Is It Time for a Hip Replacement?
The older we get, the more our bodies tend to betray us with our aches and pains. If you find that getting out of bed in the morning is challenging, sitting on the couch causes shooting pain in your lower back, or that your daily chores are more like an Olympian event than just tasks, then chances are that you are suffering from chronic hip pain and could possibly be in need of a hip replacement.
Signs You May Need a Hip Replacement
Here are some signs that a replacement might be necessary:
1) Ongoing and Significant Pain
Damage to your hip joint can cause chronic pain. If you find that you are heavily reliant on painkillers to get through the day and night or that you find it difficult or uncomfortable to bend over or walk and no amount of rest relieves the pain, or find that you are walking with a limp due to pain, then you should consider consulting with a hip specialist as it may mean you need to have replacement surgery.
2) Finding Routine Tasks Painful
Even if you are able to keep the pain at bay, if you are unable to complete simple tasks like putting on socks and shoes, walking normal distances, and standing on one leg (even with assistance), then you likely have significant hip disability.
3) Stiffness Limits Normal Range of Motion
If you find that you are experiencing joint stiffness to the point where you are unable to bend over, walk, or lift your leg up, then you need to consult with a specialist to discuss the possibility of hip replacement surgery.
4) Conservative Treatments Do Not Relieve Pain
Many people who suffer from this type of pain, especially those with arthritis, do not need surgery immediately and often choose a more conservative type of treatment such as physical therapy, steroid injections, or anti-inflammatory medication. Although these treatments do not cure hip problems, they can help ease the pain in the joints. There will however come a point when these measures are ineffective and surgery may need to be considered.
5) Advanced Arthritis or Considerable Joint Damage
Significant joint damage caused by arthritis or other joint conditions can create inflammation, causing the cartilage to wear away. Without cartilage, there is no cushion between the bones rubbing together and they begin to wear down. Advanced cases of joint damage may make surgery a necessity.
Professional Joint Replacements and Treatments
Life Wilgers Hospital has one of the best orthopaedic departments in South Africa and is known for delivering advanced treatments in respect of joint pains and replacements. Staying abreast of the latest clinical research sets us apart and enables us to give you the advice and treatment you need. Contact us today.