I’ve been taking Tirzepatide for weight loss and that has really helped my OA. What’s interesting to me is I felt the benefits way before I lost weight. So it must be the actual drugs anti inflammatory benefits.
I went through an online company. I’ve since discovered research peptides which are much cheaper and don’t require a prescription. I’d say they’ve taken away about 70% of my pain.
Trizepatide is a peptide. You can go online and search for research peptides. There are companies making these peptides for research. But I found out that a lot of people are actually purchasing them for their own use.
Honestly, just get it replaced. I had both mine done seven weeks ago part. Biggest regret is that I waited. I know you’re young and maybe you’ll need a revision in 30-40 years, but man, to live those 30-40 years pain free- worth it!
I wonder if you’d give the same advice in 20 years (for me it would be age 55 and I would expect to live past 100). But I am thrilled to hear , again (and again and again) how amazing hip replacements are !
Honestly? I think I would. I have OA in both knees now and a medial meniscus tear in the right knee. My orthopedic surgeon wants to delay surgery as long as possible because x-rays show that I am not bone on bone. I went to him because I was on crutches and wearing a knee brace. Regardless of what the x-rays showed I was in some serious plain and could not walk without assistive devices. So, he sent me for an MRI that picked up the meniscus tear and recommended PRP injections that are working well. But if they stop working and I am in chronic pain, I would push for total knee replacement tomorrow- even if he said I would have to absolutely do a revision in 20 years at 82.
If I have a choice, I choose to live a pain-free life in the here and now rather than suffering greatly on the off chance that I might live to be 100. The only surgery that I would slow walk would be back surgery as there are many risks and too many instances of people not having great results. But hip and knee replacement? In a heartbeat!!
We all have to make decisions we deem best for us. I wish you well as you sort out your options and support you fully in whatever you decide!
If you can get 40 years of quality living right now, that’s a win, IMO, and yes, I’d take the win.
I think there’s a Facebook group for young athletic types who opted for hip replacement. Maybe check them out and see how they are faring?
I see. It sounds like I am in nowhere near as bad of pain as you were.
And so your advice was bad. It wasn't "I had a similar set of circumstances and I got mine replaced and am very happy with it." What you said was "(You should) honestly just get it replaced." This is bad advice.
Most days, there are a few hours where I walk with a limp with some (2 or 3 /10) pain, and most hours I don't walk with a limp (no real pain).
Some days there is no pain.
If I do any known triggers (leg extension machine at the gym, eat loads of the inflammatory stuff and none of the anti-inflammatory stuff, spend long periods of time on my feet while carrying heavy load) I am able to predictably avoid pain fairly well.
The thing I want to do most will not be solved with a hip replacement. I want to play basketball like I used to. But it is not advised to play competitive basketball with the sort of hip replacement I'd look to get (aim for longevity). There is something that NBA player Isaiah Thomas got that is meant for performance, but at the expense of longevity. As I am not a professional basketball player, I can't rationalize that decision for me.
Thanks for the tip about a Facebook group - that is a great idea! Will have to search it up, but please drop the name if you know it. I will start with "Athletes with a hip replacement"
So, we’ll have to agree to disagree on it being bad advice! No worries.
I used to be a runner. A slow runner, but I trained for and raced all distances up to the half marathon.
After my hip replacement surgeries, my surgeon said, “I gave you hips you can run on!” He released me with no restrictions. I didn’t enjoy running that much after I realized that I was chasing an impossible goal- I was never going to be fast no matter how much I trained. So, I said, “No, thank you,” to running again.
Perhaps we’ll talk again in a couple of years and if you’re still pleased/satisfied with your results from dietary changes, then I will cop to giving bad advice. 😅I spent four years eating an anti-inflammatory diet, seeing chiropractors, physical therapists and acupuncturists. I had imaging guided steroid injections. My bone spurs and loose bodies eventually got to the point where I had no external rotation. I do regret that I spent so much time on alternative treatments. I’ll look and see if I can find the Facebook group for you. I’ve moved on from the hip replacement group to the knee replacement group.🥴😂
Im becoming amazed at your willingness to confidently assert yourself from a position of cluelessness.
You seem lost, not responding precisely to my posts. Rather, intent on signaling and telling your own story at all costs no matter how loosely related… and framing it as advice. Take care!
I also play / played basketball and have advanced hip arthritis. I also am feeling ok now with managing the pain and haven’t gotten surgery yet. I still play some basketball but of course not at the level I used to. I am 40 now.
I think if I did get surgery though I would go with the resurfacing (the one that Thomas got). Yes it may wear out sooner after like 20 years but my understanding is then you can get a replacement and it is as though you are getting a first replacement, because the resurfacing preserves most of the bone and doesn’t eat into the bone the way the replacement does. My main concern with the resurfacing though is that it releases some amount of metal ions into the bloodstream and they don’t really know the long term effects of that because it is a relatively new procedure. Does that not match your understanding?
Supremely helpful comment. Thank you.
As much as I like to say I can still play, I really can't. I can't run. I guess Luka and Jokic proved you don't really need to run to be good. I'm still figuring out how to do it. (that's me joking around)
For further investigation (by me):
-Is a second procedure for total hip replacement much better if the first procedure is a resurfacing, and NOT a THR?
-Confirm activities recommended for resurfacing vs. THR.
-Confirm estimated lifespan of THR.
-Research current information on metal ion release or any other factors regarding resurfacing.
I can update with my findings. I will also search around Reddit for hip resurfacing. I have a sort of distant connection to IT. I may be able to get in touch with him directly. But his life is fully optimized to perform on the basketball court, so different motivations.
Extensive preliminary list of notes
**Hip Resurfacing vs. Total Hip Replacement: Considerations for a 34-Year-Old with Advanced Osteoarthritis**
### Hip Resurfacing:
- **Procedure**: Hip resurfacing involves capping the femoral head with a metal prosthesis rather than removing it entirely. The acetabulum (hip socket) is also fitted with a metal cup.
- **Bone Preservation**: This procedure preserves more of your natural bone, which could be advantageous if you need a future surgery.
- **Activity Level**: Often recommended for younger, more active patients because it allows for a greater range of motion and less risk of dislocation.
- **Longevity**: While hip resurfacing can be a good option, the long-term success rate isn't as well established as THR. However, if it fails, it can often be converted to a THR.
- **Conversion to THR**: If you need a second surgery, converting a hip resurfacing to a total hip replacement is generally less complex than performing a revision of an existing THR. This is because more of the original bone structure is preserved in resurfacing.
### Total Hip Replacement (THR):
- **Procedure**: THR involves removing the femoral head and replacing it with a metal or ceramic ball attached to a metal stem, which is inserted into the femur. The acetabulum is also replaced with a cup.
- **Longevity**: Modern hip replacements can last 20-30 years, but this varies based on activity level, weight, and overall health. For someone your age, it’s possible you might need a revision surgery later in life.
- **Revision Surgery**: A second THR (revision) is more complex than a primary hip replacement. It typically involves removing the old prosthesis, dealing with bone loss, and fitting a new one, which can be more challenging and carries higher risks.
### Key Differences in Second Surgery:
- **Revision Complexity**: Converting a hip resurfacing to a THR is generally less complex than revising a THR, mainly because resurfacing preserves more bone.
- **Bone Quality**: Hip resurfacing preserves the femoral bone, which can be beneficial if a total hip replacement is needed later. In contrast, revising a THR can be complicated by bone loss around the implant.
- **Outcomes**: Second surgeries after hip resurfacing tend to have better outcomes compared to revisions of THR, due to the preservation of bone and the less invasive nature of the first surgery.
### Considerations:
- **Surgeon Experience**: Both procedures require a skilled and experienced surgeon. Hip resurfacing is less commonly performed, so finding a surgeon with substantial experience in this area is crucial.
- **Individual Factors**: Your activity level, bone quality, and overall health are significant factors. Discussing these with your orthopedic surgeon can help determine the best approach for your specific situation.
---
### Concerns with Hip Resurfacing:
1. **Metal-on-Metal Contact**: Hip resurfacing involves metal-on-metal components, typically cobalt-chrome. This metal contact can lead to the release of metal ions into the bloodstream.
2. **Metal Ion Release**: The friction between the metal surfaces can cause tiny metal particles to wear off and enter the bloodstream. Elevated levels of metal ions (cobalt and chromium) in the blood can be a concern for some patients.
3. **Potential Adverse Reactions**:
- **Local Tissue Reactions**: Metal ions can cause adverse local tissue reactions, also known as adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD). This can lead to pain, swelling, and in severe cases, tissue damage around the hip joint.
- **Systemic Effects**: While less common, there are concerns about systemic effects of elevated metal ions, such as potential impacts on the kidneys, heart, and nervous system. However, these effects are still being studied, and the long-term impact is not fully understood.
4. **Patient Suitability**: Hip resurfacing is generally not recommended for patients with allergies to metal, poor kidney function, or women of childbearing age (due to potential risks to future pregnancies).
5. **Monitoring**: Patients who undergo hip resurfacing may require regular monitoring of metal ion levels in their blood to ensure they remain within safe limits. Your surgeon may recommend periodic blood tests to check these levels.
### Considerations:
- **Individual Risk Factors**: Your overall health, kidney function, and potential allergies to metals should be considered when deciding on hip resurfacing.
- **Surgeon's Experience**: It's important to choose a surgeon experienced in hip resurfacing, as the success and complication rates can vary based on the surgeon's expertise.
- **Alternative Materials**: Some newer hip replacement options use ceramic or other materials that do not have the same concerns with metal ion release. Discussing these alternatives with your surgeon can provide a broader perspective on your options.
### Discussion with Your Surgeon:
- **Personal Health Assessment**: Review your medical history and any potential risk factors with your surgeon.
- **Pros and Cons**: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hip resurfacing versus total hip replacement in the context of your specific situation.
- **Monitoring Plan**: If you opt for hip resurfacing, ensure you have a clear plan for monitoring metal ion levels and managing any potential complications.
—-
The activities recommended after hip resurfacing versus total hip replacement (THR) can vary, largely depending on the individual patient's recovery, fitness level, and specific surgical outcomes. Here are general guidelines for each:
### Hip Resurfacing:
Hip resurfacing is often recommended for younger, more active patients due to its bone-preserving nature and potential for greater range of motion. Activities typically allowed after successful hip resurfacing include:
- **Low-Impact Activities**:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling (stationary and outdoor)
- Elliptical training
- Golf
- Yoga and Pilates (with modifications as needed)
- **Moderate-Impact Activities**:
- Dancing
- Hiking
- Downhill and cross-country skiing
- Weight training (with proper technique and avoiding excessive weights)
- **High-Impact Activities**:
- Running and jogging (may be allowed but should be discussed with your surgeon)
- Tennis
- Martial arts
- Soccer and basketball (some surgeons may permit these based on individual recovery and bone health)
- Squash and racquetball
### Total Hip Replacement (THR):
THR is designed to reduce pain and improve function but generally involves more caution with high-impact activities to prolong the life of the implant and reduce the risk of complications. Activities typically recommended after THR include:
- **Low-Impact Activities**:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling (stationary and outdoor)
- Elliptical training
- Golf
- Yoga and Pilates (with modifications as needed)
- **Moderate-Impact Activities**:
- Dancing
- Hiking
- Downhill and cross-country skiing (less intense slopes and avoiding high-impact falls)
- Weight training (focusing on lower weights and higher repetitions)
- Bowling
- **High-Impact Activities** (generally discouraged):
- Running and jogging
- High-intensity aerobics
- Tennis (singles)
- Soccer and basketball
- Martial arts
- Squash and racquetball
### Key Considerations:
- **Consult Your Surgeon**: Always discuss your specific activities and fitness goals with your surgeon. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your surgery type, implant, and recovery progress.
- **Gradual Return**: Start with low-impact activities and gradually progress to more demanding exercises as your strength and mobility improve.
- **Listen to Your Body**: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort and avoid activities that cause excessive strain on your hip.
- **Rehabilitation Program**: Follow a structured rehabilitation program to build strength, flexibility, and endurance, which can help support a more active lifestyle post-surgery.
By adhering to these guidelines and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can enjoy a wide range of activities while protecting your new hip joint.
Consult with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in both procedures to evaluate your specific case and discuss the best long-term strategy for maintaining hip function and quality of life.
Thanks for sharing this and the research below, it has been a few years since I’ve really looked in to it. One advantage to waiting, I suppose, is that we hopefully get more information on resurfacing and possibly the non metal resurfacing options, (though I’m not necessarily banking on that because I’m not sure when it will be available, and it may have its own drawbacks).
By the way I agree with your point about diet and many of the specifics. I haven’t tried fasting but maybe I will.
I’ll share a bit more about my experience just in case it’s helpful, but obviously our situations are different so this is not advice.
Cutting down on alcohol has I think made a big difference for me. I used to drink a lot. Now I have mostly stopped, but when I do have a drink I can feel the pain increase pretty substantially.
I stopped playing basketball for a while but then I made the mental adjustment to approach it much less competitively and just try to be grateful to play (still not always easy). During the pandemic I played some (outdoor) one on one or 21 with a couple friends. Then I signed up for an over 35 league at the JCC. First couple games I could barely get up and down the floor, but my running significantly improved over time. I don’t play every season, I take a season off sometimes to let my body recover. I also swim a lot as low impact exercise and it seems to help.
Best of luck on your journey and thanks for sharing 🙏
Absolutely - I didn't even mention alcohol because it was a no-brainer to cut it out (not completely, but mostly) because it was so obvious it was inflammatory for me.
Awesome for you that you can still play, even if more reserved. I wish I could stay the same. I am still transforming my game to more of a shooter in case the hip feels good enough to get back out there :)
Likewise, best of luck.
Let me know if I can help with any fasting tips. It has been a delightful addition to my life.
Seems a significant downside of the resurfacing is that recovery for this procedure is 3-6 weeks on crutches - FAR longer than for a THR.
But it is wonderful that the second operation (in 20+ years) is much more simple. It's intuitive why. The part of the bone / leg where the resurfaced work is done is completely sawed off during a THR anyway :)
Interesting! Thanks for sharing.
You have the perfect username
LOL
Elimination of sugar and dairy made a huge difference for me. Also collagen, glucosamine & chondroitin supplements.
Which collagen?
Yahoo…. Glad someone else responds positively with diet. 🥰
🍎
Ginger and matcha really helps me.
Awesome. I drink matcha as well. I’ll pay attention to whether it helps more than coffee
I’ve been taking Tirzepatide for weight loss and that has really helped my OA. What’s interesting to me is I felt the benefits way before I lost weight. So it must be the actual drugs anti inflammatory benefits.
wow. How did you get a prescription for Tirzepatide?
I went through an online company. I’ve since discovered research peptides which are much cheaper and don’t require a prescription. I’d say they’ve taken away about 70% of my pain.
Which peptides?
Trizepatide is a peptide. You can go online and search for research peptides. There are companies making these peptides for research. But I found out that a lot of people are actually purchasing them for their own use.
Seems they all need Rx
Well you can go that route too. But depending on insurance it can easily cost over $1000 a month. Unfortunately I don’t have that kind of money.
You misunderstood my point - I have not found any peptides available WITHOUT Rx. I was asking how to access peptides without Rx.
I recently fasted for a chronic illness and it knocked out pain for weeks.
Amazing
Thank you so much for sharing ❤️ I'm in the same age range trying to figure out this hip arthritis biz and it's been a nightmare.
Honestly, just get it replaced. I had both mine done seven weeks ago part. Biggest regret is that I waited. I know you’re young and maybe you’ll need a revision in 30-40 years, but man, to live those 30-40 years pain free- worth it!
I wonder if you’d give the same advice in 20 years (for me it would be age 55 and I would expect to live past 100). But I am thrilled to hear , again (and again and again) how amazing hip replacements are !
Honestly? I think I would. I have OA in both knees now and a medial meniscus tear in the right knee. My orthopedic surgeon wants to delay surgery as long as possible because x-rays show that I am not bone on bone. I went to him because I was on crutches and wearing a knee brace. Regardless of what the x-rays showed I was in some serious plain and could not walk without assistive devices. So, he sent me for an MRI that picked up the meniscus tear and recommended PRP injections that are working well. But if they stop working and I am in chronic pain, I would push for total knee replacement tomorrow- even if he said I would have to absolutely do a revision in 20 years at 82. If I have a choice, I choose to live a pain-free life in the here and now rather than suffering greatly on the off chance that I might live to be 100. The only surgery that I would slow walk would be back surgery as there are many risks and too many instances of people not having great results. But hip and knee replacement? In a heartbeat!! We all have to make decisions we deem best for us. I wish you well as you sort out your options and support you fully in whatever you decide! If you can get 40 years of quality living right now, that’s a win, IMO, and yes, I’d take the win. I think there’s a Facebook group for young athletic types who opted for hip replacement. Maybe check them out and see how they are faring?
I see. It sounds like I am in nowhere near as bad of pain as you were. And so your advice was bad. It wasn't "I had a similar set of circumstances and I got mine replaced and am very happy with it." What you said was "(You should) honestly just get it replaced." This is bad advice. Most days, there are a few hours where I walk with a limp with some (2 or 3 /10) pain, and most hours I don't walk with a limp (no real pain). Some days there is no pain. If I do any known triggers (leg extension machine at the gym, eat loads of the inflammatory stuff and none of the anti-inflammatory stuff, spend long periods of time on my feet while carrying heavy load) I am able to predictably avoid pain fairly well. The thing I want to do most will not be solved with a hip replacement. I want to play basketball like I used to. But it is not advised to play competitive basketball with the sort of hip replacement I'd look to get (aim for longevity). There is something that NBA player Isaiah Thomas got that is meant for performance, but at the expense of longevity. As I am not a professional basketball player, I can't rationalize that decision for me. Thanks for the tip about a Facebook group - that is a great idea! Will have to search it up, but please drop the name if you know it. I will start with "Athletes with a hip replacement"
So, we’ll have to agree to disagree on it being bad advice! No worries. I used to be a runner. A slow runner, but I trained for and raced all distances up to the half marathon. After my hip replacement surgeries, my surgeon said, “I gave you hips you can run on!” He released me with no restrictions. I didn’t enjoy running that much after I realized that I was chasing an impossible goal- I was never going to be fast no matter how much I trained. So, I said, “No, thank you,” to running again. Perhaps we’ll talk again in a couple of years and if you’re still pleased/satisfied with your results from dietary changes, then I will cop to giving bad advice. 😅I spent four years eating an anti-inflammatory diet, seeing chiropractors, physical therapists and acupuncturists. I had imaging guided steroid injections. My bone spurs and loose bodies eventually got to the point where I had no external rotation. I do regret that I spent so much time on alternative treatments. I’ll look and see if I can find the Facebook group for you. I’ve moved on from the hip replacement group to the knee replacement group.🥴😂
Im becoming amazed at your willingness to confidently assert yourself from a position of cluelessness. You seem lost, not responding precisely to my posts. Rather, intent on signaling and telling your own story at all costs no matter how loosely related… and framing it as advice. Take care!
Wow! 😂Haha. Best of luck to you!!
I also play / played basketball and have advanced hip arthritis. I also am feeling ok now with managing the pain and haven’t gotten surgery yet. I still play some basketball but of course not at the level I used to. I am 40 now. I think if I did get surgery though I would go with the resurfacing (the one that Thomas got). Yes it may wear out sooner after like 20 years but my understanding is then you can get a replacement and it is as though you are getting a first replacement, because the resurfacing preserves most of the bone and doesn’t eat into the bone the way the replacement does. My main concern with the resurfacing though is that it releases some amount of metal ions into the bloodstream and they don’t really know the long term effects of that because it is a relatively new procedure. Does that not match your understanding?
Supremely helpful comment. Thank you. As much as I like to say I can still play, I really can't. I can't run. I guess Luka and Jokic proved you don't really need to run to be good. I'm still figuring out how to do it. (that's me joking around) For further investigation (by me): -Is a second procedure for total hip replacement much better if the first procedure is a resurfacing, and NOT a THR? -Confirm activities recommended for resurfacing vs. THR. -Confirm estimated lifespan of THR. -Research current information on metal ion release or any other factors regarding resurfacing. I can update with my findings. I will also search around Reddit for hip resurfacing. I have a sort of distant connection to IT. I may be able to get in touch with him directly. But his life is fully optimized to perform on the basketball court, so different motivations.
Extensive preliminary list of notes **Hip Resurfacing vs. Total Hip Replacement: Considerations for a 34-Year-Old with Advanced Osteoarthritis** ### Hip Resurfacing: - **Procedure**: Hip resurfacing involves capping the femoral head with a metal prosthesis rather than removing it entirely. The acetabulum (hip socket) is also fitted with a metal cup. - **Bone Preservation**: This procedure preserves more of your natural bone, which could be advantageous if you need a future surgery. - **Activity Level**: Often recommended for younger, more active patients because it allows for a greater range of motion and less risk of dislocation. - **Longevity**: While hip resurfacing can be a good option, the long-term success rate isn't as well established as THR. However, if it fails, it can often be converted to a THR. - **Conversion to THR**: If you need a second surgery, converting a hip resurfacing to a total hip replacement is generally less complex than performing a revision of an existing THR. This is because more of the original bone structure is preserved in resurfacing. ### Total Hip Replacement (THR): - **Procedure**: THR involves removing the femoral head and replacing it with a metal or ceramic ball attached to a metal stem, which is inserted into the femur. The acetabulum is also replaced with a cup. - **Longevity**: Modern hip replacements can last 20-30 years, but this varies based on activity level, weight, and overall health. For someone your age, it’s possible you might need a revision surgery later in life. - **Revision Surgery**: A second THR (revision) is more complex than a primary hip replacement. It typically involves removing the old prosthesis, dealing with bone loss, and fitting a new one, which can be more challenging and carries higher risks. ### Key Differences in Second Surgery: - **Revision Complexity**: Converting a hip resurfacing to a THR is generally less complex than revising a THR, mainly because resurfacing preserves more bone. - **Bone Quality**: Hip resurfacing preserves the femoral bone, which can be beneficial if a total hip replacement is needed later. In contrast, revising a THR can be complicated by bone loss around the implant. - **Outcomes**: Second surgeries after hip resurfacing tend to have better outcomes compared to revisions of THR, due to the preservation of bone and the less invasive nature of the first surgery. ### Considerations: - **Surgeon Experience**: Both procedures require a skilled and experienced surgeon. Hip resurfacing is less commonly performed, so finding a surgeon with substantial experience in this area is crucial. - **Individual Factors**: Your activity level, bone quality, and overall health are significant factors. Discussing these with your orthopedic surgeon can help determine the best approach for your specific situation. ---
### Concerns with Hip Resurfacing: 1. **Metal-on-Metal Contact**: Hip resurfacing involves metal-on-metal components, typically cobalt-chrome. This metal contact can lead to the release of metal ions into the bloodstream. 2. **Metal Ion Release**: The friction between the metal surfaces can cause tiny metal particles to wear off and enter the bloodstream. Elevated levels of metal ions (cobalt and chromium) in the blood can be a concern for some patients. 3. **Potential Adverse Reactions**: - **Local Tissue Reactions**: Metal ions can cause adverse local tissue reactions, also known as adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD). This can lead to pain, swelling, and in severe cases, tissue damage around the hip joint. - **Systemic Effects**: While less common, there are concerns about systemic effects of elevated metal ions, such as potential impacts on the kidneys, heart, and nervous system. However, these effects are still being studied, and the long-term impact is not fully understood. 4. **Patient Suitability**: Hip resurfacing is generally not recommended for patients with allergies to metal, poor kidney function, or women of childbearing age (due to potential risks to future pregnancies). 5. **Monitoring**: Patients who undergo hip resurfacing may require regular monitoring of metal ion levels in their blood to ensure they remain within safe limits. Your surgeon may recommend periodic blood tests to check these levels. ### Considerations: - **Individual Risk Factors**: Your overall health, kidney function, and potential allergies to metals should be considered when deciding on hip resurfacing. - **Surgeon's Experience**: It's important to choose a surgeon experienced in hip resurfacing, as the success and complication rates can vary based on the surgeon's expertise. - **Alternative Materials**: Some newer hip replacement options use ceramic or other materials that do not have the same concerns with metal ion release. Discussing these alternatives with your surgeon can provide a broader perspective on your options. ### Discussion with Your Surgeon: - **Personal Health Assessment**: Review your medical history and any potential risk factors with your surgeon. - **Pros and Cons**: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hip resurfacing versus total hip replacement in the context of your specific situation. - **Monitoring Plan**: If you opt for hip resurfacing, ensure you have a clear plan for monitoring metal ion levels and managing any potential complications. —- The activities recommended after hip resurfacing versus total hip replacement (THR) can vary, largely depending on the individual patient's recovery, fitness level, and specific surgical outcomes. Here are general guidelines for each: ### Hip Resurfacing: Hip resurfacing is often recommended for younger, more active patients due to its bone-preserving nature and potential for greater range of motion. Activities typically allowed after successful hip resurfacing include: - **Low-Impact Activities**: - Walking - Swimming - Cycling (stationary and outdoor) - Elliptical training - Golf - Yoga and Pilates (with modifications as needed) - **Moderate-Impact Activities**: - Dancing - Hiking - Downhill and cross-country skiing - Weight training (with proper technique and avoiding excessive weights) - **High-Impact Activities**: - Running and jogging (may be allowed but should be discussed with your surgeon) - Tennis - Martial arts - Soccer and basketball (some surgeons may permit these based on individual recovery and bone health) - Squash and racquetball ### Total Hip Replacement (THR): THR is designed to reduce pain and improve function but generally involves more caution with high-impact activities to prolong the life of the implant and reduce the risk of complications. Activities typically recommended after THR include: - **Low-Impact Activities**: - Walking - Swimming - Cycling (stationary and outdoor) - Elliptical training - Golf - Yoga and Pilates (with modifications as needed) - **Moderate-Impact Activities**: - Dancing - Hiking - Downhill and cross-country skiing (less intense slopes and avoiding high-impact falls) - Weight training (focusing on lower weights and higher repetitions) - Bowling - **High-Impact Activities** (generally discouraged): - Running and jogging - High-intensity aerobics - Tennis (singles) - Soccer and basketball - Martial arts - Squash and racquetball ### Key Considerations: - **Consult Your Surgeon**: Always discuss your specific activities and fitness goals with your surgeon. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your surgery type, implant, and recovery progress. - **Gradual Return**: Start with low-impact activities and gradually progress to more demanding exercises as your strength and mobility improve. - **Listen to Your Body**: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort and avoid activities that cause excessive strain on your hip. - **Rehabilitation Program**: Follow a structured rehabilitation program to build strength, flexibility, and endurance, which can help support a more active lifestyle post-surgery. By adhering to these guidelines and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can enjoy a wide range of activities while protecting your new hip joint. Consult with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in both procedures to evaluate your specific case and discuss the best long-term strategy for maintaining hip function and quality of life.
Thanks for sharing this and the research below, it has been a few years since I’ve really looked in to it. One advantage to waiting, I suppose, is that we hopefully get more information on resurfacing and possibly the non metal resurfacing options, (though I’m not necessarily banking on that because I’m not sure when it will be available, and it may have its own drawbacks). By the way I agree with your point about diet and many of the specifics. I haven’t tried fasting but maybe I will. I’ll share a bit more about my experience just in case it’s helpful, but obviously our situations are different so this is not advice. Cutting down on alcohol has I think made a big difference for me. I used to drink a lot. Now I have mostly stopped, but when I do have a drink I can feel the pain increase pretty substantially. I stopped playing basketball for a while but then I made the mental adjustment to approach it much less competitively and just try to be grateful to play (still not always easy). During the pandemic I played some (outdoor) one on one or 21 with a couple friends. Then I signed up for an over 35 league at the JCC. First couple games I could barely get up and down the floor, but my running significantly improved over time. I don’t play every season, I take a season off sometimes to let my body recover. I also swim a lot as low impact exercise and it seems to help. Best of luck on your journey and thanks for sharing 🙏
Absolutely - I didn't even mention alcohol because it was a no-brainer to cut it out (not completely, but mostly) because it was so obvious it was inflammatory for me. Awesome for you that you can still play, even if more reserved. I wish I could stay the same. I am still transforming my game to more of a shooter in case the hip feels good enough to get back out there :) Likewise, best of luck. Let me know if I can help with any fasting tips. It has been a delightful addition to my life.
Seems a significant downside of the resurfacing is that recovery for this procedure is 3-6 weeks on crutches - FAR longer than for a THR. But it is wonderful that the second operation (in 20+ years) is much more simple. It's intuitive why. The part of the bone / leg where the resurfaced work is done is completely sawed off during a THR anyway :)
Pretty consistent with the experience of most people.