How to Spot Common Signs That You Need a Hip Replacement

Hip pain can be debilitating. It can affect your daily life, work, and hobbies. You may have tried over-the-counter pain medications or physical therapy with no success. It could be time to look into hip replacement surgery. Luckily, there are several common signs that indicate you may need a hip replacement. In this blog post, we'll dive into those signs and what you can expect from a hip replacement surgery. If you're in Debary, FL, and looking for a trustworthy orthopedic surgeon, reach out to the Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute for more information.

1. Pain and stiffness

The most common sign of hip replacement is persistent pain and stiffness in the hip area. If you feel that your hip pain is increasing and affecting your daily activities, it may be time for a hip replacement. Your hip may also feel stiff, limiting your range of motion, and making it harder to move freely.

2. Loss of mobility

One of the main goals of hip replacement surgery is to increase your mobility. If you notice a decrease in your mobility, including limping or difficulty standing up from a sitting position, it could be an indication that you need a hip replacement.

3. Bone-on-bone

Hip replacement surgery is considered when there’s little to no cartilage covering the hip, which results in an exposed bone. This condition is known as bone-on-bone and can cause intense pain and discomfort. Your orthopedic surgeon can help diagnose and evaluate the extent of the bone-on-bone condition in your hip.

4. Limited Daily Activities

If you find it hard to perform daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, hip replacement might be the solution you are looking for. It's crucial to mention this struggle to your orthopedic surgeon, so they can determine the best path forward.

5. Conservative treatments fail

While conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medication can help temporarily, if you find no relief and it’s beginning to impact your daily life, it may be time to consider a hip replacement. Your doctor might recommend further testing, such as X-rays and MRI, to evaluate the extent of damage. Based on the results, your orthopedic surgeon can recommend the best course of action.

 

Conclusion

Hip replacement surgery can be life-changing by reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and improving your overall quality of life. If you identify with one or more of the common signs regarding the need for Hip Replacement, it’s time to reach out to an orthopedic surgeon for a proper evaluation. At Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute, we specialize in providing excellent orthopedic care for our patients. So, if you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Debary, FL, contact us today to schedule an appointment.