Hip Replacement: Easing The Pain Of Osteoarthritis Patients

By Author: Sienna Christie
Total Articles: 1
Comment this article

Osteoarthritis is the progressive degradation of the joints. This is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that comes between the bones in the joints. Without cartilage to separate them, the bones rub against each other causing wear in the joint tissues and chronic, debilitating pain. Osteoarthritis is often diagnosed among the elderly though it is not uncommon among younger adults.

Hip replacement is a surgical procedure where the hip joint is replaced by a prosthetic implant. This procedure is performed to alleviate arthritic pain and to fix severely damaged joints. It involves replacing the upper end of the thighbone with a metal ball and resurfacing the hip socket in the pelvic bone with metal and plastic components. In most cases, it takes approximately six months for a patient to recover from a hip replacement surgery.

Arthritic pain can be alleviated with medication, physical therapy, exercise, and weight management. Joint injections, osteotomy (the surgical adjustment of the bone) or arthroscopic surgery can also be considered for more advanced cases. But if the patient still experiences severe pain ...
... after all these options have been exhausted, then it’s time to consider hip replacement surgery as a final resort.

The procedure for total hip replacement Miami orthopedic surgeons offer can save a patient from continually suffering from the excruciating pain of osteoarthritis. Pain delays the healing process of any type of medical condition, as it causes a lot of stress to the patient. Hip replacement surgery can immobilize a person for a few months, but the benefit it provides can compensate for the inconveniences and risks associated with the procedure.

Hip replacement surgery can also improve the quality of life of a patient. Osteoarthritis, when left untreated, can hinder a person’s ability to perform daily tasks. These activities range from basic movements like getting up from a chair and walking down the stairs to recreational endeavors such as travel and shopping. The hip replacement Miami osteoarthritis patients undergo can result to a more normal and enjoyable life.

Before deciding on hip replacement surgery, make sure that you have been evaluated by at least three physicians. Three opinions can give you a clear assessment of your bone health while considering your age and the extent of your injury. For more information on hip replacement surgery, you can visit arthritis.webmd.com and orthopedics.about.com. If you would like to locate an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in hip replacement Fort Lauderdale patients can trust, you can go to bonesmart.org to look for a clinic in your area.