complete medial and minimus gluteal tears.

[Sumojo]

I’m currently booked in to have my gluteal tears repaired. I told the surgeon I had PMR but he didn’t seem very interested. I’m just worried whether my shoulders and other hip will withstand the 6 weeks on crutches required. Also is there any evidence that the tears are caused by taking pred.

im currently on 5mg, but after three weeks on this dose I’m already feeling achy in my arms and shoulders. I simply don’t know whether to have the surgery or not. Steroid injections have helped with the hip and leg pain and at the moment I’m walking quite well. Except for walking up hill or stairs. I’m 79 is it worth having it done. That’s what I’m asking myself. Opinions?

[bussell]

An MRI I had done in December revealed tears and oedema in the gluteus minimus, major tears to the tendons of the medius and minimus, and severe trochanteric bursitis.

I was seen by a connective tissue and rheumatology consultant. He explained why he would not recommend surgery in my case - too intrusive, not always totally successful, and really I am too old (83 since you ask). He rather sweetly added that if I were young and a keen sports player, eg Emma Radocanu, his advice would be different! I was happy to go along with this, and four months later, all seems to have healed and I am nearly back to normal - touch wood. As you comment, uphill or a lot of stairs not quite as good as I would like - yet. But I am hopeful. I don't know if this is helpful, but hope so.

[Sumojo in reply to bussell]

Thank you so much for replying. It’s certainly given me food for thought. I just wondered if your tears were what they call complete? Meaning torn completely off the hip? If I thought I would eventually improve without surgery I wouldn’t go ahead. The surgeon told me the tendons couldn’t reattach without surgery and talked about ending up in a gopher (electric scooter) Do you also have PMR?

Thanks Sue

[bussell in reply to Sumojo]

The mri reports tears in the tendons and a full thickness tear in the gluteus minimus tendon. It does not say the tendons have become detached. So I think my case is not as severe perhaps as yours. I wouldn’t want to mislead you. I have had PMR for a bit over two years and that seems to be regarded as a contributory factor. It’s a b…. isn’t it? Good luck with your decision.

[Sumojo]

Thank you so much for the information. I’m still undecided.🙃

I’m seeing the surgeon again on Friday so I suppose I need to make up mind one way or another soon!

Sue

[bussell]

Good luck with the decision, whichever it is!