Are you experiencing significant hip pain and think you’re too young for a hip replacement? While hip replacements were once reserved for the elderly, these procedures are becoming commonplace in men and women as young as age 50 and not uncommon in patients as young as age 40.
If conservative treatments, such as anti-inflammatoires, physical therapy or injectable medications, are not relieving your pain, you may benefit from a hip replacement. Andrew B. Richardson, MD, can guide you through the hip replacement process and help you decide whether the surgery is right for you.
During a hip replacement, Dr. Richardson surgically replaces damaged portions of your hip joint with prosthetic pieces made from ceramic, metal, or hard plastic. This highly effective procedure can reduce pain and restore hip function so you can return to an active lifestyle.
Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of hip pain. This degenerative condition often worsens over time, leading to pain and reduced mobility. As your joint health diminishes, performing even simple activities can become painful and difficult. Hip replacement surgery is indicated for those patients whose quality of life has suffered due to the pain from hip arthritis.
Hip replacement surgery isn’t the treatment option for hip arthritis. Dr. Richardson offers a wide range of hip pain solutions, ranging from physical therapy, home exercise programs or injections to surgical treatments. The goal of both non-surgical and surgical treatments is to improve your quality of life. Dr. Richardson will discuss your options with you. When you are no longer able to maintain your quality of life with conservative treatments, Dr. Richardson may suggest hip replacement surgery.
More and more younger patients are opting for hip replacements, largely because of advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology.
Advancements in less invasive hip replacements are shortening hospital stays and accelerating recovery times. These days, it’s common for patients who undergo hip replacements to return home on the same day as surgery and walk without assistive devices in as little as 2-3 weeks. Based on your occupation, most patients can return to work within the same timeframe, although ultimate healing time varies between individuals.
Implant technology
Advancements in implant technology are continuing to improve the durability and reliability of hip replacements. Research shows that 90% of hip replacements are still functioning normally 20 years after surgery. As a result, many patients with severe hip arthritis who were once considered "too young" for hip replacement are now able to undergo surgery and return to their active lifestyle.
While hip replacement surgery remains a significant life decision, it is now possible for younger patients to continue to enjoy their quality of life. To see if a hip replacement can help you reclaim your life, book an appointment online or over the phone with Andrew B. Richardson, MD, today.
