Guest poster Don Blount sets an example for us all by the way he’s coming back from hip replacement surgery.
April 20 marked 39 days since I underwent surgery to replace my left hip.
Since then my focus has been on recovery, rehab and rest.
This is my second hip replacement; my right hip was replaced with an artificial joint in 2004. But this time around a less-invasive surgery has enabled me to recover more quickly.
I checked into the hospital at 12:30 p.m. March 12, underwent surgery later that day, and was on my way home by 2:30 p.m. March 13, a stay of 26 hours.
Because I was fit, my surgeon’s directions was to monitor any swelling I had in my leg. A physical therapist instructed me to not overdo it.
I was on a bike trainer by Sunday. I was not pedaling fast, hard or with any resistance but I was pedaling.
I spent my days doing rehab exercises and reading while elevating and icing my leg. I read nine books in 30 days and watched live at least part of every game of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament.
My rehab includes:
- Bike. First on the trainer and now on the road.
- Pool. I have a series of exercises to do in the pool to strengthen my hip and legs. This workout takes about 50 minutes.
- Gym. Leg extensions, leg curls, leg presses, calf raises, resistance bands, treadmill and elliptical trainer. This workout takes about 90 minutes. Here’s a look.
- Exercises for core, hamstrings, quadriceps and glutes and stretches for quadriceps. Click here to view workout video:
I am still working on walking without a limp and building my stamina. I find that rest includes a lot of naps after rehab work.
Without question, cycling has helped me through this process. Physically, I am in better shape and that has its obvious benefits. But mentally having ridden hills, centuries and double centuries helped me too. As I have told others, recovering from hip replacement surgery is nothing compared to going up a long difficult climb.
Overall, I am pleased with my progress. I returned to work on April 15 and although I am doing well, I do not receive full clearance until June 12, which is three months after surgery. Hmm, that would put the Bass Lake Powerhouse Double Century just under four months away….
That is so encouraging to hear! I hope the rehab continues to go smoothly.
Thank you, Aaron.
“Because I was fit” … I love that. Here’s for quick and better-than-successful full-recovery
Thank you, Ramon. Being in shape pre-surgery makes a huge difference post-surgery.
Awesome Don. I went through a long rehab after an ACL reconstruction and know the dedication it takes to do everything you can. You’ll be back out there doing double centuries in no time!
Thank you Jeff.
Inspiration!
Glad your on the mend. God speed.
Beautiful bike!!!