Who is a candidate for hip replacement surgery?
- Severe hip pain that affects daily activities: This pain may be constant or come and go, and it may be worse with certain activities, such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs.
- Stiffness in the hip: This can make it difficult to move the hip in certain directions, and it may also cause pain.
- Limited range of motion in the hip: This may make it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as getting dressed or bathing.
- Hip joint damage that is not responding to other treatments: This may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections.
- A person's age, overall health, and activity level are also considered when determining if they are a candidate for hip replacement surgery.
Some specific conditions that may lead to the need for hip replacement surgery include:
- Osteoarthritis: This is the most common cause of hip pain and stiffness, and it occurs when the cartilage that cushions the hip joint wears away.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect the joints, including the hip joint.
- Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint is not formed properly, which can lead to early wear and tear.
- Avascular necrosis: This is a condition in which the blood supply to the hip joint is interrupted, which can lead to the death of bone tissue.
- Hip trauma: This can include fractures, dislocations, or other injuries to the hip joint.