L5-S1 fusion, 6mos post op hip pain

[PoppyAqua]

Hi, I had minimal surgery (three small surgical sites) for spondy 2 with instability and L5 nerve compression(left side): I had decompression with interbody and fusion of L5 to S1. Things have been going pretty well, I have finished PT, am increasing my activity level soon (finishing school and doing externship) mid Jan, when I began to notice an ache in my left hip - it feels like it is inside near the joint of my leg. It seems to be more frequent now. I have sensitivity on my illiac crest that was noted by the PT. Is this normal or is this something I should get the doctor involved with? My surgeon tragically passed away this past Nov, so I am seeing a spinal doctor to manage the meds and she has said that any surgical ?? should would try to grab another surgeon in the practice. Thanks for any advice!

[squirtatious]

Hi, as a post back surgery spondy member, it wasn't until 2 yrs after my surgery that MY hips began to hurt. I had the same level fused as did you. When we fuse our vertebra, our lower level as I'm sure your aware, can no longer move in sinc with the upper level. To have deteriation or damage is inevitable. Becuz my sacrum cannot move, it has caused my hips to misalign and hurt quite a bit. I'm rekindling my relationship with my chiro and his office so I can fight any further deteriation and find relief. I really with you health and wellness!! *hugs*

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a clinical evaluation it would be difficult to determine the cause of the hip pain. Possibilities that may need to be considered include infections/ inflammations, bursitis, tendonitis, arthritis, capsulitis, ligament/ tendon tears, growths/ tumours, nerve impingement, avascular necrosis, fractures, dislocations, spinal issues/ referred pain from other regions etc. I would suggest getting this evaluated by an orthopedician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this helps.

Take care!