Categories: Physical Therapy

Four Things to Know About Hip Replacement

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.

Facts about hip replacement

Patients planning to undergo a hip replacement procedure can prepare by learning more about what to expect. Important things to know include:

Different options are available

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.

The results can last between 15 to 20 years

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.

The risks are manageable

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.

Physical therapy is necessary for complete recovery

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.

In conclusion

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.

Related Posts

How Adolescent Physical Therapy Supports Recovery And Development

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…

Tendinitis Treatment Options From A Rheumatologist

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 Options From A Wellness Center

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…

Enhance Recovery With A Physical Therapist

Recovery from surgery or injury is challenging, but a physical therapist can greatly ease the process. As a crucial component of rehabilitation, physical therapy helps patients regain strength, mobility, and stamina while reducing pain. Whether recovering from a surgical procedure or an injury, a physical therapist can develop a personalized treatment plan to guide you…

Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT

Share
Published by
Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT

Recent Posts

How Adolescent Physical Therapy Supports Recovery and Development

Sports injuries are frequent among adolescents, especially those active in school or recreational sports.

4 weeks ago

Tendinitis Treatment Options from a Rheumatologist

It is important to visit the rheumatologist as soon as you start noticing the symptoms…

2 months ago

Carpal Tunnel Treatment Options From a Wellness Center

Working with your doctor can improve your condition so that you can go back to…

3 months ago

Enhance Recovery with a Physical Therapist

Whether recovering from a surgical procedure or an injury, a physical therapist can develop a…

4 months ago

How Cupping Therapy Can Help With Pain Management

Call our office to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.

5 months ago

Preventing Tendinitis: Tips for Healthy Tendons

Tendinitis is uncomfortable, so it is best to prevent it when possible.

6 months ago