Posted by Holly on December 06, 2003 at 09:50:05:
In Reply to: Hip Replacement is last resort. posted by Holly on November 27, 2003 at 08:00:51:
: I am 23 and got Legg Perthes when I was 11 years old. My cousin also had it when he was 4. His hip is now fine and he is never in any pain. Me on the other hand is a diferent story. I was given 2 surgery's where they put a plate in my hip. Then the following summer I moved and my new Dr removed the plate and put me in the bilateral casts. Unfortunately the bone was already hardened and it was no help. So, for the last 11 years I have been living with constant hip pain. Finally 7 days ago I recieved a total hip replacement. I am hoping for a 15-20 pain free years. Something I cant even remember. I am having difficulties because my old hip was seized up and did not bend so now I have to work on getting the surrounding muscles to work again. I am thinking positive though and hope that this will be the end of dealing with the effects of this crippling disease.
Just want to let people know that I am in Alberta, Canada. For the woman who's son wishes for a total hip replacement I wish you 2 the best of luck. Keep looking for a Dr who will do it. It has only been 2 weeks since my surgery and I already feel like a new woman. The Surgeon wasn't thrilled about doing it on me when I was so young but he respected that I chose my quality of life now rather than years down the road. They can usually do 2-3 replacements that last 15-20 years each. I know I made the right decision and I hope that you can find someone who will give you that choice. :)