When is it Time to Consider a Hip Replacement?

Do you have ongoing hip problems? When your hip joint develops nonstop pain or stiffness, and the simple task of walking feels like a full workout, it might be time for a hip replacement. Here’s how you know it’s time to consider replacing a joint.

About 10% of the general population experiences hip pain, and that percentage increases with age. While hip replacement surgery sounds intense, it is actually one of the most common surgeries. Your surgeon swaps out a worn hip joint and replaces it with new artificial materials that are long-lasting and ease ongoing discomfort, so you can move around without wincing.

See Dr. Kevin O’Donnell at Revitalize Regenerative Orthopedics LLC, conveniently located in the Denver metropolitan area, to find out if it’s time for you to consider a hip replacement.

Signs of a hip wear-and-tear

Here are some signs of a hip problem that may eventually require surgery:

Persistent or severe hip pain
Reduced mobility
Pain with movement or activity
Stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Worsening discomfort
Difficulty walking
Limping
Grinding our crunching sounds within your hip joint

If your symptoms don’t go away over time, or even become more severe, see Dr. O’Donnell for an evaluation — especially if you’re an older adult.

When it may be time for a hip replacement

The following concerns could indicate it’s time for a hip replacement:

1. Conservative treatments haven’t worked

Dr. O’Donnell offers an array of regenerative treatments that can repair tissues in your hip joint to restore mobility and ease your pain. Examples include focused shockwave therapy, radial shockwave therapy (EPAT®), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), physical therapy, massage, stem cell therapy, prolotherapy, and joint injections. You might also take medications.

But if conservative treatments haven’t worked and your discomfort is debilitating, it might be time for a hip replacement surgery.

2. You have a chronic disease or severe injury

If you’ve been diagnosed with a chronic condition affecting your hip joint, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, a fracture, or a tumor — and other treatments haven’t eased your pain — a hip replacement might be the right next step.

3. Your mobility is affected

If your hip injury or pain worsens with walking, despite using a walker or cane, and negatively affects your mobility and quality of life, surgery may be a good option for you. This is particularly true if your condition prevents you from being able to walk up or down stairs, stand up from a seated position, or exercise regularly — despite trying other treatment modalities.

4. Hip pain affects your sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep is critical to maintaining optimal health, wellness, quality of life, and overall well-being. If a hip injury or discomfort prevents you from sleeping soundly, ask Dr. O’Donnell if you’re a candidate for a hip replacement surgery.

5. It’s difficult to complete activities of daily living

If a hip problem negatively affects your ability to participate in activities of daily living, such as getting dressed, taking a bath, cooking, doing laundry and other chores, or participating in the activities you love, consider hip replacement surgery. It can dramatically transform your life.

To find out if you’re a candidate for hip replacement surgery, contact us at Revitalize Regenerative Orthopedics LLC by calling the office or requesting a visit online today.