Hip replacement surgery is often the last treatment option for patients with a severely damaged hip. The damage can be caused by trauma, osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis (bone death), or rheumatoid arthritis. There are 2 main types of hip replacement, and they both entail the removal of the damaged bone and cartilage from the hip.
What is the difference between a partial and total hip replacement?
In total hip replacement surgery, the head of the thigh bone and the socket where it is attached is removed and replaced with prosthesis or artificial parts made of ceramics, plastic, or metal..
In a partial hip replacement, only the head of the thigh bone is removed and replaced. If both hips are problematic, double hip replacements, though rare, may be performed.
How many hip replacement surgeries are performed each eyar?
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that over 300,000 hip replacement surgeries were performed in 2010 to patients aged 45 years and above.
This surgery aims to relieve hip pain that no longer responds to conventional treatments, improve hip function, and help the patient move better. But these goals cannot be achieved through surgery alone. Patients need to undergo physical therapy to help them recover.
Physical therapy before hip replacement
Your physical therapist can help prepare yourself and your body before the surgery through:
Teaching useful flexibility and strengthening exercises
Coaching how to use mobility aids like a walker or crutches
Recommending necessary changes that you need to do in your home to improve safety post-surgery.
Why is physical therapy a must after a total hip replacement
To fully recover, patients need to attend several physical therapy sessions post-surgery because physical therapy can:
Ease the pain after surgery
Restore your joint to full strength
Bring back your range of motion
Help you achieve balance when upright
Relieve your fear of falling
Assist in your transition to normal life
There are several considerations that patients need to observe after a successful hip replacement surgery to minimize your risk for hip dislocation. MAXX physical therapists in Lake Charles will help you follow and stick to these measures, which differ depending on the surgical techniques used. After a successful surgery, the only way to maximize its benefits and regain your hip’s optimal function is to undergo physical therapy. Your commitment and dedication to a pain-free life and the assistance of MAXX physical therapy experts is a sure way to successful rehabilitation.
What our physical therapists do to help with your recovery
The length and frequency of sessions differ from one patient to another. After your discharge from the hospital, your MAXX physical therapy sessions will mainly focus on:
Regaining your balance. Your balance is usually impaired after surgery, and this increases your risk for falls
Strengthening your muscles through appropriate exercises
Improving your movement and range-of-motion through stretching and flexibility exercises
Restoring the full function of your hip through weight-bearing exercises and activities
Assisting your return to everyday life through lifestyle exercises like climbing stairs, lifting, pushing and pulling, and light jogging.
During rehabilitation, you should feel comfortable about asking your MAXX physical therapist questions, as well as expressing any discomfort or anxiety.
If you have pain in your hip either before of after surgery, the team at MAXX Physical Therapy can benefit you. We even know the best orthopedics in town and we'll be glad to assist you in scheduling your appointment. Call us to day to schedule your appointment and experience the exxtra for yourself!
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