Hippy Chic: Joint Camp

In preparation for my hip surgery in January, Mark and I attended Joint Camp at the facility where I'll be having the surgery. The head nurse on the floor and the PT lead each spoke for about an hour and answered questions. Of the ten patients attending, I was the only one with brown hair and the only one having my hip done. The others were much older and were all having knees replaced.

We talked about pre-op stuff, exercises, medications, check in, anesthesia, PT, recovery, walkers, and how to get in and out of beds, chairs and cars. It was definitely worthwhile, and good for Mark to hear too so he knows more what to expect.

I was surprised to get confirmation that I will only have three PT visits at home after my surgery, while a knee patient receives daily therapy for two weeks, then 3x a week for two weeks, etc. Hips are so much easier to rehab apparently. I already know I will have a posterior approach incision roughly six inches long, and a spinal anesthesia instead of general - also for quicker recovery.

Still trying to line up friends to come and stay with us - to help with driving mostly, because Mark cannot do half days for a month until I get clearance to drive again. In hindsight, I wish I would have had this surgery before we moved away from San Antonio, but our new friends here in DFW are ready to help with meals and rides, etc. Hopefully, I'll be able to drive after four weeks, which is much better than the 6-8 weeks mentioned in some of the literature!

I'm registered at the hospital and have pre-op appointments set up with my PA and operating surgeon in the next few weeks. I got new pajama pants and slippers for Christmas for my recovery outfit. Nothing to do but wait!