When hip pain forces you to change your daily routine, it may be time to consider hip replacement surgery to put debilitating pain behind you.
Hip replacement surgery can take away the frustration of not being able to walk comfortably, stand up, get up the stairs and sleep restfully.
“There’s no reason to let pain take over your life when a hip replacement is an option,” says Daniel Valaik, M.D., a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with Riverside Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists. “Especially with our minimally invasive approach, also known as posterior hip replacement, patients are back to doing what they enjoy in a matter of weeks.”
Are you a good candidate for hip replacement surgery?
Surgeons perform hip replacement surgery most often to repair damage from arthritis.
"Normally, cartilage covers the ball and socket of the hip joint, providing a cushion and smooth surface for movement," says Dr. Valaik. "With arthritis, cartilage can become frayed and eventually wear away leaving bone to rub against bone. When that happens, joints feel stiff and ache."
If lifestyle changes and medications have not provided the relief you need, you may want to consider hip replacement surgery if your pain:
- Affects being able to go up or down stairs
- Continues even with pain medication
- Gets worse when walking even with the support of a cane or walker
- Interferes with sleep
- Makes it difficult to get up after sitting down
How do I prepare for hip replacement?
Your Riverside orthopedic surgeon and staff will be happy to explain the hip replacement procedure, the type of device being implanted, pain management expectations and type of home assistance required. Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Before your surgery, you will be able to attend an education program to understand all aspects of preparing for your operation, surgery and recovery. Joint University is a two-hour program designed to help you prepare for a safe and successful recovery and rehabilitation to meet your goal of getting back to an active life without pain.
When will I feel better?
“Many patients notice a substantial improvement in hip pain within weeks of the surgery,” says Dr. Valaik. “Physical therapy helps with the healing process and teaches patients how to adjust to their new hip after surgery. Most patients can return to their normal activities about six weeks after surgery.”
Whether you’re looking to get back in the game or just back to normal, your return to everyday life is our top priority. Call us today at 757-534-9988 so we can develop your pain free game plan together.
