If you have been diagnosed with arthritis of the hip and have been experiencing hip pain, total hip replacement is likely on your radar. In many cases, total hip replacement is extremely effective at eliminating hip pain for most arthritis patients. Additionally, modern day hip replacements are relatively less risky and invasive than procedures of the past. However, if you are not quite ready to commit to surgery, your doctor may try several conservative, non-surgical treatments in order to alleviate pain and symptoms without surgery.
Dr. Michael Rowland
3 Conservative Methods to Try Prior to Total Hip Replacement
Below are three treatment options to discuss with your doctor prior to making the decision to undergo total hip replacement. It is important to note that the conservation treatment methods below do not serve as a cure for arthritis of the hip. However, they can be used as solutions for the pain and side effects of the arthritis, such as inflammation.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: For arthritis sufferers, relief may be found through the use of anti-inflammatory medications such as Aleve and ibuprofen. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory pills to be taken up to 3 times a day, depending upon the health and needs of the patient. Tylenol, although not an anti-inflammatory medicine, may also provide relief.
- Physical Therapy: Prior to total hip replacement, your doctor may suggest physical therapy to strengthen the weakened muscles surrounding the hip. In addition to strengthening the hip muscles, physical therapy has been known to help patients manage their pain and hip dysfunction as a result of arthritis.
- Corticosteroid Injections: If you are suffering from arthritis of the hip, your doctor may try eliminating the pain with corticosteroid injections. This anti inflammatory steroid is injected directly into the hip joint. For most patients, the effects of the injection last up to 3-6 months and may be repeated every 6 months for a year or two. Although this is a short term solution, it can buy you time until you are ready to undergo total hip replacement surgery. This injection is administered by radiology at a separate appointment.
When Is Total Hip Replacement Necessary?
Total hip replacement is an elective procedure and the decision to undergo total hip replacement lies in the hands of the patient. However, if you have tried the above methods with little to no success, it may be time to consider undergoing total hip replacement. Additionally, if your pain is interrupting your sleep and daily activities, total hip replacement may be the solution you are looking for. Speak with your doctor today to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure.
Learn More about Arthritis of the Hip and Total Hip Replacement at South Shore Orthopedics
If you are interested in learning more about total hip replacement, we invite you to explore South Shore Orthopedics. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in joint replacement and would welcome the opportunity to learn more about your condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.