Hip Arthritis & Hip Replacement
Arizona Orthopedic Surgery Solutions for Hip Arthritis & Hip Replacement
Hip arthritis and fractures are very serious conditions. Hips are the gateway from the legs to the torso. It is important they are aligned properly to be able to keep you mobile and prevent pain in the ankles, knees, and back. The hip is a “ball and socket” joint while simultaneously being one of the human body’s biggest joints. The “ball” is the top of the thighbone, known as the femoral head, while the “socket,” is a section of the pelvis known as the acetabulum. Similar to the knee, the surface of these two bones are covered with cartilage, which allows for friction-free movement with a full range of healthy motion and no pain. Synovial fluid is produced by the body to lubricate cartilage and keep joints in motion. When the cartilage is worn down, bone spurs are formed, resulting in discomfort or pain and a limited range of motion. Most forms of hip arthritis will be managed by non-surgical treatments, such as changing workouts from high impact to low impact as well as keeping a healthy weight. Physical therapy can help win back range of motion and flexibility while a cane, walker, and reacher will prevent one from performing movements known to cause pain. Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen can be used for pain, with cortisone injections for severe pain. Most hip fractures will require surgery to be able to position and heal the hip correctly.
What is Hip Arthritis & Hip Replacement
The hip normally suffers from five types of arthritis, being osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and psoriatic arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Known as “wear and tear” arthritis and meaning “arthritis of the bone,” osteoarthritis is the most usual type of arthritis and found more frequently in the elderly. Osteoarthritis is linked to a former hip injury, obesity, increasing age, and problems with the hip joint, such as hip dysplasia and femoroacetabular impingement.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is not exclusive to any age group as children can develop juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is when specific joints in the body inflame while reacting to the immune system. Rheumatoid arthritis causes painful inflammation of the synovial lining which will lead to bone and cartilage depreciation. Rheumatoid arthritis tends to “mirror,” meaning both hips will be afflicted.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
A condition where the spine and sacroiliac joint, where the spine and pelvis meet, swell, causing hip inflammation. Most notable in those seventeen to thirty five, however all ages can experience ankylosing spondylitis with more men affected than women. Those suffering from ankylosing spondylitis tend to experience intense flare ups, with durations of decreased to nonexistent symptoms.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Normally affecting women between fifteen and thirty five, systemic lupus erythematosus can affect anyone. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune condition where inflammation and joint damage are possible, however any area of the body can be stricken with systemic lupus erythematosus.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Paired with psoriasis, a skin condition, psoriatic arthritis can induce rigidness, inflammation, and discomfort in any area of the body, in this case the hip. Most people with psoriatic arthritis already have psoriasis, however it is feasible to acquire psoriatic arthritis prior to the skin disorder making itself apparent.
Hip Arthritis & Hip Replacement Diagnosis
Hip Arthritis & Hip Replacement Treatment - Non Surgical
Doctors will recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs along with physical therapy stretches and exercises to improve range of motion and strength in the muscles assisting the hip joint. The onset of rheumatoid arthritis can be digressed with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Additionally, braces, splints, and other assistive technology can be used to help with everyday activities and movements. For more intense inflammation and pain, Cortisone injections can be used about three to four times each year.
Hip Arthritis & Hip Replacement Treatment - Surgical
Surgery will be recommended only after nonsurgical treatments have failed to alleviate pain and discomfort. The patient’s age, status of the hip, development of arthritis, and type of arthritis are the four main factors doctors use to decide which surgical procedure to perform. Most often, a total hip replacement or synovectomy are used for inflammatory arthritis. For rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, a total hip replacement is normally suggested. Doctors take out all impaired cartilage and bone and replace it with metal or plastic joint replicas. A synovectomy replaces specific areas or the entirety of the synovium, which is the joint lining. A synovectomy is the preferred operation when only the joint lining has been compromised and the articular cartilage and bone have not been disturbed. Doctors recommend a synovectomy for a patient in the early stages of inflammatory arthritis.
