Hip Replacement: What You Need To Know: Part 2

Hip Replacement: What You Need To Know: Part 2

Make a list of questions to ask your surgeon.  Most of the time, you will already feel overwhelmed from all the helpful advice and information your family and friends are giving you.  When you finally see your surgeon, your head will be spinning.  Take a piece of paper a few days prior to your surgical consult and make a list of questions.  

Many of my patients complain that the doctor hardly spent any time with them during the initial visit and made them feel awkward when they asked questions.  My advice is to not leave his office until you have had your questions answered and are comfortable with your decision, whatever that may be.  Remember, if you have insurance, the surgery costs over twenty thousand dollars, so I think with that amount of money, you can at least have your questions answered and gain some sort of comfort level.  

Some questions may involve potential risks and benefits of the surgery, including long-term outcomes.  Other questions include:
Click HERE...

Hip Replacement: What You Need To Know

Hip Replacement: What You Need To Know

 Upon going to your doctor and hearing that the pain in your hip is due to extensive arthritis, you may be in a position of deciding on having a Total Hip Replacement.  Many times, patients who have heard this from their doctor attempt Physical Therapy before "giving in" to surgery.  They usually all ask the same questions...first one being "how do I know when I need to have the surgery?"  To answer this, I will ask my patient the following....

First, does the hip pain affect your quality of life, limiting daily activities such as walking or bending?  

Is the pain constant no matter what you do?  

Are you unable to lift the affected leg in and out of bed or a car due to pain and stiffness?  

Do anti-inflammatories and physical therapy help reduce your pain?  

Have you had to use a walker or cane due to the pain?  

If the answer is yes to most of these questions, then surgery is probably unavoidable.  

Many times, a patient was referred to Physical Therapy from their Family Physician.  They begin therapy with me, but ask what type of doctor they should see specifically for the hip.  An Orthopedic Surgeon would be the specialist for this surgery.  However, if my patient has other medical conditions such as heart disease, then they should also see their Cardiologist.  But these arrangements will be coordinated by the Orthopedic Surgeon as the surgery date approaches.  

You can also expect to have blood work, a urine test (to check if you have a urinary tract infection and need a Urology consult), and an EKG.  Remember to provide all of your medical providers with a detailed past medical history.  If you do not have high blood pressure because it is being controlled by medication, YOU STILL HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE!  If you are being treated for something with medication, then you have that diagnosis.    

You may be advised to donate your blood just in case there is blood loss during the surgery, requiring you to have a transfusion.  Your doctor may advise you to lose weight before surgery in order to minimize stress on the new hip.  Major dental procedures and cleanings are recommended prior to surgery to minimize the risk of infection following surgery, as bacteria can enter your blood stream during dental work, causing an infection.  

More tips on the Total Hip Replacement to come....

The UBE

The UBE

The UBE, or Upper Body Ergomometer is a great rehab tool for shoulder injuries.  It is similar to a stationary bike, except it is 'pedaled' using your arms instead of your legs.  In the video, you will see the UBE being used in the forward direction.  Many shoulder issues have contributing factors such as poor posture, including rounded shoulders, forward head, and scapuale protraction.  I have found that performing the UBE in the forward direction initially may aggravate the symptoms, as the pushing motion may feed into scapula protraction and forward head posture.  I prefer to begin using the UBE in the retro or reverse direction. Click HERE to read more.....