No matter how intense the pain is, when your hip is in a constant state of agony it can still be difficult to decide whether or not it is time to have a hip replacement procedure. Sometimes you may not even be aware that is the absolute right time to have it done. People of all ages may need this type of medical service and it isn’t an issue that should not be taken lightly. Not only can it worsen without the proper treatment, but it ultimately affects your day to day wellbeing.
Any orthopedic surgeon in Green Bay or Appleton will tell a patient that there are certain risks to having total joint replacement surgery done, but under particular circumstances it may be the best option. Ultimately, it’s the patient’s decision. Sometimes a patient won’t even consider it because they believe it’s not necessary despite signs and symptoms. This is a list comprised of common indicators that hip replacement may be an option for you, or at least one to discuss with your orthopedic specialist.
Pain
If you have chronic pain, most likely you are experiencing a condition that needs medical attention. Usually the first signs are swelling and loss of motion in the hip. In addition, the area will feel very tender. Persistent and recurring pain that leads to great discomfort should be carefully examined by your orthopedic specialist. Also, the pain experienced will most likely keep you up at night or begin to worsen during any type of physical activity. Essentially, if hip pain is significantly reducing your quality of life, then it might be time to consider surgical options.
Carefully listening to your body is important. If a patient is experiencing pain in their hip, where else does in the body is feeling discomfort? Sometimes you may have pain in areas that are in close proximity and not even know it. A patient with hip pain that is also experience discomfort in the knee might need to look into getting that treated as well. The two are often connected because the hip can cause pain all throughout the leg.
Mobility
Alongside pain, soreness will have an effect on the way a patient can move around. Not only will the pain make it difficult to engage in simple activities such as walking and climbing stairs, it can be cumbersome just to move from one room into the next. Also, it may be hard to get out of bed. Morning stiffness is common. Sitting for a long period of time experiencing pain is another indicator. If symptoms occur during various types of activity, it will also have a drastic effect on your mood.
Options are not working
Before surgery, there are several remedies a patient should try. Using less invasive treatments may be the right solution, including physical therapy, walking aids, cortisone injections, and joint supplements.
Diagnosis
In order to be properly diagnosed, see your orthopedic surgeon. They will do a careful examination of your hip, conduct physical tests, and order imaging (x-ray or MRI) if necessary. If x-rays are needed, they will show if the hip joint has undergone any change in size or shape due to swelling, fractures, or bone spurs. A patient has to be open and honest about their discomfort when seeking a proper diagnosis. They will have to properly describe their pain and past injuries. Keeping a log of your pain will help to get you the proper treatment.
Take Action
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, and – most importantly – an orthopedic specialist to identify the right procedure for you.
OSI has convenient locations: 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.