A hip replacement involves replacing the damaged hip joint with a new one. In this article, we will talk about who should consider getting hip replacement surgery, and where you can go in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes for a consultation with a top orthopedic doctor.
The two hip joints are crucial in supporting your body’s weight and serve as a pivotal junction between the trunk and lower extremities for balance and stability. Your hips make the large range of motion possible needed whenever you stand, walk, and climb stairs.
It is not hard to imagine the big impact hip pain can have on your life. Chronic hip pain may manifest as persistent discomfort or stiffness in the hip joint which limits mobility and impacts daily activities. It is a common symptom of arthritis but can also be caused by a severe injury.
Who Should Get Hip Replacement Surgery?
Orthopedic surgeons assess the suitability and timing for hip replacement surgery through a comprehensive evaluation process.
The doctor considers various factors, such as the patient’s:
- Symptoms
- Medical history
- The severity of the hip condition
- Functional limitations
- Quality of life
Orthopedic doctors typically conduct a physical exam involving a visual inspection and palpation of the hip region, followed by an assessment of range of motion and strength. An imaging test is used to visualize the hip joint and assess bone quality, joint degeneration, and cartilage loss.
Research shows that hip replacement is one of the most successful orthopedic surgeries for relieving chronic pain. Approximately 90 to 95 percent of people who undergo total hip replacement experience almost complete pain relief after surgery.
The doctor may recommend a hip replacement for the following reasons:
#1 Severe and Persistent Hip Pain
Persistent pain in the groin and frontal thigh area, especially if it worsens with movement or weight-bearing activities, may indicate degenerative changes in the hip joint. This discomfort can result from conditions such as arthritis, where the cartilage cushioning the hip joint wears down, leading to bone-on-bone contact and inflammation.
#2 Hip Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion
If hip pain significantly hampers your ability to perform daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for prolonged periods, it suggests an impairment in hip function. If bending or flexing the hip joint elicits pain or feels restricted, or if simple tasks such as bending down to put on shoes or socks become challenging, further assessment and management may determine the need for surgical intervention.
#3 Difficulty Sleeping
Pain that disrupts sleep and consistently wakes you up at night is a red flag for more severe hip problems and can have detrimental effects on overall well-being and quality of life. Pain interrupting sleep can be indicative of advanced joint damage, requiring comprehensive evaluation and potentially surgical intervention to alleviate the underlying cause.
#4 Hip Fractures
Individuals with hip fractures resulting from trauma and falls may require hip replacement surgery to repair the fracture and stabilize the joint. Usually, in fractures where the blood supply to the hip joint is damaged, a hip replacement may be recommended to restore mobility and function in the affected hip.
#5 No Relief from Conservative Treatment Methods
Persistent hip pain that persists despite conservative measures such as over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications warrants closer medical attention. Conventional treatments usually fail to provide adequate relief in patients with advanced joint degeneration.
#5 Progressive Disability
Progressive disability, worsening hip symptoms, decreased quality of life, and an inability to engage in recreational due to hip joint problems may prompt discussions about the potential benefits of hip replacement surgery.
A total hip replacement may be the type of treatment that can give you much-needed relief from your chronic symptoms. Consult an orthopedic doctor experienced in hip replacement surgery to find out whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Hip Replacement Surgery in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes, FL
The board-certified orthopedic doctors at Total Orthopaedic Care are experienced in total hip replacement surgery or hip arthroplasty. As orthopedic specialists, we understand the impact chronic hip pain can have on your quality of life, and we offer you compassionate and expert care.
A hip replacement consultation could provide valuable insights into your condition and offer personalized treatment options to alleviate your pain and improve your mobility. Our friendly team looks forward to working together to get you back on your feet pain-free!
Don’t let hip pain hold you back from enjoying life any longer. Schedule a consultation today by calling our office at (954) 735-3535. You can also use our convenient online form to schedule your appointment.
