Are You a Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip pain can significantly impact daily life, making simple tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of bed a challenge. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, hip replacement surgery may be an option. But how do you know if you're a candidate for the procedure? Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms that indicate the need for hip replacement, recovery expectations, and alternative treatments available at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics in Clifton, Jersey City, West Orange, and Edison, New Jersey. 

Symptoms That Indicate the Need for Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals suffering from severe hip pain and mobility issues due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, or avascular necrosis. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent hip pain that affects daily activities and quality of life

• Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the hip joint

• Pain that continues despite medications, physical therapy, or injections

• Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs

• Pain that worsens at night or during rest

If these symptoms significantly interfere with your ability to function, it may be time to consider hip replacement surgery.

Recovery Time After Hip Replacement Surgery

Recovery from hip replacement surgery varies depending on factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation. Typically:

• Outpatient vs Hospital: All cases performed by the physicians of Garden State Pain and Orthopedics at Clifton Surgery Center are performed on an outpatient basis. 

• Initial Mobility: Patients begin walking with assistance the day of surgery for the best results.

• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation begins immediately and continues for several weeks to restore strength and mobility. Patients begin therapy an hour after surgery, and usually have at home physical therapy for 2 weeks following surgery. Then continue therapy in a facility. 

• Return to Normal Activities: Many patients resume daily activities within 6-12 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 6 months.

Alternatives to Hip Replacement Surgery

Most patients at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics are treated conservatively before moving forward with surgery. For those who are not yet ready for surgery or prefer non-surgical interventions, several treatment options are available:

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises can improve joint stability and flexibility.

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections can help manage pain and inflammation.

• Regenerative Medicine: Treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy may promote healing and delay surgery.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, low-impact exercise, and assistive devices can reduce strain on the hip joint. 

Consult with Experts at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics

If you’re experiencing chronic hip pain and wondering whether surgery is the right choice, the specialists at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics can help. Our team offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans, including both surgical and non-surgical options, to help you regain mobility and live pain-free.

Schedule a consultation with our Orthopedic Specialist, Dr. Deepan Patel, by selecting the "Book Now" button.