Drum roll please........Today marks the day of no more hip brace and no more need to bolster my feet together to prevent external rotation. I can now externally rotate and extend. I have tried both motions and external rotation feels quite nice, not restricted very much. Extension is another story. It is quite tight just to stand up straight and tuck my pelvis under myself. But, I can actually extend a little bit. It will be intriguing to see how much extension I have at my next PT appointment.
I get my stitches out on Monday at my family physician. I really could take out my own stitches as I've done it before (to other people), but if I take my last surgery's suture removal as any indication of how deep they place the sutures, I'd prefer somebody else induce that pain on me. I almost passed out last time. So, I figured I should have my doc do it. I needed to see him anyway as a follow-up from a previous appointment with him, so no harm in getting it all done at once.
Otherwise, the CPM in the day is much better. Although, oddly, I didn't sleep well last night despite not being strapped in the CPM. Perhaps it is the bolster? I don't know, but tonight I am just going to use the calf pumps and see how things go. My back muscles, glutes, and abductors/adductors are all quite tense this evening so I took a muscle relaxant in hopes of alleviating the tension. Plus I took a Norco simply because my right hip is throbbing and, if I have pills that will help this, why lie awake at night suffering?
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Saturday, July 7, 2012
Friday, July 6, 2012
20 Days Post Op: CPM & Insurance Changes
Today I can say that my left hip is simply the normal post op stiffness with absolutely no joint pain. The incisions with the stitches are pulling a little bit. But this will be fixed on Monday when I finally get the stitches out. 21 days with the stitches in is a bit long in my opinion, but hey, I'll listen to the doctor, he's the MAN :) My right hip is quite sore today, I feel the throbbing in the groin mostly. It's annoying but will most definitely get better when I can weight bear on the left hip. Funny how things are complicated with two bad hips. Let me rephrase that: one hip post op (which is my 'good' side but I just can't use it) and one bad hip.
I have officially converted to using the CPM during the day as I have been sleeping horribly. Horribly. I am going to do three sessions of two hours each. I am currently in this dreadful machine. It feels great on the hip joint, and I'll do anything to prevent adhesions. But man alive, words cannot describe how much I dislike sitting in this darn machine.
The final insurance policy guidelines came out today. Not impressed. I have no choice but to switch to this insurance plan as I am in medical school and an international student, but if I had a choice this is a plan I would NOT chose. It is seriously concerning given that it states that if multiple procedures are done through the same incision or in the same operation period, then they will only cover 50% of every procedure after the first procedure. I read this as that I will be responsible for 50% of everything done after the first thing done in the next hip scope. This could be problematic as I literally have no money. How will I pay for all of this? I am seriously concerned and am thinking of having a pasta dinner or some sort of fundraising to help pay for the medical bills, accommodations, etc. I really hate asking for help and try to keep my medical problems from being advertised, but I don't see any other option at this point. I've looked into online fundraising options but am leery about signing up for an online donations.
I have officially converted to using the CPM during the day as I have been sleeping horribly. Horribly. I am going to do three sessions of two hours each. I am currently in this dreadful machine. It feels great on the hip joint, and I'll do anything to prevent adhesions. But man alive, words cannot describe how much I dislike sitting in this darn machine.
The final insurance policy guidelines came out today. Not impressed. I have no choice but to switch to this insurance plan as I am in medical school and an international student, but if I had a choice this is a plan I would NOT chose. It is seriously concerning given that it states that if multiple procedures are done through the same incision or in the same operation period, then they will only cover 50% of every procedure after the first procedure. I read this as that I will be responsible for 50% of everything done after the first thing done in the next hip scope. This could be problematic as I literally have no money. How will I pay for all of this? I am seriously concerned and am thinking of having a pasta dinner or some sort of fundraising to help pay for the medical bills, accommodations, etc. I really hate asking for help and try to keep my medical problems from being advertised, but I don't see any other option at this point. I've looked into online fundraising options but am leery about signing up for an online donations.
19 Days Post Op: And the journey just got longer
I don't know if I should be relieved or just flat out disappointed. I am leaning towards the latter. I finally got a hold of the PA regarding the timing of my next surgery. When I was last in Vail, everybody was in agreement that we should do it in 6 weeks. Well, during our conversation he said that I could come to Vail, get the left hip checked out, and if they thought it was strong enough, have surgery the next day on my right. But this would be unlikely due to my extensive hip history and that it would more than likely end up that I would be told to wait 6 more weeks to get the right hip done. And that "they" advise to wait 12 weeks post-op before I do the right side. Now I couldn't tell if he was simply expressing his opinion or if they actually discussed my case with the surgeon. Either way, we decided that would couldn't run the risk of irritating the joint as adhesions tend to form ridiculously dense and quickly in me.
My heart sank. I think that I could actually be ready for surgery in a couple of weeks, but, it wouldn't be fun. Although this 10-12 week deal was the original plan before surgery, I had my hopes up that this (hopefully) last surgery would be done and over with and so I could begin my recovery. When I was speaking with the PA I could feel myself get tense. Like I didn't want to hear what he had to say next. I don't understand why Dr. P would have been so adamant about getting it done so soon and now a complete turnaround. This makes it very confusing for me as a patient. I get told one thing and then, poof, in a matter of minutes, get told another. I am not going to lie, I am disappointed. My hip journey just got that much longer. I hope this is the right thing to do. I mean, the LAST thing I want to do is mess up this left hip. I've had four surgeries on the sucker, and good grief would I curl up in a hole and die if I messed it up simply because I had surgery too soon after. But, having your hopes up and then dashed is quite unnerving and not too easy to swallow.
I had a meltdown today. Literally. I cried and cried. I know it has to be the combination of everything: drugs, lack of sleep, pain, change in plans, lack of motivation to do anything....just everything. It certainly is hard to keep going. Keep recovering every few months for years on end. Absolutely exhausting. I try to put on a happy face, suck up the pain, and live life with a smile and not complain, but one can only do that for so long. How much do I long to get my life back? To be able to finish school, to be able to stand, walk, heck, maybe even jog! I feel like my standards have fallen from when I first began my hip journey. At first I had surgery on my left and right to allow me to return to full workouts, to remain active. And now, all I want to do is walk without pain. I will never, never, never take walking for granted. I can't wait to get out of bed in the morning and not be in pain. It will come. I have an amazing surgeon working with me to help get this straightened out. Just its a long hard journey that has put my life on pause for the better part of a year.
Financially this is a strain as well. I am not currently working, paying interest on my buttload of loans from school, and now this. Since my surgery will not be before August 1st, I will be on a different insurance plan, with a new deductible, copay, and higher out-of-pocket-maximum. It sucks as it will now cost me thousands more dollars. I may hold some sort of pasta dinner or some sort of fundraiser with the help of my skating friends. This may help offset the cost. I know one can't put a price on health and I have to get this done to function, but man alive, money is tight and I need another surgery.
So as it stands: pre-op/12 week post-op check up on September 24th, 2012 with right hip scope on September 25th.
My heart sank. I think that I could actually be ready for surgery in a couple of weeks, but, it wouldn't be fun. Although this 10-12 week deal was the original plan before surgery, I had my hopes up that this (hopefully) last surgery would be done and over with and so I could begin my recovery. When I was speaking with the PA I could feel myself get tense. Like I didn't want to hear what he had to say next. I don't understand why Dr. P would have been so adamant about getting it done so soon and now a complete turnaround. This makes it very confusing for me as a patient. I get told one thing and then, poof, in a matter of minutes, get told another. I am not going to lie, I am disappointed. My hip journey just got that much longer. I hope this is the right thing to do. I mean, the LAST thing I want to do is mess up this left hip. I've had four surgeries on the sucker, and good grief would I curl up in a hole and die if I messed it up simply because I had surgery too soon after. But, having your hopes up and then dashed is quite unnerving and not too easy to swallow.
I had a meltdown today. Literally. I cried and cried. I know it has to be the combination of everything: drugs, lack of sleep, pain, change in plans, lack of motivation to do anything....just everything. It certainly is hard to keep going. Keep recovering every few months for years on end. Absolutely exhausting. I try to put on a happy face, suck up the pain, and live life with a smile and not complain, but one can only do that for so long. How much do I long to get my life back? To be able to finish school, to be able to stand, walk, heck, maybe even jog! I feel like my standards have fallen from when I first began my hip journey. At first I had surgery on my left and right to allow me to return to full workouts, to remain active. And now, all I want to do is walk without pain. I will never, never, never take walking for granted. I can't wait to get out of bed in the morning and not be in pain. It will come. I have an amazing surgeon working with me to help get this straightened out. Just its a long hard journey that has put my life on pause for the better part of a year.
Financially this is a strain as well. I am not currently working, paying interest on my buttload of loans from school, and now this. Since my surgery will not be before August 1st, I will be on a different insurance plan, with a new deductible, copay, and higher out-of-pocket-maximum. It sucks as it will now cost me thousands more dollars. I may hold some sort of pasta dinner or some sort of fundraiser with the help of my skating friends. This may help offset the cost. I know one can't put a price on health and I have to get this done to function, but man alive, money is tight and I need another surgery.
So as it stands: pre-op/12 week post-op check up on September 24th, 2012 with right hip scope on September 25th.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
18 Days Post Op
Frankly, I hate sleeping....err, rather, lying there awake staring at the ceiling listening to music....until 3:30 in the morning. After every surgery I have problems sleeping, but this is the worst, by far. It makes me crabby and annoyed at every small thing. I hate being like this. Life's too short to be like this, but, I just can't help it.
Another thing I have noticed is that I cannot stop eating. I literally have an appetite of two grown men. I usually have to eat two dinners as I won't make it through the night if I don't. I don't know what is wrong with me. I was texting with another Dr. P patient who had surgery a week or so before me and he said he has the same problem with the appetite. It's voracious! I'm gonna end up on Biggest Loser soon. When I return back to school from my medical leave I'm gonna be a two ton Tessy! Ahhhh! I seem to chalk it up to the fact that a) I'm bored and home all of the time b) I'm in a protein deficient state and this is my body telling me that I need to eat more protein. I suppose this is no reason to shove nachos, ice cream, chips, chocolate down my throat. But, I still do it anyway! I love eating so much that it may become problematic when my metabolism slows down in the future. Until then....bring on the cookies!!!!!
Another thing I have noticed is that I cannot stop eating. I literally have an appetite of two grown men. I usually have to eat two dinners as I won't make it through the night if I don't. I don't know what is wrong with me. I was texting with another Dr. P patient who had surgery a week or so before me and he said he has the same problem with the appetite. It's voracious! I'm gonna end up on Biggest Loser soon. When I return back to school from my medical leave I'm gonna be a two ton Tessy! Ahhhh! I seem to chalk it up to the fact that a) I'm bored and home all of the time b) I'm in a protein deficient state and this is my body telling me that I need to eat more protein. I suppose this is no reason to shove nachos, ice cream, chips, chocolate down my throat. But, I still do it anyway! I love eating so much that it may become problematic when my metabolism slows down in the future. Until then....bring on the cookies!!!!!
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
17 Days Post Op
Today was the first day in about two years that I have cut and painted my toe nails all by myself. Many people don't understand what an accomplishment this is, but if you've ever had a hip problem, you'll understand the magnitude of excitement this carries. Incredible. Thrilling.
My ROM was amazing and my left hip is feeling amazing. At PT today I was asking for more exercises as I feel as if I am totally able to do all of the exercises that is prescribed for my week post op. Craziness. I am so incredibly thrilled with my left hip. My PT can't believe the difference in my hip as well. It makes all the worry and difficulty getting surgery so, so worth it. Now I want my right hip done ASAP. Speaking of my right hip, I am thoroughly getting worried that I am not going to be able to schedule the surgery before my insurance changes. Like really worried. I was going to call tomorrow, but I realized that nobody would be working since it is the 4th of July. Sigh. I guess I will be making some phone calls on Thursday to both the PA and the surgery scheduling person. But, I truly need the surgery done and I hope that we can get it in in time. Rather, I should be wishing for any surgery date, but it would save me so much money. I suppose if it doesn't happen before my insurance changes, it means that it is too soon and I should wait a little bit to get it done as my left hip did just get done. Either way, it is concerning that I don't have a date since a) he books so far out b) I am struggling using my right. C'est la vie!
My ROM was amazing and my left hip is feeling amazing. At PT today I was asking for more exercises as I feel as if I am totally able to do all of the exercises that is prescribed for my week post op. Craziness. I am so incredibly thrilled with my left hip. My PT can't believe the difference in my hip as well. It makes all the worry and difficulty getting surgery so, so worth it. Now I want my right hip done ASAP. Speaking of my right hip, I am thoroughly getting worried that I am not going to be able to schedule the surgery before my insurance changes. Like really worried. I was going to call tomorrow, but I realized that nobody would be working since it is the 4th of July. Sigh. I guess I will be making some phone calls on Thursday to both the PA and the surgery scheduling person. But, I truly need the surgery done and I hope that we can get it in in time. Rather, I should be wishing for any surgery date, but it would save me so much money. I suppose if it doesn't happen before my insurance changes, it means that it is too soon and I should wait a little bit to get it done as my left hip did just get done. Either way, it is concerning that I don't have a date since a) he books so far out b) I am struggling using my right. C'est la vie!
16 Days Post Op
I forgot to post yesterday, so this is the post for July 2nd. I am attempting to log each day to keep a running tab on things.
I am feeling pretty good hip wise. A bit of muscular soreness on the left and the usual pain on the right. Nothing new on that front. I am though, having quite the difficulty sleeping. Last night I was up until 3AM simply lying there. It is problematic since I am confined to sleeping on my back and I don't normally do this. When I used the CPM for my previous surgeries it rocked me to sleep....this time, very different. I dread getting into that thing. I dread it A LOT. It's just not natural having your leg bent and rebent all night long. And I haven't mentioned this yet, but the calf pumps are HORRIBLE as well. Slightly bitter about all of these machines lately. I swear the surgeon has no idea what we go through to use all of these machines and keep up with all of these rehab exercises. I truly think that Dr. P should have his hip scoped too.....get a taste of his own medicine.
I am feeling pretty good hip wise. A bit of muscular soreness on the left and the usual pain on the right. Nothing new on that front. I am though, having quite the difficulty sleeping. Last night I was up until 3AM simply lying there. It is problematic since I am confined to sleeping on my back and I don't normally do this. When I used the CPM for my previous surgeries it rocked me to sleep....this time, very different. I dread getting into that thing. I dread it A LOT. It's just not natural having your leg bent and rebent all night long. And I haven't mentioned this yet, but the calf pumps are HORRIBLE as well. Slightly bitter about all of these machines lately. I swear the surgeon has no idea what we go through to use all of these machines and keep up with all of these rehab exercises. I truly think that Dr. P should have his hip scoped too.....get a taste of his own medicine.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
15 Days Post Op
I know that two posts in one day is a bit much, but I really am trying to keep daily updates and record how I feel each day. Not only to help me gauge my progress, but also to help me compare between the different surgeries and, perhaps, somebody will stumble across the blog and find it useful. I really don't think many people read this, but if you do, yay. I used to look at the stats for the blog, but that has proven to be inaccurate as there are those blogging troll people who set up repeated 'views' from random places like Slovakia, Russia, India, etc.
Today has not been a good day at all. My incisions feel like they explode every time I stand up and my lateral femoral cutaneous nerve is all freaked out. I believe that it was numb in the cutaneous area of this nerve prior to today and now it's waking up and giving me the pain signals that I am oh so used to. This stupid nerve is all jacked up and has been for more than a year. Pain and paresthesia-like sensations on a regular basis. For months I would think that my phone was vibrating on my leg (when I would keep my phone in either the opposite pocket or in my white coat pocket). Uncool.
Besides this nerve and incisional pain, I just don't feel well today. My right hip is throbbing and the left hip has that 'uh-hello-remember-me-I-just-had-surgery-think-of-me-too' pain that comes and goes, and is totally expected, after surgery. Thank goodness for Norco!!!!! Sometimes I forget I'm only 2 weeks out. Seems like I've been home an eternity.
Here's hoping that I get some answers tomorrow from the surgeon.
Today has not been a good day at all. My incisions feel like they explode every time I stand up and my lateral femoral cutaneous nerve is all freaked out. I believe that it was numb in the cutaneous area of this nerve prior to today and now it's waking up and giving me the pain signals that I am oh so used to. This stupid nerve is all jacked up and has been for more than a year. Pain and paresthesia-like sensations on a regular basis. For months I would think that my phone was vibrating on my leg (when I would keep my phone in either the opposite pocket or in my white coat pocket). Uncool.
Besides this nerve and incisional pain, I just don't feel well today. My right hip is throbbing and the left hip has that 'uh-hello-remember-me-I-just-had-surgery-think-of-me-too' pain that comes and goes, and is totally expected, after surgery. Thank goodness for Norco!!!!! Sometimes I forget I'm only 2 weeks out. Seems like I've been home an eternity.
Here's hoping that I get some answers tomorrow from the surgeon.
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