First, A Couple Of Smart Things I Did
I was focused and prepared for my hip replacement surgery.
I started with prehab exercises about two months before my surgery. I was doing leg exercises in front of the TV and swimming three to four times a week.
Then, as soon as I received medical clearance after surgery, I went to the pool.
The Stupidest Thing I Did On My First Day Of Post Surgery Swim Rehab
My hip was still sore and did not have much range of motion. I had to wear flip-flops as I couldn’t really get to my feet.
I put my swimsuit on at home so I wouldn’t have to struggle with it for 15 minutes at the pool.
I arrived at the pool during a free swim period with the deep end open.
I walked up to the edge of the pool and, at first, debated either sitting down and just dropping in or using the climbing ladder. I wanted to minimize any jarring of my hip whether water or the poll tank itself. but I opted for the fastest, easiest way to get into the water – jump in feet first.
Do As I Say, Not As I Do – PLEASE!
I opted for the fastest, easiest way to get into the water – jump in feet first. I figured it was the deep end and that I wouldn’t hit bottom.
“Go!” And with that, my rehab was about to begin, except… I forgot that the bottom of the pool, near the edge, is contoured. So even though the depth sign indicated 10 feet, at the contoured edge, it was closer to six feet.
I was lucky in that I jumped in with my good leg/hip pointing straight down, and my repaired leg/hip at a 45-degree angle.
My good leg hit the contoured bottom and I felt a jolt through my body. Good thing I didn’t jump in with straight legs or I could have ended up back in surgery of a dislocated hip.
