Has your hip been bothering you for a while? Does it limit your ability to move well? Maybe it's time to consider a hip replacement. It's one of the most common orthopedic surgeries among patients older than 50 and is typically performed due to arthritis or hip injuries.
"The distinct advantages of hip replacement surgery include less damage to major muscles, reduction in pain, improved outcomes and a better quality of life," said Bertrand Kaper, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at HonorHealth.
Not everyone is a candidate for a hip replacement, so it's important to talk to your doctor to find out what treatment is best for you.
Common signs you may need a hip replacement include:
- Pain: "Patients with an arthritic hip mostly experience pain in the groin area," said Dr. Kaper. Pain in the groin is often a sign of hip damage, though tendonitis or a pinched nerve are other possibilities.
Back, knee and leg pain are also common symptoms. "The location of this pain can sometimes be harder to diagnose and manage appropriately," Dr. Kaper said. - Stiffness: Stiffness in your hip, along with a decreased range of motion, can be signs of a functional disability.
- Inability to bear weight: It's hard for you to put weight on the hip that's bothering you.
- Daily activities are becoming difficult: If pain is interfering with your basic ability to function or move freely, or your pain is progressing over time, it might be worth considering a hip replacement.
- Pain while sleeping: "If you're experiencing pain at rest, or if it's waking you up at night and doesn't improve or go away with over-the-counter medication, it may be time to speak to a specialist," said Dr. Kaper.
- Reliance upon support mechanisms: If you need a cane, walker or wheelchair, or you can't take care of yourself independently, you may be a candidate for a hip replacement.
- Other treatment options aren't working: Many patients who choose a hip replacement have suffered for a long time and aren't finding relief with medication, steroid injections or physical therapy.
"Most aren't quite ready to give up that freedom because they ultimately want to get back to doing the things they love most, like playing golf or keeping up with their grandchildren," said Dr. Kaper. "There are no restrictions on low-impact activities following hip replacement surgery."Dr. Kaper also noted that prosthetic joints used today are durable and have a long lifespan.
Knowing you're ready
Ultimately, you should talk with your doctor to see if hip replacement surgery is the right option for you. "Just because you're having a conversation about hip replacement doesn't mean you'll need surgery," Dr. Kaper said.