Is a total hip replacement
right for you?
By ShareMD Connect
While many people suffer from hip pain, not everyone is a good candidate for hip replacement surgery.
Total hip replacement (THR) is one of the most successful surgeries in the medical world. Approximately 500,000 THRs are performed each year in the United States alone; this rate is only expected to increase. The satisfaction rates of patients who have undergone a THR speak for themselves:
- Ninety-one percent (91%) of patients with moderate pain before their first surgery reported mild or no pain after five years.
- Eighty-nine percent (89%) of patients with severe pain before their first surgery reported mild or no pain after five years.
Several studies have looked at the long-term results of hip replacements and found that up to 94% of hip implants last greater than 15 years. And these study results are mostly based on older forms of hip joint devices - newer devices will most likely provide longer-term results, but that data is still being collected and studied.
THR surgery is usually reserved as a last-resort treatment when nonsurgical treatments have failed to provide relief, and has an estimated recovery period of three to four months.
However, understanding that this routine procedure can greatly improve your quality of life is important. Many patients consider it worthwhile for the 20 years of improvement and pain relief that it provides.
So how do you know if hip replacement surgery is right for you?
When Conservative Treatments Aren’t Cutting It
Before seeking any surgery, it’s worthwhile to try more conservative treatments first. Physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and mobility-assistive devices like canes, wheelchairs, and walkers are all things to discuss trying with your doctor first. However, if none of these options provide you with satisfactory results, your provider might want you to consider surgery.
You’re Experiencing Everyday Pain
When pain is a big part of everyday living, it isn't easy to enjoy life as you once did. Constant pain can significantly impact your mood, making you feel depressed, anxious, and irritable. If your quality of life is suffering, hip replacement surgery may offer you the relief you need.
When Not Even Resting Is Helpful
Hip pain usually flares up when irritated by movement but can often be eased by resting. However, surgery might be the next step if hip pain is affecting you even when you’re at rest.
When It Becomes Impossible To Lift Or Move Your Leg
It’s not just pain that can affect movement if you are experiencing stiffness in your hip that makes it impossible to lift or move your leg, hip replacement surgery could be your best option.
When Your Hip Is Getting Worse By The Day
A damaged or deformed hip joint will often deteriorate, becoming worse—and more painful—over time. Conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis also can cause severe pain and damage. A comprehensive assessment with an orthopedic surgeon will tell you if the joint is damaged or deformed. A hip replacement can slow or even stop degeneration, helping you return to some semblance of normal.
When Relief Is Only Temporary
If conservative treatment options only temporarily relieve hip pain, it may be time to consider surgery.
If you are dealing with chronic hip pain that affects your daily life, consider scheduling an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon who can evaluate you to see if this life-changing procedure can help you. Still not sure if you’re a candidate for hip replacement surgery? Take our quiz to find out now.