When you have recurring hip pain from a joint problem, your doctor will first try conservative pain management techniques. However, as hip joint problems worsen and cause severe pain and limited mobility, your doctor may recommend hip replacement surgery. At the Joint Replacement Institute, our experienced surgeons may recommend hip replacement to restore your mobility, eliminate pain symptoms, and improve your quality of life.
Reasons Why a Doctor May Recommend Hip Replacement Surgery
Before a hip replacement surgeon determines if you need a joint replacement, they will thoroughly evaluate you and take many factors into consideration.
Conservative Treatments Fail to Work
One classic sign that you need hip replacement surgery is if conservative measures are no longer working, and you’ve exhausted your treatment options. For instance, your doctor may try injections, such as corticosteroids, to combat your pain and inflammation. Your physician may also recommend physical therapy, so you can maintain strength, mobility, and flexibility for as long as possible. When these methods fail, your only option may be joint replacement.
Your Mobility Is Limited
Another sign that hip replacement surgery is best for you is if you have very little range of motion remaining in your hip. If you notice you cannot function your hip the way you used to, such as when bending down, walking, running, or sleeping on your side, it may be time for a replacement of the hip joint. Replacing the hip can restore the functionality in the area.
Pain Relievers No Longer Work
Your physician may recommend hip replacement surgery if you have pain that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other pain management techniques no longer address. While there are many stronger pain relievers available on the market, most of them are not intended for long-term use because of serious side effects. As such, when routine pain relievers are no longer effective at alleviating your pain, it may be time to replace the problematic hip.
Determining If Hip Replacement Surgery Is Right for You
After your surgeon suggests hip replacement surgery, you’ll need to undergo a physical examination and testing to ensure the procedure is safe for you. Like any major surgery, hip replacement is no walk in the park. It will require you to be fairly healthy, be in control of your other medical conditions, and be able to withstand the use of anesthesia. This will ensure there are minimal complications during and after surgery and that you’ll be able to recover fully.
To get clearance for the procedure, you will need to undergo a medical evaluation, blood tests, and meet with an anesthesiologist prior to scheduling the surgery.
Choose Our Naples, FL Orthopedic Practice for Your Hip Problems
If you have hip pain, the expert surgeons at The Joint Replacement Institute can help. We treat all sorts of orthopedic conditions and injuries, including hip damage. We employ nonsurgical and surgical treatment solutions and custom-tailor treatment plans for each patient.
Book an appointment with The Joint Replacement Institute, serving Naples and the surrounding Florida area, for assistance with your joint pain. Call us at (239) 261-2663, or request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you soon.
