Have you ever wondered if the best answer to your ongoing hip pain is a replacement surgery? If you find other treatments aren’t working, it might be time to seek advice on whether you’d be a good candidate for hip replacement
Dustin Bechtold, MD, joint replacement surgeon with Avera Orthopedics in Sioux Falls, SD, and Marshall, MN, answers frequently asked questions when patients are considering hip replacement surgery.
If your hip is bothering you, one of the first things an orthopedic specialist can do is pinpoint the root cause. Pain could be coming from the hip joint itself, but also from other sources including the tailbone, tissues outside the hip or even from a problem in the back.
“If someone is having pain in the hip region, we first need to diagnose if it’s coming from the hip joint itself or another area,” said Bechtold. “Then we can start a treatment plan.”
What other options should my doctor and I consider before a hip replacement surgery?
Typically, nonsurgical options are explored before turning to surgery:
- Oral pain medications to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Physical therapy to address joint weakness, tight tissues or instability
- Cortisone shots can sometimes help in diagnosis and offer longer-term pain relief
Read more: Nonsurgical options for joint pain
What symptoms indicate a hip replacement might be best?
The symptoms and their severity often indicate that hip replacement might be the best treatment when nonsurgical options haven’t worked. These symptoms include:
- Hip pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Pain in the groin, buttocks, thigh and sometimes even the knee
If symptoms interfere with your quality of life, work and hobbies, that’s an indication surgical treatment may be necessary.
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Avera Orthopedics clinics are across the region and specialists travel to many more communities every month.
What are things people worry about when considering a hip replacement?
Hip replacement is a major surgery on a major joint, so concerns are natural. According to Bechtold, patients are usually concerned about one of the following:
- Normalcy – “Patients worry that a hip replacement won’t achieve the desired outcome,” said Bechtold, “that they won’t feel or get back to normal.” He assures that hip replacement is one of the most predictable joint replacement surgeries — and patients often wish they’d done it sooner.
- Infection – Infection is possible with any surgery, but the risk is generally low. It increases if you smoke, are obese, or have poorly controlled diabetes or any other autoimmune health issue.
- Dislocation – It’s rare for the new ball to pop out of the socket. Nerve or muscle problems, extreme hip movements, twisting falls or improper implant placement can all contribute to dislocation.
Recovery – If you have a sedentary job, you can return a few weeks after the surgery. A more labor-intensive job may take six to eight weeks before going back.
“After a hip replacement surgery, you can look forward to returning to the things that are important to you,” said Bechtold. “You’ll be able to enjoy life with less pain, higher mobility and better functionality.”
What happens once I decide to do the joint surgery?
If you decide to move forward, you and your orthopedic surgeon will set a surgery date. During the waiting period:
- The surgeon’s office will set up a visit with your primary care provider who will make sure you’re in good enough health to undergo surgery
- There will be confirmation of coverage with your health insurance provider
- Make sure to get good nutrition and stop smoking if needed
- Arrange to have a driver to and from surgery
- Notify your workplace and prepare your home (meal prepping and scheduling friends and family to help with chores)
Hip replacement surgery is now commonly a same-day surgery, but in some cases, patients do need to spend the night in the hospital. Your recovery team will help set up follow-up appointments as well as teach you exercises to improve your balance and walking.
Why choose Avera for a hip replacement?
Avera Orthopedic surgeons are board-certified and well-trained in joint replacement surgeries. This expertise and training ensure they use best practices to minimize complications and maximize outcomes after surgery.
This is complemented with the latest technology to help the surgeon create a surgical plan that’s best for you. Some options use specialized approaches or incisions and can be guided by robotic technology. The goals are to be tissue friendly, reduce pain and promote a quicker recovery.
“Our teams are dedicated to a great outcome — and you’re part of that team,” said Bechtold. “Your engagement is crucial. Making healthy choices before and after surgery and following instructions after surgery are all steps you can take to support your recovery and your new joint beyond our care.”
