Hip Replacement Surgery: What to Expect After

Surgical repair of damaged hips through hip replacement is one of the most regularly performed orthopedic surgeries, health survey shows, and it is often successful. Diseased hips that are affecting mobility, causing pain, not responding well to regular treatments and disrupting daily activities are subject to undergo hip replacement surgery, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). During this major surgical treatment, patients are put under general anesthesia as the diseased area is removed and replaced with the artificial hip joint. Individuals who undergo this procedure are able to bounce back to their normal routine faster because orthopedic experts constantly improve the technique used in performing this surgical procedure.

Shortly after the operation, the patient will learn how to use the new hip but may still have limited movement. Several joint exercises will also be given by the physical therapist to strengthen the new hip and to speed up the recovery process. Patients are encouraged to diligently follow these exercises to regain their normal mobility and strength. The full weight of the patient may not be supported by the new hip during the first few weeks, hence, it is important to use walking aids at first. Therapy will help patients slowly ease their weight in the operated leg and eventually they will not need to use any additional support.

Recovery will be easier when individuals prepare the house before undergoing the procedure. Health care providers may be consulted on how to make the house ready and safe. It may take a while before one is able to use the stairs, thus, patients are advised to stay in the lower floor or near the bathroom. Chairs, beds and commodes also need to be kept in recommended height to avoid dislocating the hip. It is recommended to have someone in the house while convalescing as it will be hard during the first few weeks following the procedure. Keeping objects that are frequently used in arm's reach will also prevent dislocation.

Full recovery may be anticipated within three to six months and it varies with each person. The type of surgery, person's overall health and rehabilitation may determine how fast the patient recovers. Although there are many men and women who have filed complaints because of the failure of their implants, hip replacement surgery is still a viable option. Talks about the estimated $3 billion settlement for all ASR lawsuits are even discussed among patients.

URL References:

niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Hip_Replacement/#7

mayoclinic.com/health/hip-replacement/MY00235/DSECTION=what-you-can-expect

orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00356

nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000167.htm

sutterhealth.org/orthopedics/hip/preparing-for-hip-replacement.html#yourhome

Exercises Approved for Post-hip Replacement Patients

Men and women who have had a total hip replacement may need to remember that their new hip device may not function as well as the original, orthopedic experts say. Patients are advised to finish their exercises taught by the physical therapist during the first three months, according to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. These guides will assist patients in avoiding complications like dislocation and fractures that may be caused by improper joint positioning. An active lifestyle may still be possible after the surgery so long as patients keep in mind not to overstress the hip implant.

Reducing pain and stiffness, increasing muscle strength and preventing contractures are some of the benefits of proper joint exercises. The circulation of the blood around the body is also enhanced. Various studies are being conducted to determine better programs for outpatient. The problem with putting stress on the joint is that it might fail faster than expected.

The recommended activities of the are the following:

- Walking

- Swimming

- Dancing

- Biking

These are some the activities that need to be avoided:

- Jogging or running

- Jumping

- Contact sports

- Heavy lifting

There are also certain joint positions that need to be avoided to prevent the dislocation of the newly implanted hip:

- Turning the operated leg inward

- Bending the hip more than 90 degrees

- Crossing the legs

- Reaching up and outside the operated leg

These precautions are to be practiced for the first three months after the operation. Going back to the normal routine may not be the same for all patient. The amount of weight that may be supported by the new also varies and needs to be taken in consideration when planning day-to-day activities. Walking up and down the stairs or other day-to-day activities may be easier when patients follow their physical therapist's instructions. After getting used to the new hip, health care providers will recommend walking as one of the most staple activities because it provides good joint exercise without adding any unnecessary stress to the artificial hip joint. The possible complications may be avoided by patients, if they follow the advice of their health care providers.

However, there are some men and women who have experienced severe complications. A Biomet lawyer was asked by some patients to help them prepare their case against the manufacturer of these hip implants. The Biomet Hip Replacement Lawsuit Center at biomethiplawyer.com may be able to provide more information on these cases filed by some of these patients.

URL References:

orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00356

emoryhealthcare.org/emory-orthopaedics-spine-hospital/post-op-care/post-hip-surgery.html

ucsfhealth.org/education/recovering_from_hip_replacement_surgery/

bidmc.org/YourHealth/BIDMCInteractive/HealthyIs/BonesandJoints/Hip/ActivitiesAfterHipReplacement.aspx#positions

niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Hip_Replacement/hip_replacement_ff.asp#exercise