Hey Surf,
I went back through and read most of your posts. And like most, you want surgery to be the last course of action. I felt the same way also -- and I employed every natural plan that I knew of. I spent thousands of dollars on massage, rolfing, physical therapy, diet, and supplements. I did show improvement in flexibility with physical therapy and massage, but I could never make the inflammation go away. Eventually, I would plateau, and in one case, I overworked it -- which was horribly painful. I think you realize this, but short term rest will only ease serious acute pain. It won't make the problem go away. In fact, I think it gets worse because you lose muscle tone. Once that happens, you are in a vicious cycle.
I think you are right to question the surgery, but know when to draw the line. When I went to see Dr. Hoadley, he said that he thinks most of these injuries will resolve themselves if caught early enough. And he even said that my exam was not that impressive in terms of discomfort or pain. But he said that being on the sidelines for 18 months is enough to know that it probably isn't going to heal on its own.
I'm healing nicely after four days and walking continuously for 30 minutes without pain or altered gait, but still worried about the mesh repair. And I also am concerned that I may still have a labral hip tear. Imaging showed negative for FAI, but still concerned about a possible tear.
I'm probably going to try the stationary bike this afternoon. Dr. Hoadley's goal was for me to be walking on a treadmill by 5/28 and I think I'm way ahead of that. Can't get on a treadmill today since the gym is closed. I'm up to walking four times a day outside for 30 minutes, including hills here in Western North Carolina.
The only real pain I have is at the incision point. I have some muscle soreness from pulling myself out of bed etc., but no significant pain in day 4. I'm happy with this quick recovery, but it remains to be seen whether or not I can play soccer again.
I plan on keeping everyone posted... I know how emotionally draining this injury is -- so I hope to have good news.
cheers,
den