Osteoarthritis of the Hip: Avoiding Hip Replacement

Osteoarthritis of the hip is very common.  The degenerative joint disease occurs when the cartilage of the joint surface (articular cartilage) becomes worn away, exposing the bones.  This is why the condition is often referred to as the “wear and tear” disease, as the friction causes the pain and stiffness that is associated with Osteoarthritis.  Osteoarthritis of the hip can cause you discomfort, and you may lose the ability to rotate, flex, or extend your hip.  Hip replacement surgery for Osteoarthritis of the hip is a common joint replacement surgery, second only to knee replacement surgery; however you may be asking yourself if it is that time for you.  It is a difficult decision to make, and should not be taken lightly.  There are several alternative methods that you may want to explore first.

1. Take a daily Glucosamine supplement.  Glucosamine, when combined with Chondroitin, can reduce joint inflammation and assist достопримечательности Рыбинска in the rehabilitation of damaged and deteriorated joint cartilage.  A high quality liquid formula is preferred, and may be extremely beneficial both before and after a hip replacement surgery.

 

1. Go to a recommended Physical Therapist.  Physical therapy can aid in strengthening the muscles around the hip and can decrease the burden that is placed on the weight bearing joint.  A physical therapist can show you exercises that you can do at home, ways to perform tasks that will be easier for you, and monitor any improvement or decline.

1. Make Lifestyle Changes. Take a proactive approach in eating healthy, maintaining an appropriate weight, and participating in low-impact exercise (such as swimming, yoga, and walking).

 

1. Try Holistic Therapies.  Studies show that holistic therapies, such as acupuncture and hydrotherapy can be beneficial in managing arthritis.

 

Utilizing the different alternative measures available to you, may enable you to buy more time before you have to make the decision to have a hip replacement.  The surgery seems to be highly successful, with few complications; however, the replacement does not last forever.  Many times, if performed early, it will need replaced again.  If you have exhausted all measures, and cannot fulfill an active life, then the surgery may be your most suitable option.