How to Heal your Hip - Hip Replacement Surgery and Alternative Treatments

Hip replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a procedure in which a damaged or worn hip joint is replaced with a prosthetic implant. The procedure is typically used to alleviate hip pain and improve mobility in patients with hip arthritis, a degenerative condition that causes inflammation and deterioration of the hip joint.

What happens in a hip replacement?

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, where the "ball" is the top of the thigh bone (femur) and the "socket" is a cup-shaped bone in the pelvis called the acetabulum. In a hip replacement surgery, the damaged or worn ball is removed and replaced with a metal or ceramic prosthetic, and the socket may also be replaced with a plastic or metal implant.

There are two main types of hip replacement surgery: total hip replacement and partial hip replacement. In a total hip replacement, both the ball and socket are replaced, while in a partial hip replacement, only the ball is replaced. The type of surgery performed will depend on the extent of damage to the hip joint and the patient's individual needs.

When should I consider hip replacement surgery? 

Hip replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe hip pain or stiffness that is not alleviated by other treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. Surgery is recommended for patients who have difficulty walking or performing daily activities due to hip pain.

How long does it take to recover from hip replacement surgery?

The surgery is typically done under general anesthesia and takes about two to three hours. Recovery time can vary, but most patients are able to return to normal activities within several months. Physical therapy is recommended following surgery to help patients regain strength and mobility after surgery.

The success rate for hip replacement surgery is high, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved mobility after the procedure. It's important for patients to discuss the risks and potential benefits of hip replacement surgery with their doctor before deciding to have the procedure. 

Hip replacement surgery is a highly effective treatment for patients with severe hip pain and limited mobility due to hip arthritis or other conditions. With proper care and rehabilitation, most patients are able to return to normal activities and enjoy a significant improvement in their quality of life.

What are some alternatives to hip replacement surgery? 

It's important to note that hip replacement surgery is not the only option for people with hip pain. More moderate modalities such as physical therapy, injections, medication, and assistive devices may be effective in managing symptoms and slowing the progression of hip pain. Surgery should only be considered after trying other less invasive options and if the patient's quality of life is severely impacted by the hip pain.

At Garden State Pain and Orthopedics we offer a variety of minimally invasive treatments that can reduce or eliminate pain potentially allowing you to avoid surgery altogether. We focus on providing personalized treatment plans that best fit your needs and allow your body to recover in the most efficient, pain-free way possible. 

Hip replacement surgery is a highly effective treatment option for patients with severe hip pain and limited mobility due to hip arthritis or other conditions. The procedure has a high success rate and can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. However, it's important to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery with your doctor and consider all the available treatment options before making a decision. For more information about our treatment options, visit our Publications & Articles page and our Services page to read about our minimally invasive treatments options.