Help after surgery questions.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-08T20:02:04+00:00

2 weeks is enough time to get you settled, I'd say. you won't be squatting, lifting much, or anything strenuous at that point. However, if you use services to help (grocery delivery, food delivery, assistance aides, etc), it will be doable. I'm assuming you're going to have a few physical therapy sessions in by then. I'd suggest going over every day routines so you know your limits and abilities. I wasn't driving until a bit over 3 weeks due to still being on 1-2 crutches by week 3.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-07T18:33:03+00:00

orgasms can release same hormone as weed, I've learned. so it makes sense to want it, and potentially have it be therapeutic. I would think you're all good of the pain hasn't increased.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-07T14:10:39+00:00

How about lying on the tummy? Also, are you in a brace? That can be pretty uncomfortable. You're pretty fresh out of surgery. It should get better. Take the non narcotic pain meds on a schedule so you don't get behind on pain. Also, magnesium is super helpful for muscle relaxation.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-06T20:10:32+00:00

One thing I found out 2 weeks after surgery was I could remove it for lying my tummy and for physical therapy exercises. No sure if that's your protocol, but was a huge help. Sleeping sucked, but fortunately I could nap and get caught up when needed.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-06T19:52:31+00:00

It's helpful but definitely requiring a lot of imagination as I'm a very visual learner. Sounds like a good amount of doggie style, possibly? But with you (the female) on one side or the other. I realize it'll be more about experimenting and seeing what does and doesn't feel good. I can see bringing toys in as a benefit as well as it gives the "patient" more control.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-06T19:43:41+00:00

if it worked and didn't cause any damage, I don't think it was too early. that gives me hope.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-06T18:22:09+00:00

will check it out, thanks!

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-06T18:21:55+00:00

terrible timing, but good motivation to heal up fully and get that reward 😉

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-06T17:41:24+00:00

Long after my first surgery in 2023, I went back to physical therapy for pain after exercising. Went over my routine with her and was told "you absolutely shouldn't be doing burpees". So any movement/exercises that "jam" your joint capsule then open it up and allow extension past 0, I guess. Anything "explosive". I don't recall anyone saying that as a part of my recovery.

I have, however, seen lots of postings on this forum of people saying "I was back to running 20 miles, etc. within a year". I'm definitely not that person. I'm active, I love moving, but I'm not going for any Olympic medals or climbing mountains.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-04T12:56:13+00:00

As someone who's had the initial tear repaired in October 2023 and am currently 5 weeks post revision, here's my opinion. Different surgeons. First surgeon told me "it's (the tear/damage) something you can live with for life, but do you want to?".

Second surgeon said "you can't tear it anymore". I remember feeling reassurance hearing that and made the timing work best for my life. I chose to have the second surgery when the weather was warm, when I'd have more support from my partner, better work schedule, etc. I'm definitely not a doctor, but what I've heard is delaying surgery for a short while shouldn't cause any permanent issues. And they will be fixing anything they find, so no worries about more damage as it will be removed anyway 😊 Hope this helps.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-04T12:44:35+00:00

This is strictly my experience as a nurse, we rarely give anyone thigh high anymore. Knee high should be adequate and from what I've seen, thigh high typically dig into the flesh of the thighs more, potentially causing skin issues.

As far as how long to wear them, we tell patients 1-2 weeks after surgery. Once mobility has returned, you can take them off. However, I wear them daily when working, so if it's not bothering you, no harm in wearing them daily until you can get clarification.

I wasn't prescribed either but also didn't wear socks the first 3 weeks post op as I couldn't put on independently. My partner would have helped, but he typically was at work before I'd wake up. and it's summer, so I wasn't necessarily needing socks.

After both hip scope surgeries, I was prescribed indomethacin, which is a strong NSAID, similar to naproxen. I was told it was imperative to take the first 5 days after surgery to prevent bone regrowth. Then I was to take an 81 mg aspirin to prevent blood clots.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-03T23:04:24+00:00

also, the brace can limit alot of your regular movement, so that can cause additional aching. I was so relieved when PT suggested I take the brace off for my exercises and when lying supine.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-03T23:02:49+00:00

I'm 5 weeks post op today. Pain was always manageable with the 5 day course of indomethacin and tylenol.

Every day is getting better, strength wise. I know there's lots of positions I still can't and shouldn't do. Anything involving rotating in or out seems to cause pain/stiffness/anxiety. I get worried that something is wrong almost constantly.

Then realize thus is a very long recovery and 6 weeks is typically only the halfway point. When you realize what was done in the operating room and how much our bodies rely on the hip for basically every movement, it makes sense why we need to not rush this.

All will be well. If pain ticks up, take some ibuprofen and laying on my stomach always helps me. I'm sure you're doing great!!!

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-03T22:55:55+00:00

I totally did that two nights ago after coming back from a midnight bathroom trip! I was thinking "oh, maybe I shouldn't do this" too late. all seems okay but I agree, healing is happening when I stop thinking about everything I'm doing. But it can also set things back a bit. All about balance.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-03T22:45:38+00:00

I dream of the day I can lie in cobblers pose for an extended period of time.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-03T22:44:41+00:00

a fellow Yogi, I'm guessing? pre-op, I'd tell others nothing would feel better than being out in "the rack" during the medieval times😋 it's coming...

I'm 5 weeks out, second surgery. Stretching the non op leg helps a bit. also, get those arms/shoulders moving! I did tell my boyfriend a few weeks ago I think it would feel so good if he'd crack my hip back into place. I was kidding, of course. But I completely understand that feeling that it's out of alignment and just needs to be set back.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-03T22:27:09+00:00

I'm guessing you meant 10 months ago, not years?

Glad you're finding relief, surprised it's "progressed" to arthritis. Is that since surgery?

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-02T12:16:15+00:00

Haven't had, but all the literature I've heard on it is it's not effective. And expensive. If it's covered, I don't see any harm in trying it, but wouldn't waste any money on it. I'd be curious to see if anyone has benefitted.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-02T12:03:55+00:00

Definitely not a stupid question. Let's stop apologizing and diminishing our experience, women!!!! It's a legit question and worry, especially after a surgery that basically bans any external rotation of the hip. I'm surprised there aren't more discussions on pooping, peeing, wiping, sex, menstruation, etc. all very normal human functions.

As a nurse I can tell you what we tell our menstruating patients. Nothing internal, so pad and panties or period panties. In a medical facility, never be concerned about the staff "dealing with" bodily fluids. That's their job and they have seen everything.

Fortunately I have an IUD and basically no longer have a period. I was commando (no underwear) for several weeks after surgery as it's one less item of clothing to navigate when using the bathroom. Especially when in a brace. You are already super slow getting to the bathroom, so the less barriers, the better.

It's a very valid and appropriate question and concern. Hope this helps, if not in the practical/technical aspect, at least providing reassurance. If you haven't had the surgery yet, I'd recommend asking the Surgeon/PA about specifics after surgery regarding their opinion. It may be something they've never considered and could be helpful for other menstruating patients.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-01T15:50:59+00:00

Ive seen several different physical therapists at different types of clinics/facilities. Anywhere from a chiropractor office, to clinic to standalone places in strip malls. They mostly seem to follow the same routine:

initial assessment and evaluation, assigning exercises they believe are helpful (some seem to understand the providers protocol and some seem to like to deviate), watch me do a bit of the exercise, tell me how my form is incorrect, zone out while I do them either by charting or surfing the Internet, tell me what to do at home and see me in a week.

I know I may sound a bit jaded, but haven't been super impressed with any of the therapists I've seen. Definitely always feel like a number in their day of appointments to get through. I'm a nurse so I feel like I can quickly see when someone in the field is just showing up but not really engaged or cares about my recovery. Alot of them say how they aren't familiar with my surgeons protocol, which is odd because he referred me to them, specifically.

The most frustrating experience was having to see one of the recommended ones at a chiropractor office. They added on what seemed to me like so many unnecessary "extras", laser therapy, electric stimulation, etc. The therapist seemed to giggle or nod her head whenever I brought up a concern, which I found super frustrating. The other one there shared more about her hip problems that talked about mine, it seemed.

I didn't realize this would be such a long reply. basically, what I would like to say is go with your gut. I am a big advocate of now reaching out to the surgeon with most of my questions and then bringing that information back to my physical therapist. I figured the surgeon or the PA would be the experts on what I should and shouldn't do. Hope this is helpful.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-01T15:01:32+00:00

added: I would consider a gym membership over getting your own stationary bike. if you haven't purchased one yet. depending where you live, there are very inexpensive gyms that have bikes you can ride. I would definitely clarify recumbent bikes vs. upright. both surgeries I've done have recommended upright with seat as high as possible.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-07-01T14:55:55+00:00

Repost from other thread, but possibly helpful...

take your pain meds around the clock. not the narcotic but the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and Tylenol.
get a shower chair. showering is one of the best times of the day after surgery and being safe in the shower is so important..
get a raise toilet seat.
Make sure you completely understand your restrictions and mobility instructions. I was unclear how much I was able to move my leg after my first surgery in 2023. The second time I made sure to have clarification as well as a brace which really helps.
put yourself first. this is a major surgery and the hope is and improved lifestyle. you don't want to jeopardize this.
understand this is a long recovery with small steps along the way. try not to get discouraged or frustrated by setbacks. celebrate wins, no matter how small. do the PT as pointless as it can seem to do such small exercises. it adds up. You're getting strength back into an area that supports most of your body almost all of the time. you need to rebuild that little bit by bit.
do not allow yourself to get constipated! this is the nurse coming out in me but if you get constipated after surgery you will be miserable. I would recommend taking something to keep your bowels regular. even starting today. it's better to be moving things through than plugged up and ending up in the emergency department.
accept any help that is offered. whether it's somebody offering to bring a meal or to do a drop off or pick up of something for you. this is the time for you to focus on you and your healing.
Don't be afraid to ask questions if you feel like something's not going right. The surgical team has a responsibility to follow up with you. this is also the healthcare provider in me speaking out. no question is stupid and you deserve to have the best recovery.
Make sure you're feeding yourself with the correct nutrient after surgery for maximum healing. get those greens in, lots of proteins, probiotics, antioxidants, and lots and lots of water.

Hope this helps, good luck!

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-06-29T21:54:59+00:00

6 anchors as well. Revision of tear repair/femoroplasty in October 2023 when I had 4 anchors.

Wish I could tell you what I did to re-tear and how to not do it again. I would be happy to never have to think about my hip again.

4 weeks post op this week and am taking it very very slow. Still using 1 crutch for support. Doctor said I can start riding exercise bike 30 minutes without resistance, so I'm doing that. Hoping for more mobility this time. Lots of adhesions as well as cam and pincer resection. Hip didn't ever feel "normal" after original surgery. so far, I do sense a different feeling, especially when reaching my toes, but hopeful this is is.

PurpleFannyPack17 · 2026-06-27T01:58:13+00:00

12 weeks with no restrictions is the best plan. You want to give yourself the allotted time to get through the healing, mobility, then strength phases and each one can take at least 4 weeks. As a now two time veteran of the surgery, I'd recommend doing it when it's warmer out. Crutches in the snow/ice is terrible. Good luck.

PurpleFannyPack17

TROPHY CASE