If you’re experiencing hip pain due to injury, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or osteonecrosis, you may be wondering if the pain will go away on its own or if hip replacement surgery is needed. Hip replacement surgery is a major procedure; however, our team at Granite Orthopaedics provides minimally invasive procedures to repair or replace the hip joint and help our patients move comfortably again.
A consultation can provide the most accurate answer on whether hip replacement surgery is needed, but the following are some of the most common indicators.
Signs You Need Hip Replacement Surgery
Some possible indications that you need a hip replacement include:
- Limping
- Pain during movement or lifting
- Swelling or stiffness in your hip
- Muscle weakness
If these symptoms do not subside with the proper rest, that’s one of the biggest indicators that hip replacement surgery may be needed. Be sure to visit a doctor right away for a proper diagnosis.
You may also need a hip replacement if you have arthritis that’s affecting the hip, as the pain will likely continue to worsen.
Are There Alternatives to Hip Replacement Surgery?
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy may reduce symptoms of hip pain and slow the progression of hip osteoarthritis. We follow an evidence-based approach that helps patients target their symptoms while building muscle strength and preserving mobility and function.
Pain Relieving Medications
Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can effectively reduce the pain patients experience with hip arthritis. Medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are most commonly recommended. Be sure to speak with your doctor before starting any medications.
While these solutions can relieve some symptoms of hip pain, hip replacement surgery may still be necessary.
Schedule a Consultation With Granite Orthopaedics Today
Granite Orthopaedics provides supportive care to athletes and adult patients in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Flagstaff, and Sedona, AZ. We offer both anterior hip replacement and total hip replacement surgery to help restore our patient’s quality of life.
If you would like to discuss your hip procedure options with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons, you can schedule an appointment at (928) 777-9950 or submit a contact form.
