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....