Joint Replacement Surgery Relieves Pain From Arthritis

Hip pain that stems from arthritis usually starts gradually — stiffness when you wake up or a twinge as you climb the stairs. As arthritis breaks down more cartilage, the pain can worsen.

If conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications or injections are no longer working and pain is affecting your quality of life, it might be time to consider a hip replacement.

Here’s what you need to know.

What causes the pain

As the hip’s protective layer wears away, the ball grinds in its socket. Walking and standing up from a seated position can become painful.

How the hip works

The ball-and-socket joint of your hip allows you to keep stable and walk, squat or turn. A layer of cartilage protects both the ball and the socket and helps the joint move smoothly.

A better approach to surgery

While traditional hip replacement cuts through major muscle groups, the anterior-based, muscle-sparing approach is easier on the body. A surgeon makes a small incision at the front of the hip to remove damaged cartilage and place a new artificial joint. Because the incision is small, recovery is faster and pain is often reduced.

What you can expect after hip replacement

After recovering, you can expect to walk, bicycle and swim comfortably. Your doctor may advise you to avoid high-impact activities, such as basketball, jogging and tennis.

Care for hips, knees, shoulders and more

Alexander Nedopil, MD, specializes in the anterior-based, muscle-sparing approach to hip replacements. Plus, with an orthopedic nurse navigator, you have an additional advocate helping you every step of the way. Adventist Health's orthopedic procedures and specialties include:

• Hand surgery

• Hip and knee replacement

• Shoulder surgery

• Sports medicine

• Diagnostic procedures