Question:
I was stiff in the legs and hips before wls but I am still having problems

I am having problems with stiff legs and hips and my legs are sore at times, I figured after I lost some of the weight I wouldn't have to suffer from this. I'm down about 60 pds since Sept. 26th not to shabby lol    — CARRIE C. (posted on December 1, 2003)

December 1, 2003
Good for you Carrie! COngrats on your success so far. I have had problems with the same, even after a loss of 140+ lbs I still suffer slightly- but it is greatly improved. I don't think we can ever go back to completely normal. You may have arthritis or the like. The weight loss will improve the condition greatly but it can't make it disappear. Hang in there. It will get better as time goes along. Perhaps you can also speak to your Dr. about this and see if medication or PT are in order.
   — LMCLILLY

December 1, 2003
I have been stiff in my legs, ankles and hips ever since I was a young teenager. I was hoping that by losing 100 pounds it would get better. I have lost 95 so far and I think my hips actually hurt more now. But that's mostly after sleeping on my side sometimes, maybe it's because I don't have the fat there for cushion anymore. I don't really have an answer for you, but just wanted you to know you are not alone. Best of luck and best of health to you! Sandra
   — SandyParker

December 1, 2003
Actually, a nurse told me that many people who rapidly lose weight have temporarily increased hip pain. She said she wasn't sure why but that many of her WLS patients reported it in the first year or so. Personally, I suffer from osteoarthritis from years and years as a dancer in my youth and also from a herniated disk in my lower back. I find that regular stretching and exercise (at least 5 days a week), coupled with the weight loss (71 lbs in 3 months!!) has truly helped. I'm almost NEVER in pain now, though my hips and ankles are still a bit stiff in the mornings, a result of the joints filling with fluid during sleep. I find that Yoga is great for pain relief as long as I take it easy. Swimming is also good as it prevents too much strain on the joints. Good luck to you!!!!
   — jenpatalano

December 1, 2003
Wow was I glad to see this question. Since my open RNY 7 weeks ago my hips are killing me. I already had left hip pain before due to fibromyalgia... now it's worse and is in both hips. After the slightest amount of walking, like an average trip to walmart or to get a buggy of groceries my hips are huring so bad I walk like an old old person! My feet are killing me too, the same way. I attributed this to the fibromyalgia but was very interested to read I am not the only one having this (but sorry you are suffering!) and the post about what the nurse said tells me this must be "normal" and hopefully will improve.... Pam in GA
   — Pam B.