Hip replacements are a common treatment solution for those dealing with daily joint pain. There are many myths surrounding hip replacement. Below, four of these myths are debunked so you can make the best decision.
Myth #1: Hip Replacement is an Option Only for Those Over 60 Years of Age
If you suffer from chronic hip pain, you understand just how debilitating it can be. No matter your age, hip pain can limit you from performing everyday tasks and lower your quality of life.
While hip replacements are more common in the over-60 age group, it is no longer unheard of for total hip replacements to be performed on those who are younger. If you're suffering from daily pain and all other treatment avenues have been explored, many orthopedic surgeons will now consider total hip replacements, even if you're under 60. While you will more than likely require another replacement down the road, a good orthopedic surgeon will take the time to help you understand that that is a risk worth taking.
Myth #2: After a Replacement, You Will No Longer Be Able to Live an Active Lifestyle
For many individuals undergoing hip replacement, their daily pain already limits the amount of activity they can perform. Hip replacements are one way to get active again.
After surgery, activity is actually encouraged. There are many low-impact activities that one can enjoy, such as water aerobics and cycling. Before ruling out any of your favorite activities, speak with your surgeon. They can best tell you which activities to avoid and how to modify other activities so as to have as little impact as possible on your implants.
Myth #3: The Pain Experienced During Recovery Just Isn't Worth It
If you're living with chronic pain, you have nothing to lose when it comes to getting a joint replacement surgery. While recovery is never comfortable, for most individuals, it is tolerable and even preferred over the pain they've been suffering on a daily basis.
Three to six weeks is the usual recovery time required before resuming many daily activities; although, the more basic ones, such as self care, can usually be resumed as soon as a a few days following surgery. For most individuals, this is a matter of precaution, not due to unbearable pain levels.
Myth #4: You'll Require Another Replacement In Your Lifetime, So You Should Wait
As mentioned above, many younger patients who undergo total hip replacements will require another replacement surgery down the road. This dissuades many from seeing replacement as an option.
The truth is, while another replacement is more likely the younger you are, it will usually be 20 years or more from your first replacement surgery. As technology continues to improve, so does the lifespan of a total replacement. Better implant materials and more skilled surgeon techniques can mean that putting off that hip replacement until you're older doesn't make sense.
If you're considering undergoing hip replacement surgery, take the time to speak with an orthopedic surgeon, such as Jon B. Greenfield MD, about your concerns. Many of your concerns may actually be grounded in myth, and a good surgeon will take the time to help you consider all options available to you.
Share3 April 2015
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