My Hip Surgery Story and Update

Welcome to my new blog!!!

Because people are always wondering where I’ve been and what I find that’s interesting, I’m thrilled to have this space to share with all of you some of the more personal happenings that occur in my life. Enjoy!

It is a really frightening thing to hear that you need a major operation but, as many of you know, that is just what I was told after dealing with an aching hip that just would not get better for two whole years.  I first became aware of a problem when I could no longer do certain yoga postures comfortably.  I tried massage treatments, chiropractors, and different medications, but nothing brought relief.  When I could no longer walk without visibly limping, I started talking to several different surgeons about my options.  It became clear that I needed a hip replacement, which included the upper head of my femur, or thigh bone, and the hip socket that it fits into.  However, one doctor said I wouldn't need the surgery for 10 years, while another was ready to do it immediately.  I was afraid and uncertain.  Then I met Dr. Steven Stuchin, the Director of Orthopedic Surgery at the New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases, Chief of the Arthritis Management Services, and a wonderful surgeon.

Dr. Steven Stuchin

Dr. Stuchin spent a great deal of time talking to me, explaining that my X-rays revealed that the thin layer of cushioning cartilage between my left femur and hip socket had worn away, causing my awful pain.  He told me there are many reasons why this can happen, including heredity, injury, and daily wear and tear.   He showed me models of the latest, extremely high-tech replacement parts made of highly polished cobalt chrome, parts that would last a very long time –- 120 to 2,000 years, in fact!  He walked me step by step through the entire procedure, describing the incision, the sawing and removal of the bones, and the fitting and bonding of the new replacement.  He answered my questions clearly and confidently and told me that this surgery is equal parts carpentry, arts and crafts, sculpture, and science.  It started to make perfect sense to me to go ahead with a hip replacement.   Timing of the operation was critical because I had to be certain that I would be completely healed by the start of my new television season in September.  So, we counted back from that date and scheduled the procedure accordingly during the summer.  Dr. Stuchin performed what is considered a minimally invasive surgery.  Unlike older hip-replacement procedures, which required large incisions and cutting through two or three muscles, he made one 4-inch-long incision and cut through only one muscle, which makes for a much faster recuperation.

My new shiny parts!

When I woke up after the operation, I was amazed and so happy with how little pain I felt.  The morning after the surgery I got out of bed anxious to try out my new hip and with the aid of a walker, I strolled twice around the hospital hallways.  It was wonderful to think I would no longer be limping and I was anxious to begin my physical therapy.  I felt it was really important to have therapy every single day that was possible, about six times a week for eight weeks and twice a week after that.  My program was centered on stretching, muscle strengthening, and massage. I used a cane for stability, but after five weeks, I could walk with no cane at all.   

Today, with my new hip and no more pain, I am so very happy.  I also am so appreciative to Dr. Stuchin and his wonderful team of medical professionals, who really put me at ease.  I am also happy to report that I am practicing yoga again and it is pain free!

Comments

[Marcia]

Nuh-uh; am I really the first person to comment?

I love the shot of the parts.

[Amanda]

Wow, those parts look scary to me. Glad you are doing so well.

[Betsy]

Wow, I'm really glad the surgery went so well and that your hip is better! It must be such a relief to not have that pain anymore. :)

By the way, the new blog looks great! It's very exciting!

[Lisa Lynn]

You go girl!!!!! Thats you-getting right up and moving!
You are a rock!
Have a Lean day!!!!
Your pal Lisa Lynn

[kate]

Glad to hear the surgery went well!

[Rhonda]

Hi Martha!

I'm excited to start following your new blog!

I'll make sure to spread the word to my readers on my blog too!

Rhonda

[Robin Garner]

Hope you are feeling better by the minute . . . that would be a good thing.

[Lori Lemanski]

I did not know that you were in such pain Martha..I am so glad that the surgery went so well! You are, as always, an inspiration! Best wishes for a continued full recovery!
Lori

[Cherry Menlove]

Both your attitude to the operation and your shiny new blog are an inspiration. Can't wait to visit again. In the meantime, do take care of yourself.
Cherry Menlove
England

[Mark]

Awsome blog design! Can't wait to come back everyday.

[Dawn]

Thank you for sharing your story Martha. As an LPN in long term care I see the effects of the "old" hip replacements and it takes a huge toll on the body. The least invasive the better. Happy hipping!

[Catherine]

Hip hip hooray!
Love the new blog.

[Trish]

Thanks for all the information. One day I might need knee replacement and the thought of it really scares me. Your blog is helpful.
Trish

[Joanne]

Martha, I always knew you must be part robot and now this confirms it! :-) Congratulations on your new parts and speedy recovery.

[Katie Beymer]

Nice blog! Can wait for your next show!

[Claudine]

My grandmother had this done about the same time as you, and she was up and moving in no time. Glad you are doing better, we need you around for at least another 120 years.

[Ruth Chick]

Hi Martha:
I know just what you went through with the hip as I had the replacement hip surgery 2 yrs. ago. I am now facing another hip operation in the near future as I am having the same symtoms again.
Hope this time it can be the minimum invasive surgery and recuperate as well as last time.
Nice to hear that everything went well with you and you were able to research the surgery so thoroughly. I enjoy your show. We would never have known you had that surgery.
Best wishes, Ruth

[Babeth]

I'm very happy the surgery went well.
Take good care of you Martha!
Cheers

[Janie Schisler]

As usual, another project well researched, throughly planned ...and in perfect running order. You continually amaze me and give me encouragement. Kudo's to you Martha! Take good care and we look forward to your show and books.
Fondly,
Janie

[Cindy]

Martha - I always enjoyed reading your stories on the last page of your magazine and now I love the fact that you have a new blog! I think it's wonderful that you shared your surgery w/your viewers. I too may have to face hip surgery in the future and am comforted that you have already went through this with ease!

[skyedog]

Wow thats wonderful! I had my first replacement at age 24 my second 6 weeks later once I realized what it was like to be pain free. That was 17 years ago, 2 years ago I had to have one partially redone, I have the old titanium type that is supposed to last about 15 years so we are good so far. It is a good thing to live pain free isn't it? I even went downhill skiing so you will soon be doing everything you used to.
Your prosthesis wasn't made in China was it?. Take care of yourself and live well

[Susie Anderson]

You make it sound so easy :) Great to hear that you're doing fabulously and I love the look of your new blog!

[Patia]

I had no idea! How you managed to have hip replacement surgery and still rule the world, I'll never know. You are amazing.

[Sarah Walden]

I am so glad that you will be able to continue your yoga. Last week when you had that very nice trainer on and took us through those simple stretches, I noticed the beautiful serenity on your face as you gracefully held each pose and I thought, "Ah! That's how she makes it through her extraordinary routine!" Blessings of health on you - our nation's favourite aunt!

[Daynah]

Martha, I love your new blog. :) Isn't it much better than the myspace one? hehe