Are you interested to learn more about causes of, and treatments for, hip-joint conditions? We’ve put together an overview of what’s involved and a list of top facts you should know when considering or recovering from hip and other joint replacements.
Total or partial hip joint replacement involves surgically removing the diseased or damaged ball-and-socket and replacing it with a ceramic or metal ball-and-stem. The stem is inserted into the top of the femur, and an artificial plastic or ceramic cup socket replaces the socket on the pelvis. When the prosthesis into the femur, it is fixed with a special surgical cement. Surgeons can alternatively use a “cementless” prosthesis with microscopic pores that allow the bone to grow into the prosthesis over time.
Usually, hip replacements are performed because of severe arthritis in the hip joint getting progressively worse. The most common type of arthritis leading to total hip replacement is degenerative arthritis, or osteoarthritis, of the hip joint.
This type of arthritis is typically characterized by aging, progressive worsening of the joint, or congenital abnormality. Other causes which can lead to hip replacements include bony fractures of the hip joint and rheumatoid arthritis of the hip bone. Hip bone necrosis can be caused by factors including fracture of the hip and systemic diseases, like some forms of lupus.
Patient education is important to ensure the long health of the new hip. Intense exercises such as running or contact sports are not recommended because these activities can re-injure the replaced hip. Swimming, by comparison, is very helpful for strengthening muscle and promoting mobility.
Patients should be aware, and let caregivers know, that they have an artificial joint. Antibiotics are recommended during invasive procedures, whether surgical, urological, gastroenterological, or dental. Infections elsewhere in the body should also be treated to prevent infection from getting into the joint.
We understand that this all sounds rather complex, so it is important to focus on the fact that hip joint replacement surgery is one of the most successful joint surgeries performed in the US today. What’s more, long-term results have been improving impressively with new devices, techniques, and physiotherapy, such as the care we offer at GreenField Health & Rehabilitation Center. The future will provide even more powerful techniques that will further improve patient outcomes and mobility and lessen the potential for complications.
Joint Replacement Facts
* Marius Smith-Petersen, an American surgeon, made the first arthroplasty mold in 1925. He went on to create the first total hip replacement (THR), made with stainless steel.
* Ongoing pain and impairment of daily function are key reasons for considering hip replacements.
* Physical therapy is an essential part of rehabilitation after a total hip replacement.
Do You Have Questions? Contact The GreenFields Today
GreenField Health & Rehabilitation Center offers a wide range of services in injury prevention, pre-surgical treatment and rehabilitation, all orthopedic injuries (before and after surgical care), joint replacements, arthritis-related conditions, chronic pain management, rehab (stroke and cardiac), outpatient therapy and more.
Contact us to learn how we can help you on your road to recovery.
