8 Signs it is Time to Have a Hip Replacement
Have you been experiencing stiffness and pain in your hip joints, impeding routine activities like walking, moving, getting up when seated on the floor, etc.? Then you might form a potential candidate for a hip replacement! Unfortunately, we don’t realize the significance of hip joints until they cause pain and challenges. But you should stay mindful of these eight signs of hip replacement and identify them early to avoid letting the situation aggravate further.
What is Hip Replacement?
As the name suggests hip replacement involves replacing the damaged hip tissue (ball and socket) with artificial implants or prosthetics. The ball forms the femur bone’s top and the hip joint’s lower part. The socket, medically termed acetabulum, constitutes part of the pelvic bone and the hip joint’s top portion.
On the other hand, the implant consists of a ceramic ball and a titanium socket. The titanium cup is attached to the pelvic bone, allowing the artificial hip joint to move freely. The ceramic ball is attached to a metal stem surgeons insert into the femur bone to provide stability to the artificial joint.
The three main types of hip replacement surgeries include anterior hip replacement, lateral hip replacement, and posterior hip replacement.
Eight Signs of Hip Replacement
Here are eight signs of hip replacement you should remain watchful about.
1. Chronic, Constant, and Excruciating Pain
Temporary hip pain can stem from an injury or overuse. It subsides after rest or physiotherapy. However, if your chronic hip pain doesn’t reduce even after adequate rest, physiotherapy, or medications, you might need hip surgery.
2. Conservative Treatments Aren’t Working
Usually, doctors do not prescribe hip surgery in the beginning. They try conservative treatments like physical therapy, acupuncture, steroids, or anti-inflammatory medicines. It is especially if the person is too young for surgery or the condition hasn’t worsened as much. But if these options don’t work, they’d suggest replacing the joint.
3. Your Age is Above 50
Artificial hip joints usually last for 15-20 years. So, a young person in their 20s or 30s will have to undergo another surgery. While a hip replacement operation would be successful at any age, doctors usually recommend surgery after the age of 50.
4. Difficulties Performing Routine Activities
If your hip joint pain has reached a level, where you are facing challenges performing routine activities like sitting, getting up, walking, standing, etc., you might require a hip replacement operation.
5. Hip Stiffness is Limiting the Joint’s Normal Range of Motion
Another significant indication of a hip joint replacement is stiffness or weakness in the joint. These limit your range of motion and make routine tasks seem herculean.
6. Side Effects from Medications
Many people consume pain medications to alleviate hip joint pain. They prove effective when used for a short time. Their prolonged use can lead to stomach irritation, ulcers, addiction, blood clots, stroke, etc. The side effects may vary from person to person. However, if you experience any side effects, you should consult a doctor.
7. Tests Indicate Arthritis
You felt pain in your hip joint and the doctor recommended you some tests. The tests report arthritis or significant joint damage. You shouldn’t wait until the condition worsens further. Consult your doctor and know if you need a hip replacement.
8. Joint Pain is Causing Emotional Pain
Hip joint pain isn’t merely physically taxing but emotionally stressful as well. Continuously worsening pain can increase dependence on others. Together pain and dependence on others can cause emotional pain. Don’t live with it. Consult your doctor and see if hip replacement surgery can make life happier and easier.
Connect with Ranka Hospital, known as one of the best joint replacement hospitals in Pune, if you need more information on hip replacement consultation in your case. Our doctors will diagnose and chart the correct treatment for you. Call us at +91 20 2426 1600 to book an appointment.
