Myth vs. Fact: Hip Replacement Surgery- The Hip Replacement Journey: What to Expect
- What’s Next for Hip Replacement
Hip replacement surgery is a common and effective procedure that can significantly improve the quality of life for chronic hip pain patients. Over 450,000 hip replacement surgeries are performed annually in the United States.
Despite its prevalence, many misconceptions persist about this procedure. A study published in the Journal of Arthroplasty found that 70% of patients had at least one incorrect belief about hip replacement surgery before consultation.
Let’s address five common myths about hip replacement and what to expect from this surgery, especially if you want to relieve hip pain.
Myth vs. Fact: Hip Replacement Surgery
In our experience treating hip pain, many patients come to Travis Clegg, M.D., with misconceptions about hip replacement and recovery. Recent advancements in surgical techniques, like the anterior hip approach and implant materials, have significantly improved outcomes and recovery times.
Myth #1: Only Seniors Get Hip Replacement Surgery
Fact: While age-related wear and tear is a common cause of hip problems, hip replacement isn’t solely reserved for seniors. While the average age for this procedure is 65, a growing number of younger patients are benefiting from hip replacements. One report found that 14% of hip replacement patients are under 55.
Patients of all ages can experience debilitating hip pain due to conditions like arthritis, injuries, or other underlying medical issues. If your quality of life is significantly impacted, age shouldn’t be a barrier to finding relief.
Myth #2: Recovery is Slow and Painful
Fact: Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and pain management, recovery from hip replacement surgery is much smoother and faster than it used to be. Most patients are up and moving within one to two hours of the procedure.
Full recovery can take up to several months, but with consistent physical therapy and a healthy routine, you’ll return to your favorite activities sooner than you might think.
Myth #3: You’ll Be Limited in Activities After Surgery
Fact: All patients are able to go home the same day. Hip replacement surgery is intended to restore mobility, not restrict it. After fully healing, you can typically return to various activities, including walking, swimming, golfing, and even certain low-impact sports.
It’s important to consult with your doctor about specific activity restrictions, but hip replacement allows most people to lead a more active lifestyle.
Myth #4: Implants Don’t Last Long, and You’ll Need Another Surgery
Fact: Modern hip implants are made from durable materials that last many years. While individual results can vary, many hip replacements last well beyond 20 years. By following your doctor’s post-operative care instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can maximize the longevity of your new hip joint.
Myth #5: Hip Replacement is a Highly Invasive Surgery
Fact: Minimally invasive techniques are now widely used in hip replacement surgery. These techniques involve smaller incisions, less muscle trauma, and often a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery. Discuss the various surgical options with your surgeon to determine the best approach for your needs.
The Hip Replacement Journey: What to Expect
Most consider hip replacement after talking to their doctor, who will recommend the procedure if hip pain is persistent and not responding to other treatments. In other cases, the initial diagnosis clearly indicates that damage to the hip requires surgery. Here is how we help patients who need a hip replacement.
1) Consultation
It’s easy to book a consultation with an orthopedic hip surgeon like Dr. Clegg. They will assess your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order imaging tests to evaluate your hip joint. Your doctor will let you know if hip surgery is the best option.
2) Preparation for Surgery
If surgery is recommended, you’ll meet with your doctor to discuss the procedure, risks, and benefits. This is a great time to ask questions about these myths and how they relate to your hip. They will also guide you on preparing for surgery, which may include adjusting medications and steps to optimize your overall health.
3) The Surgery
Hip replacement surgery typically involves replacing the damaged ball and socket of the hip joint with artificial components.
Anterior Approach Hip Replacement
For minimally invasive options, Dr. Clegg’s anterior approach hip replacement technique involves a 4-inch incision and is performed without cutting through any muscles or tendons surrounding the hip joint. This approach allows patients to be up and walking down the hall and climbing stairs within a couple of hours of the operation. Our hip replacement patients can go home the very same day. Learn more about this approach and see one patient’s recovery after anterior approach hip replacement.
4) Post-Surgery Recovery
After surgery, you may not have to spend more than a couple of hours at the facility if an anterior approach hip replacement is performed. However, it can take 2 to 3 days to go home from a traditional hip replacement. You’ll also begin physical therapy to strengthen your hips and mobility. You’ll continue physical therapy on an outpatient basis, gradually increasing your activity levels as you heal.
5) Return to Normal Life
Most patients can return to their daily activities within a few weeks, although full recovery may take several months. Recovery differs for each person, but working with your doctor and physical therapist can speed up this process.
What’s Next for Hip Replacement
While hip replacement surgery can be life-changing, it’s important to have realistic expectations. It’s not an overnight fix; you must be committed to rehabilitation. But with the right mindset and support, you can look forward to a future with less pain, improved mobility, and the ability to enjoy the activities you love.
If you have any questions about hip replacement or looking for treatment for hip pain, talk to Dr. Clegg and get a consultation. You may be able to recover from hip pain and move without pain just by following a treatment plan. It’s best to talk to a doctor who can order scans and provide a diagnosis before considering hip replacement surgery.