Florida Keys and a New Hip

[Time2Go]

Hi Friends,
Well sometimes life throws a curve ball.
I joined the forum a few months ago seeking advice on putting
together some cruising and boat purchase plans for next winter.
As a result of those discussions I scaled back from doing the Caribbean
in one season into just the Bahamas and maybe a jaunt down to the DR and
then the rest in the following seasons. I got great advice and was able to refocus
on what to look for in purchasing a boat ( 30’or so)
Now the curve ball. As a result of a skiing accident 10 years ago,
five years ago I was advised that I had advanced arthritis in the left hip and that it was only a matter of time before
I’d need it replaced.
So after a few months of thinking I could tough it out
and make it through at least one season of cruising (Hence- Time2Go)
It just became unmanageable from a range of motion and pain perspective and a week ago
I had a Total Hip Replacement. I’m already walking with a cane and hope to be able to
handle the docks at the Annapolis show in 2 months.
So my new questions are:
Anybody out there cruising around with a Titanium Hip Replacement?
I’d love hear how you did and how it has impacted your cruising life?
I’m still sticking to my plans and going for it next winter
But something’s will have to change I might have to scale down to
27’ after I pay all the various deductibles.
Boat will have to be in better shape As I don’t think I will be up for all the contortion jobs
I also plan on staying in the Keys and Dry Tortugas until I get
my sea legs back, practice with the boat and just get
comfortable with a new joint.
Is there enough there to keep me busy for four months?
I knew this was coming but thought I had more time.
Now it’s Hull, Engine, Rigging, Sails and GO
Tiller is now fine, Atomic 4 fine, Just the basics
**** like this happens and you realize that this is indeed a one way street
I'm turning 60 in a few months and experiencing the cruising life is a dream
that I’m not going to let slip by so I'm looking forward to
hearing from anybody out there who is in the same boat
(no pun intended)

[Therapy]

I don't have a replacement hip but have 15 years of involvement with the surgery itself. Seven of those at four days a week. Both primary and revision of all major joint replacements.

Listen to your doctor as far as acceptable range of motion. Depending on the particular surgical approach simply sitting and leaning forward with some internal rotation can get you a dislocation. Small, low marine heads come to mind as a risk. That will dampen your docking procedure when you return for your reduction for sure.

Those with personal experience probably know more specifics. I just say that proper and contentious rehab is key to proper healing/strength in the long run.

I also think there is more "contortion" in a smaller boat. Controls to the cockpit of a larger boat will be less strenuous overall.

All is IMO.

[bobconnie]

I have been sailing with a stainless steel hip for over 25 yrs ! a little pain once in a while, but nothing a couple of asprin won't take care of ! Just my 2 cents

[Therapy]

Originally Posted by bobconnie

I have been sailing with a stainless steel hip for over 25 yrs ! a little pain once in a while, but nothing a couple of asprin won't take care of ! Just my 2 cents

Resurfaced femoral head, bi-polar implant or both femoral and acetabular components?

It makes a difference.

[tomfl]

I am in the camp that sailing the boat is the easy part. I am also older than you are but still am able to live on my boat and cruise. To a big extent this is because I have a catamaran with steps on the sugar scoops making getting into and out of the dingy much easier than some of the folks in the harbor with high freeboard monohulls. Things like roller furring and an electric windless for the anchor also make life easier.

How much you enjoy or are able to cruise will depend a lot on the design of the boat you get and how you set it up.

[Mike Vogdes]

Don't let a hip replacement slow you down, I know quite a few people who are active in boating with joint replacements. Like you I'll be 60 this year and have severe arthritis. Five years ago I had my right shoulder replaced and three years ago I have had both knees replaced. The knee joint recovery was nearly a year be for I felt comfortable sailing again, but now I'm good to go.

[Time2Go]

Hi Friends
Thanx for all replies and encouragement
Therapy, the hip precautions have been drilled into me
by some really good PT's at Kessler Rehab,you are correct
Sitting on my butt is the most uncomfortable position
The plan is now for 3 months of PT, 3 times a week
I just hope the insurance company doesn't screw me over
You and
Others have pointed out things that I will have to figure into the mix
Low marine toilets
Dingy access
Crowded cockpit on smaller boat
All things that I haven't thought about

Thanx to all