Your hip joints are active in so many of your daily activities, you may not even realize how much you use them. That's why chronic hip pain isn't just a nuisance -- it can be completely debilitating. When your quality of life becomes compromised, you're likely to start looking for long-term solutions, one of which may be a total hip replacement or total hip arthroplasty where an orthopaedic surgeon removes the diseased parts of the hip joint and replaces them with new, artificial parts.
At OAA Orthopaedic Specialists, we understand that surgical procedure is a big decision. That's why the board-certified team of hip replacement surgeons at our Joint Replacement Center is here to help you make the best choice for your health and lifestyle. With the latest technology and a commitment to excellence, we'll work with you to create a treatment plan that will get you back to the things you love as quickly and safely as possible.
Ready to take the first step toward the relief you deserve? Schedule your first appointment with OAA Orthopaedic Specialists today. We can help you determine whether a hip replacement is a right choice for you. If you're considering hip replacement surgery, here are eight signs it may be the right choice for you:
1 - You're experiencing constant hip pain.
Temporary hip pain can happen for a number of reasons, from sports injuries and accidents to overuse and arthritis. However, chronic hip pain that doesn't improve with rest, medication, or physical therapy may be a sign of osteoarthritis (OA) or another condition that could benefit from a hip replacement. If you're experiencing pain in your hip on a regular basis, it may be time to think about surgery. Hip replacement surgeries can provide long-lasting relief from chronic pain that interferes with your daily life.2 - You've tried other treatments without success.
If you've tried a variety of treatments without relief, your hip pain may be beyond what can be helped with medication or physical therapy. A total hip replacement isn't the only surgery that could help your condition, but it is an effective option for many patients. With a hip replacement, you'll receive implants made of durable materials that are surgically inserted to replace your damaged hip joint. This can provide significant pain relief and help you regain mobility.3 - Your quality of life is suffering.
Chronic hip pain can make it difficult to enjoy the things you love, from spending time with family and friends to participating in activities you used to enjoy. If your hip pain is impacting your quality of life, surgery may be the right choice for you. Hip replacement can help you feel better and more active again, allowing you to get back to the things that matter most.4 - You experience weakness or stiffness in your hip joint.
If your hip is stiff or weak, it's likely limiting your mobility and making daily activities more difficult. This may be a sign that you have arthritis or another condition, and when it comes to a hip replacement, symptoms like these may indicate that surgery is the best option for you. When you come in for a consultation, our team will evaluate your condition and discuss your treatment options with you.5 - You're over the age of 50.
While hip replacements can be successful at any age, they are typically recommended for patients over the age of 50. If you're experiencing chronic hip pain, you may be a good candidate for surgery, but it's important to talk to your doctor about whether hip replacement is right for you.6 - Your lifestyle requires lots of physical activity.
If your job or other activities require lots of physical activity, a total hip replacement could provide the relief you need to keep up with demanding schedules. Hip replacement surgery is an excellent option for many patients, and our team will work with you one-on-one to help you find the best treatment to relieve pain.7 - Your other joints are also affected by chronic pain.
If you have arthritis in other joints, you may be more likely to experience hip pain as well. This is because the condition can cause changes in the way you walk, which can put additional stress on your hips. If you're experiencing pain in multiple joints, talk to our team about whether a hip replacement could help improve your overall quality of life.
8 - You're in generally good health.
If you're generally healthy and don't have any other major health conditions, you may be a good candidate for hip replacement surgery. Our team will work with you to determine whether surgery is right for you and help you plan for a successful recovery.
No matter your age or activity level, if you're experiencing chronic hip pain, it may be time to consider a hip replacement. At OAA Orthopaedic Specialists, we staff board-certified orthopedists at the top Joint Replacement Center Allentown has to offer. We specialize in helping patients find long-term relief, and we focus on minimally-invasive procedures to minimize pain, cost, and recovery time. Our team will work with you one-on-one to develop a treatment plan that’s right for your needs and goals.
To learn more about our services and get started on your road to recovery, schedule your consultation with OAA today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a total hip replacement and a partial hip replacement?
A total hip replacement involves replacing both the ball and socket joint of the hip, while a partial hip replacement only replaces one part of the joint. The decision to perform a total or partial hip replacement depends on the extent of damage to the joint.
How will a hip implant last?
The lifespan of a hip implant depends on various factors such as the patient's age, level of activity, and the type of implant used. However, with advancements in technology and better materials being used, hip implants can now last up to 20 years or more. It is important for patients to follow post-surgery instructions and maintain a healthy lifestyle to prolong the lifespan of their hip implant.
Can a hip replacement be done more than once?
Yes, it is possible to undergo a second or even third hip replacement surgery if the first one wears out or becomes damaged over time. However, this is not common and can depend on individual factors such as bone density, activity level, and overall health. It's important to discuss the potential for future hip replacements with your doctor before undergoing surgery.
Is there an age limit for getting a hip replacement?
There is no specific age limit for hip replacement surgery, as it can be performed on patients of all ages. However, doctors may take into consideration other health conditions and overall life expectancy when determining if someone is a good candidate for surgery. It's important to discuss your options with your doctor to determine if hip replacement is right for you.
