Also referred to as ‘arthroplasty’, hip replacement is a popular clinical intervention which helps in removing and replacing the diseased hip joint with an artificial joint. Artificial components used for performing the procedure are known as a prosthesis. Main objective of a hip replacement surgery is to increase patient’s mobility, improve range of motion and relieve the hip joint pain. Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are considered to be the most suitable candidates for undergoing this joint surgery. Hip replacement surgery cost depends on the type of prosthesis and facilities of medical care center.



Taking Care of Newly Placed Hip Joint Following Hip Replacement Surgery

The following are some important safeguard measures that can help improve hip stability and comfort.

• Using Walker or Cane - Hip dislocation is the biggest risk associated with a hip replacement procedure. Patients need to be careful while walking or climbing stairs. A walker or cane can serve the purpose of a patient who has recently undergone a hip replacement surgery. It can help prevent the patients from falling or getting injured by supporting the body.

• Treating Hip Pain - It is essential for a patient to take medications for getting sufficient pain relief. Constant hip pain can deteriorate quality of patient’s life and make it difficult for them to participate in rehabilitation programs. Patients should consult respective orthopedic surgeons for learning pain management and maximizing the efficiency of new hip joint.

• Advanced Planning - Patients should plan the day in advance to reduce the number of trips in and out of car or up and down stairs. It can help reduce the probability of joint injury and falls. In addition to this, they should keep important stuff at correct places where it is easily accessible.

• Physical Therapy - Patients should follow all the instructions of physical therapists while performing exercises and daily routine activities. Physical therapy can significantly help improve blood circulation in legs as well as hip area. It has been observed that patients who follow physical therapy regimen are more likely to heal faster as compared to others.

• Movement Restrictions - Patients will need to follow certain movement restrictions to avoid post-surgical complications. Patients should not bend their hips more than 90 degrees and should avoid reaching out to the floor for picking up something. Following such simple measures will minimize the possibility of instability of hip joint.

• Proper Rest - Patients should maintain the correct balance between exercises and rest. They may get tempted to perform exercises more than required for a quick recovery. However, patients need to understand that overdoing physical therapy may affect the hip joint negatively.

• Long-Term Care - Patients should meet the orthopedic doctors at regular interval of time. Timely check-ups will help the doctors to understand patient’s overall condition. Artificial joints are durable and can serve for a long period of time. However, patients will require a revision hip replacement surgery after 15 – 20 years of previous surgery.

In addition to these steps, patients must also eat a balanced diet containing fresh fruits and vegetables. They should avoid drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes during the healing phase. It will definitely aid a speedy and smooth recovery.