Do All Arthritis Patients Need A Total Hip Replacement? Exploring Your Options

Finding Ways To Fix Hip Pain

Hip arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the hip joint cartilage is damaged. Hip arthritis causes pain and stiffness upon movement, especially in severe cases where a total hip replacement may be needed. Patients suffering from hip arthritis have a wide range of treatment options. The management is based on the severity of the pain and the impact on daily life activities.

Exploring your treatment options

Managing hip arthritis is based on many factors, such as overall health and severity of the condition. There are various conservative options available such as physical exercises, making lifestyle changes, medications, assisted devices, and alternative therapies. When non-surgical options fail to work, doctors turn to surgeries such as total hip replacement.

Solving your symptoms with exercise

Physical exercises and stretches help to relieve symptoms and improve mobility and strength. Managing weight is essential and exercise can help. An obese or overweight person can put stress on the hip joint and worsen the condition. Try doing low-impact exercises such as tai-chi, yoga, walking, or swimming. If unsure about an activity, ask the doctor for advice.

Adjusting to a healthy lifestyle

Hip arthritis can also impact a person’s mental health therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle is vital. In addition to physical activity, make healthy choices such as getting enough rest, avoiding harmful substances, and eating healthy food. Find ways to cope with stress such as meditation or listening to music. Get involved socially with friends and family or even support groups if necessary.

Turning to medications and injections

Sometimes trying to fix hip pain naturally does not always work and medications are needed. In mild arthritis, over-the-counter medications are suggested to relieve symptoms. The most commonly used are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. In moderate to severe cases, stronger medications are required which need to be prescribed by the doctor. Steroid injections are also an option for severe arthritis.

Considering alternative therapies

Some patients opt for alternative treatment options and experience an improvement. Acupuncture, heating pads, topical ointments, and cognitive behavioral therapy are some therapies that may have helped patients with arthritis. Before trying out these options, consult the doctor.

Making use of assisted devices

The doctor or physical therapist will guide the patient in choosing the right assisted device. The common ones are canes or walking frames. Assisted devices give support and help to prevent stress on the hips. Using a walking cane or frame helps to maintain balance and avoid fall injuries.

The last option, surgery

Hip surgery is the last choice of treatment and there are various types. Total hip replacement, hip resurfacing, and osteotomy are available options for hip arthritis. Not all patients require a total hip replacement. Total hip replacement is reserved for those with failed conservative treatment or those with severe arthritis that impacts daily activities.

Visiting the doctor for treatment

Once diagnosed with hip arthritis, speak to the doctor about possible treatment options including total hip replacement. The healthcare specialist will provide suggestions based on the severity and overall health of the patient. If the suggested treatment option does not work, make an appointment with the doctor to explore alternative options. The doctor will work with the patient and advice the best treatment to live a pain-free life.