12 weeks on 12/12/12

It’s the holiday season and, for me, that means BAKING. In recent years, it also meant pain and limited energy ~ but not this year!

This is just one of the many tasks I am able to do – and enjoy – with my new hip joint.

As of today – 12/12/12 – I am 12 weeks post-op and moving right along towards a full recovery.

Physical therapy has been ongoing and, slowly but surely, my strength and range of motion are improving. The cane has been relegated to the back of my car and I am back on the treadmill, gradually increasing my speed and endurance.

I met with Dr. Wellman about six weeks ago and he officially released me from my precautions, noting that he was surprised to see that I was “on track” with my recovery. Given my unique situation, he had expected me to be lagging behind.

During that visit, I was shown my X-rays “before” -- depicting my tilted pelvis -- and “after.” Don’t ask me how, but Dr. Wellman succeeded in not only replacing my hip joint, but also leveling my pelvis!

The difference is dramatic. I can lie flat on my back with my legs extended – something I haven’t been able to do in a long time. I can carry things in both hands, out in front of my body, without struggling through each step. But most importantly, I don’t ache anymore.

Although I have resumed a normal routine, I still have work to do. The muscles in my right hip were inactive for years and it will take time to restore their strength and flexibility. But I’m headed in the right direction!