After a major trauma in the lower half of the body or wear and tear for elders, a physician may suggest hip replacement. With any kind of surgery, it’s important to think of the outcome and how it could affect one’s life before making a final decision. Also, it’s good to speak with the family about any treatment options that could prove best for the long term. Here are some things to consider before the procedure.
Be Realistic About the Road to Recovery
Extensive recovery may be needed to heal properly. This could take medication, bed rest, and physical therapy for months to regain movement in that region of the body. Additionally, it all depends on the health and persistence of the patient of how fast they recover. The doctor may have to cut through muscle, tissue, and bone matter, which can make for a longer healing process. It’s important that the patient thinks of the mental and physical toll on the body. However, surgery could be a great option for the long haul. Another thing to consider before taking this step is changing one’s lifestyle.
Choose Some Good Lifestyle Changes for Pain Relief
Surgery is not the only option available to relieve pain. In fact, there could be other issues that cause the lower half to feel a certain level of pain, like obesity. The body has more pounds to carry, which adds a level of stress on different joints. Not to mention, it’s harder to get the right blood flow to certain areas of the body. This could make pain more prevalent in the body parts that are most mobile.
A good way to help get this under control is by eating right and exercising. The body will get good nutrients from eating healthy. Regular exercise increases blood flow, endorphins, and can help drop much needed pounds to carry the body better. Make sure to be comfortable with the physician who administers the treatment.
Comfort Is Key in Getting the Right Doctor
It’s important to consider different surgeons to find out how they perform a hip replacement surgery. Don’t be afraid to inquire about different things like what goes on before, during, and after the treatment. Also, find out what type of surgery would be most effective for a particular condition. Being more aware of what goes on not only gets the patient more comfortable, but they can get a feel for their potential surgeon. Good research beforehand can make it easier to narrow down the selection process.
These are a few things to consider before choosing surgery as an option.
Ready to Start?
Request a consultation with one of the hip specialists at the Orthopedic & Sports Institute. Call (920) 560-1000 or request an appointment online. OSI offers anterior, posterior, and robotic surgical options for the treatment of hip pain. Do your homework, talk to friends and family members, neighbors and colleagues to identify the procedure that is right for you.
OSI has convenient locations to serve you. The campus in Appleton includes clinics, a surgery center, MRI, physical therapy, and a skilled nursing facility, as well as a walk-in clinic that provides care for new orthopedic injuries. OSI has outreach clinics in Green Bay, New London, Ripon, Shawano, Waupaca, and the newest location at 600 N. Koeller Street in Oshkosh.
OSI is a proud member of NOVO Health.