Should I have hip replacement surgery?Introduction
This information will help you understand your choices,
whether you share in the decision-making process or rely on your doctor's
recommendation. Key points in making your decision You may be
considering hip replacement surgery if
osteoarthritis causes severe hip pain and loss of
function. The decision you and your doctor make depends on variables such as
your age, health, and activity level, and the degree of pain and disability you
are experiencing. Consider the following when making your decision: - You can usually manage osteoarthritis pain
with medication, exercise, physical therapy, and weight loss (if you are
overweight). If these treatments do not relieve pain, other options include
joint injections, arthroscopic surgery, and osteotomy. In the most severe
cases, surgery to replace the joint is an option.
- Most people have
joint replacement only when they can no longer control the pain in their hip
with medication and other treatments and the pain is significantly interfering
with their life.
- People who have had hip replacement surgery
usually have much less pain than before the surgery, are able to resume daily
activities, and have improved quality of life.1 A
review of studies of people who have had their hips replaced reported that more
than 70% have good to excellent function and relief of pain, extending at least
10 years after surgery.2
- Most artificial
hip joints will last for 10 to 20 years or longer without loosening, depending
on how much stress you put on the joint, how much you weigh, and how well your
new joint and bones mend.
© 1995-2009, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
|
|
