Before considering hip replacement surgery, Dr. Grondel will conduct a complete evaluation. Significant improvements in surgical materials and techniques in the past few years have greatly increased the effectiveness & patient satisfaction with this procedure.
Hip Problems include:
- Chronic Pain and disability from Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis – when cartilage wears away causing hip pain and stiffness
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – is an autoimmune disease in which the synovial membrane becomes inflamed, produces too much synovial fluid, and damages the articular cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Traumatic arthritis can follow a serious hip injury or fracture.
- Hip Fracture – can cause a condition known as osteonecrosis. The articular cartilage becomes damaged and, over time, causes hip pain and stiffness.
Can Hip Replacement Surgery Help?
Depending on your situation Dr Grondel might recommend weight loss, anti-inflammatory medication, braces, orthotics, steroid injections, physical therapy, etc. Proper diagnosis will lead to appropriate care and treatment. Hip disorders are degenerative and require treatment to alleviate pain and restore motion
When is Hip Replacement Surgery an Option?
You should start to consider surgery when you have exhausted all other forms of treatment and your pain has started to interfere with everyday activities. In addition to your pain Dr Grondel will be able to tell you if your loss of cartilage is great or if there has been damage done to your bones and joints.
If your hip has been damaged by arthritis, a fracture or other conditions, common activities such as walking or getting in and out of a chair may be painful and difficult. Your hip may be stiff and it may be hard to put on your shoes and socks. You may even feel uncomfortable while resting.
If medications, changes in your everyday activities, and the use of walking aids such as a cane are not helpful, you may want to consider corrective surgery. By replacing your diseased hip joint with an artificial joint, surgery can relieve your pain, increase motion, and help you get back to enjoying normal, everyday activities.
Most people who undergo hip replacement surgery experience a dramatic reduction of hip pain and a significant improvement in their daily activities.