Hip Replacement Surgery
When the pain from arthritis in the hip becomes constant and lasts for months, when it means you cannot dance or play golf any more, when you are having trouble getting up from a chair or climbing stairs and just walking is a challenge, you need to find a solution. You do not have to continue to be in pain. Your doctor can prescribe medications and exercises. Physical therapy can be helpful. But if you’ve already gone that route and things are not improving, then you may need a professional assessment to see if Hip Replacement Surgery is the solution.
Hip pain is usually caused by osteoarthritis, the wear and tear variety of arthritis. Other diseases can cause chronic pain as well, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Old injuries, especially fractures, can cause severe pain that worsens with age. X-rays or other more sophisticated tests like CT scans and MRIs can help to diagnose the cause of the pain. Hip joint replacement will only help if the hip joint is the cause of the pain.
Call the Center for Bone & Joint (727) 697-2200
Age is no longer a major consideration in determining who is appropriate for his replacement. Doctors used to restrict surgery to those over age 60, but the materials that the prosthesis is made of are far more durable now and last a lot longer. Younger people are opting to have a replacement. Age doesn’t disqualify anyone from having a replacement either. But poor health, persistent infections, uncontrolled diabetes, recent heart attack or stroke, obesity are all problems that must be addressed. Some people are poor candidates for the surgery. For example people with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders that have weakened muscles are unlikely to rehabilitate well.
The surgery consists of removing the old, damaged hip joint and replacing it with a metal prosthesis. The prosthesis is made of materials that allow the joint to move smoothly. The procedure usually takes a few hours. You would be in the hospital for a few days and then transferred to a rehabilitation facility for a couple of weeks. Recovery takes months and requires physical therapy. You have to be willing to put in the effort. The success of the surgery is due to the prosthesis, to the surgeon, to the physical therapy, but mostly to the patient.
The benefits of hip replacement are simple – relief of pain and improvement in the quality of life. You will walk better. You may or may not play golf again. But you should be able to do a lot of things you thought were gone forever. If hip pain is preventing you from living the life you want, consider hip replacement surgery.
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in your daily activities, now is the time to talk to Dr. Salinsky about your unique case. Many patients go on for years suffering different types of aches and pains related to mobility. By consulting with Dr. Salinsky – you will be able to have a clear diagnosis and clinical plan to help you feel better, thereby, improving your quality of life. If you are feeling discomfort in any of the areas described above, call Dr. Salinsky’s office at 727-697-2200 to discuss your individual situation.