Factors to consider before you undergo a hip replacement surger

1. Factors to consider before you undergo a hip replacement surgery There are a number of surgeries and lifestyle changes that can address damage to the hip joint, a condition which often causes a lot of pain and mobility issues. Before going through any form of treatment, it is important to understand the reasons for doing it, the success rates as well as risks and complications associated with that form of treatment. While this surgery has become a very common over the years, it is important to understand why your surgeon may recommend it. In many cases, this surgery is considered when other options like physiotherapy, pain medication and lifestyle changes have failed to address the symptoms. Who needs a hip replacement? Not everyone with hip joint pain needs to undergo surgery. However, there may come a time when surgery is the only way to boost your quality of life. your doctor may advice you to undergo surgery if you are having so much pain to an extent that you are unable to perform daily activities like dressing or taking a bath on your own. If the pain in your hip joint is very severe to the point where you rely on medication to get relief, talk to your surgeon immediately regarding the possibility of undergoing surgery. The pain can surface from different areas, sometimes on the hip, other times on your thighs and even the back. Most doctors will recommend physiotherapy and pain killers. If the pain doesn’t subside then they may recommend a partial hip replacement before a total surgery to replace the hip is done. Before surgery is recommended, the doctor will perform a CT scan, MRI or ultrasound to determine how much joint cartilage is lost. If the tests show that there has been an extensive loss of cartilage then there could be a need for surgery. Most candidates of hip replacements are patients suffering from joint pain, stiffness and swelling caused by conditions like arthritis and osteonecrosis. Injury and fractures can also cause damage the hip joint and create a need for surgery. How successful is the surgery? A research that was conducted by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons showed that about 95% of all surgeries done to correct hip joint damage are successful in relieving pain and

2. other symptoms. The longevity of the surgery is boosted by modern materials and techniques used. The implant has a low risk of wearing out or loosening and in case this happens then undergoing revision surgery is possible. Avoiding activities that stress the hip joint can eliminate the need for revision surgery and ensure your new joint stays intact. You’ll also need to follow your doctor’s advice on how to recover after the surgery is done. For instance, you’ll have to do a number of physical therapy exercises and also radiographs at certain intervals as prescribed by your surgeon. How to prepare for surgery It is very important to take any instructions given by your surgeon or nurse regarding the surgery seriously. Playing an active role in preparing for your total knee replacement surgery will help you to get through it successfully. Other than the physical examinations that you will be required to go through prior to surgery. There are many other ways to prepare yourself. First of all, you need to watch your diet because obesity is shown to increase the risk of hip- surgery complications. Losing weight in a good way is helpful before and after the surgery. You also need to stop smoking and get enough rest because it helps to ensure a successful recovery. Discuss all the details with your surgeon including the anesthesia that will be used and any concerns you might have about the surgery. You’ll also need to talk to your physical therapist who is likely to recommend certain types of exercises needed to prepare you for surgery. Exercises that boost your range of motion can help you to minimize stiffness after surgery. Remember that different doctors will have different recommendations on how to prepare for surgery so make sure you do your own research to have a better idea of what works for you.