Hip replacements (hip arthroplasty) can be a very effective treatment option for patients who are experiencing serious hip pain and limited mobility. Most orthopedic specialists will only consider hip replacement when nonsurgical or minimally invasive treatments are no longer an option. At California Orthopedics & Spine, hip replacements are just one of the many treatment options we offer for hip problems. Your orthopedic specialist will go over all your treatment options with you when you come in for a consultation appointment at our office in Novato or Larkspur, CA. Whether you need a total hip replacement (THR) or another procedure, our specialists well help you through your entire treatment process.
Hip Pain Causes
The hips are some of the most versatile joints in the body. They carry the weight of most of your body while also allowing for fluid movement in virtually any direction. The reason hips have such a wide range of motion is that they are ball and socket joints lined with smooth cartilage that cushions the bones and reduces friction.
Hip pain can develop for several reasons. Sometimes overuse leads to pain, but usually, rest and over-the-counter medications can help this type of pain. When the cartilage lining the joint starts to become worn down, it can cause pain and limited mobility. Arthritis is associated with this breakdown of cartilage, which often requires surgery for treatment. Hip injuries can also cause pain that requires a partial or total hip replacement for treatment.
Partial and Full Hip Replacement
Depending on your condition, your surgeon may recommend a partial or a full hip replacement. If you experienced an injury that only affected half of your hip joint, partial hip replacement might be right for you. If you are experiencing arthritis pain or other problems, it’s likely that your entire joint is affected, and you may need a total hip replacement. Thanks to advances in orthopedic surgery, some patients can undergo a minimally invasive hip replacement, minimizing post-surgical discomfort and the time it takes to heal following surgery.
During a partial hip replacement, your surgeon will only replace the ball of the socket, which is attached to the femur bone. A full replacement means the ball and the actual socket will both be replaced with prosthetic implants. Most implants are made of a hard metal or ceramic with a smooth liner on the inner part of the socket. This lining functions just like the cartilage in your hip would, allowing you to move your hip freely without discomfort. The way your surgeon approaches your hip will largely depend on your specific situation, and your surgeon will discuss your treatment plan after reviewing your condition during a consultation appointment.
Regardless of which procedure is right for you, your surgery will be combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy, to ensure that your rehabilitation is a success. Recovery is an important part of any surgery, and hip replacement is no exception. Usually, patients can start walking unassisted between one and two months after surgery, but walking with a walker is recommended as soon as the first day following the procedure. After three months, you may return to more intense physical activity, though your doctor may recommend avoiding high-impact exercise for longer. Our specialists understand that patients want to return to their normal lives as soon as possible, and we are here to support you throughout the entire process.
Hip Replacement in Marin County, CA
Hip replacements are a life-changing procedure for patients with chronic hip pain. At California Orthopedics & Spine, our orthopedic specialists have years of experience diagnosing and treating hip pain. To find out if surgery is right for you, contact our office for a consultation. One of our staff members will be happy to assist you.