Two weeks to go before arthroscopic hip surgery to repair a torn labrum — the result of femoroacetabular impingement (F.A.I.), or hip impingement syndrome. That’s when the femoral head of the thigh bone rubs against the acetabulum, or cuplike socket of the hip joint. This rubbing can damage the soft elastic tissue that surrounds the hip socket, or the labrum, as well as the cartilage that covers the hip bones. The Mayo Clinic has a slightly longer explanation here. Or you could go to the Web site for the Hospital for Special Surgery, where I’ll be going for the surgery, for an even more detailed explanation.
As I ready myself for the day, there are a few things that I can now cross off on my to-do list:
- Get upright stationary bike. Check. I borrowed a Gold’s Gym Power Cycle 210 from a friend.
- Place order for rental of CPM machine (short for continuous passive motion, where machine moves leg to prevent stiffness). Check.
- Order for Game Ready ice machine rental (sure beats constantly refilling bags of ice). Check.
- Decide where to go for physical therapy afterwards. (I’m going here.) Check.
- Stay healthy and maintain fitness level (once a week I do an easy three-mile run, yoga and spin, with other other cross training, weight-lifting and core-strengthening in between) Check.
- Maintain a good, positive attitude. Check. Check!
For anyone else facing arthroscopic hip surgery, or wondering whether they might need it too, this is typically an outpatient procedure (it will be for me), so you’ll be home the same day. It is done under spinal anesthesia and sedation (deep sleep). You will be on crutches for up to 10 days, I am told, which is also around the time you’ll have your stitches removed. Then you can drive again and begin physical therapy sessions. (Working from home is O.K., too.)
According to my doctor, I can actively swim and use the elliptical trainer after two months and begin to run (maybe!) after three months. This is the best part of all!
Thanks so much for reading, Kathleen! As I’ve gotten older, I, too, have found myself toning down some of my workouts and activities. But in the process, I’ve also added new things to the mix: yoga (which helps with balance and core development) and, of course, core-strengthening exercises (i.e., squats, bridges, etc.) to help prevent injuries.
Vivian: A beautiful site and so much information! I have a sketchy right hip myself and often worry about what’s down the road. I also learned earlier this year that I have osteoporosis of the hip and spine–despite all these years of regular workouts and eating what I thought was (basically) a good diet. I’ve since retooled my workouts to avoid dangerous movements!
I look forward to combing your site for your advice and insight!
Kathleen