What Causes Left Hip Problems After Total Hip Replacement Of Right Hip?

Posted on Sun, 23 Feb 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 23 Feb 2014 Answered on

Sat, 15 Mar 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Fifteen months ago, I had total hip replacement of right hip. Now I think I have some problems with my left hip, however, since I have spinal stenosis I am not certain about hip pain source. My question has to do with riding upright bike and treadmill. Since May, I have ridden, twice a week,...

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer: Avoid strenuous activity; x ray of left hip Detailed Answer: Hello sir and welcome. Thank you for writing to us. As is with most patients with an indication for a hip replacement due to age-related bone degeneration (not traumatic), both hips are usually affected. But as hip surgery is considered a major surgery and rehabilitation requires at least one functional hip, we cannot perform a replacement for both sides at the same time. Taking this information into account, I am guessing your other hip is also not in a condition to tolerate strenuous exercises or any such regimen. I would recommend rest, not immobility, but a reduced level of activity; and most importantly an x-ray of the affected hip and the one replaced. Please visit an orthopedician with the x-ray to establish the condition of your left hip. Once this is done, we can also establish the source of your discomfort/pain. So please do avoid both cycling, and the treadmill for a while, although slow and careful walking should not be a problem. I hope you find my response both helpful and informative. Please feel free to write back to me for any further clarifications, I would be more than happy to help you. Best wishes.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Shoaib Khan (3 hours later)

Thank you for your helpful information. I am concerned that maybe I have overdone the exercises. I did play golf, rode cart, last golf season once a week April, May, XXXXXXX July, Aug, Sept, Oct 2013. Hip surgery was Oct. 2012 and I was given the go ahead for activities in 2013. I will go back to the specialist who did the surgery and see how the left hip looks and ask why my right one (surgrery) itches and burns so often. Again, thanks for your helpful reply.

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer: It is entirely my pleasure Detailed Answer: Hello once again. You are most welcome. Overuse of the left hip could have resulted in the presentation you are experiencing. But I only hope it has not led to an indication for a left hip replacement. Surgical scar healing some times results in itching. Also as the scar is in an area which faces constant moisture, it could result in itching as well. But most importantly, if there is swelling then an infection should be ruled out. Wishing you lots of luck. Do not hesitate to keep in touch or ask me for any further clarifications, it would be my pleasure to help. Best wishes.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Shoaib Khan (11 minutes later)

Thank you for your explanation of the itching; that puts my mind at ease. I do want to play golf beginning in April but riding the cart reduces how much walking I do and it seems that when I do the short walks between golf shots (cart to ball, back to cart) I feel the best. I hurt mostly in hamstrings, but the gabapentin seems to have reduced that to an acceptable level..I'll see in a couple of months. Thanks for your readiness to help. I mainly worried about the gym exercises though I feel OK afterward, just don't want to be wearing out my hip without realizing it.

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer: I am always available to help Detailed Answer: Hi. Yes, our body does endure its natural wear and tear. I knew a patient who loved his tennis. He used to willingly come in for a replacement once every 10 years. His love for the sports and long hours spent on it resulted in the wear and tear to the joint, requiring the frequent replacements. So this is a normal. Do not wory about it. But for now reduce your level of activity, till your left hip can be assessed. Keep me informed and I shall surely guide you through any further clarifications. Best of luck.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad