8,332
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
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    I was 46 when I had my THR. I was terrified to admit that it needed replacing as the whole operation scared me. However for me it was a great result and I am glad I had it done as it did stop that awful 'dagger' pain and I could take bigger strides so walking was easier.

    But I knew if I wanted to cancel the operation, even on the day, I could.

    Elizabeth
    Never be bullied into silence.
    Never allow yourself to be made a victim.
    Accept no ones definition of your life

    Define yourself........

    Harvey Fierstein
  • MerryChapman
    MerryChapman Member Posts: 45
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
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    Sticky, you're right, that's exactly how it feels.

    I'm fully aware that it's a last resort and as much as that frightens me, the speed that I'm going downhill is equally scary. I can't get through the day without taking strong cocos every few hours and I'm having to use my stick in the house as well as outside. I struggled to get round the s**ding supermarket yesterday. I have a couple of good days, then a spectacularly bad day, then the "norm" becomes worse.

    As much as I want to put it off, the kids need me to be at my healthiest now not in 20-30 years time.

    It'll take time before I get there, I need to see the local consultant and then the specialist before I get anywhere near the waiting list.

    I could do with some cheering up - anyone know any good jokes? Xxx
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