The doctor will usually recommend a hip replacement when hip issues become inhibitive and reduce your quality of life. The hip is one of the body’s largest joints, bearing the weight and supporting movement. Replacing the hip with an artificial joint can help restore pain-free mobility and full function. The procedure is often used as a final resort when other interventions like medicine and physical therapy fail to yield productive results.
Patients planning to undergo a hip replacement procedure can prepare by learning more about what to expect. Important things to know include:
Most hip replacements involve complete replacement of the entire hip joint. However, the doctor may suggest partial replacement sometimes. This often involves removing and replacing the thighbone ball alone. The three regular types of complete hip replacement include cemented, uncemented, and hybrid, which combines both cemented and uncemented parts. Each option has its pros and cons, so it is advisable to discuss the most suitable option with the doctor.
Hip replacements ultimately deteriorate because the artificial joints do not have the same resilience as natural joints. There is a chance patients might need another surgery 20 years after undergoing a hip replacement. However, taking certain steps can extend the lifespan of the artificial hip. The first is to maintain a healthy weight to reduce the load on the joint. Being overweight increases the rate of joint failure. Regular exercises help to improve the strength and stability of the hip. It is important to avoid falls.
Hip replacement has a high success rate, but it is not without risks. The risks include infection, blood clots, implant failure, persistent hip pain, irregular leg lengths, and dislocation. The doctor might prescribe blood thinners (anticoagulants) for use several weeks after the procedure to prevent blood clots. Patients need to protect their hips by sleeping with a pillow between their legs and being careful not to cross their legs or bend the hips beyond 90 degrees during recovery. The doctor will provide detailed instructions for aftercare to ensure a successful recovery and minimize risk.
Patients may need to remain admitted for three to five days after undergoing hip replacement. Recovery takes multiple weeks of physical therapy and rehab exercises. This helps to enhance the range of motion and joint function. A short stay at the rehab center may also be necessary after leaving the hospital. Patients might need up to six months for complete recovery and function. It is advisable to discuss with the doctor to know what to expect with the procedure.
Hip replacement procedures have a high success rate. Patients need to set realistic expectations for the procedure. It might take a while to get used to the new hip. Once recovery is over, you can return to your usual activities without experiencing pain, but you will need to avoid high-impact activities until recovery is complete.
Get more information here: https://ocptclinic.com or call Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT at (949) 299-0297
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Hip Replacement in Newport Beach, CA.
Anti-pain medication is typically the first course of action for pain management, but it is not the best option for all patients since pain medication comes with some risks like leading to chemical dependencies. People with chronic pain often have to seek alternative ways to manage their discomfort to avoid having to take painkillers for…
Adolescence is a time of rapid growth, physical changes, and active lifestyles. For many young people, injuries or physical challenges can disrupt this stage of development. Adolescent physical therapy plays a key role in helping young individuals recover from injuries and challenges to improve their physical health.Adolescent physical therapy focuses on the unique needs of…
If you start having pain in your joints and tendons due to tendinitis, a visit to the rheumatologist is imminent. Tendons are flexible but inelastic cords of dense and fibrous collagen tissues that connect the muscle to the bone. A tendon enables motion by transferring the pull of the muscle to the bone. Tendinitis usually…
Carpal tunnel treatment can help relieve your carpal tunnel syndrome or CTS symptoms. CTS occurs because of median nerve compression. The pain travels through the carpal tunnel. Starting the treatment early is possible when the symptoms start. Here are the carpal tunnel treatment options that you can get from a wellness center.A wellness center focuses…
Chronic pain can be addressed by making changes to a patient's diet.
Sports injuries are frequent among adolescents, especially those active in school or recreational sports.
It is important to visit the rheumatologist as soon as you start noticing the symptoms…
Working with your doctor can improve your condition so that you can go back to…
Whether recovering from a surgical procedure or an injury, a physical therapist can develop a…
Call our office to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.
