5 Myths and Realities About Hip Replacement

Hip replacement is a common and highly successful joint replacement procedure for the treatment of degenerative bone disease, osteoarthritis, or other conditions. It is a major surgery in which the damaged parts of the hip joint are replaced with artificial prosthetics made of metal, plastic or ceramic. The procedure aims to provide pain relief and restore the movement of joints in the patients. It can dramatically improve the quality of life of people who suffer from chronic persistent pain and disability to bone damage. However, there are many myths about the hip replacement that is prevalent amongst people and cloud reality. This article focuses on bringing forward the reality associated with some of the most prevalent regarding a hip replacement.

Hip Replacement

Myth 1: After hip replacement, you will require bed rest for a long time.

Reality

With advanced techniques such as minimally invasive joint replacement, a computer navigation system, robotic arm, and others, there is a significant reduction in postoperative discomfort, pain, hospital stay and overall recovery period. The doctors aim to send the patient with no pain and proper hip functionality after the surgery. You can stand up and move from bed with help from the next day after the procedure or even earlier. Even after going back home, proper physical therapy and rehabilitation continue to restore proper movement of the joint. 

Myth 2: Hip replacement is not needed at a young age

Reality

Indication for a hip replacement doesn’t depend on a specific age limit and weight, but on the extent of damage and pain experienced by the patient. Younger people with damaged hip have been able to resume a normal healthy lifestyle after their hip replacement. With recent technological advancements, the quality of implants and surgical techniques have improved. Younger patients have benefited from this as they can enjoy long-term results of the procedure. 

Myth 3: I won’t be able to enjoy an active lifestyle.

Reality

Actually, the opposite is true. The goal of hip replacement surgery is to return the patient to a normal active lifestyle and enable them to take part in different low-impact sports. However, it is important to avoid vigorous sports activities such as basketball and long-distance running as these can impact the lifespan of the artificial joints.

Myth 4: The implants don’t last for long.

Reality

The implants for a hip replacement, on an average, may last between 15 to 20 years. The recent upgrades in the technology and implant material, the lifespan of an artificial implant may go up to 30 years. The prosthetic implants nowadays are so superior that they feel so natural that people even forget they have an artificial hip. But it is important to take good care of the new hip and avoid high-impact or contact sports to prevent damage to the artificial implant. 

Myth 5: Arthritis is an old-age disease and it’s better to learn to live with it. 

Reality

Osteoarthritis has been affecting a large section of the population worldwide. It is the most common reason for hip replacement surgery. If the person is suffering through severe pain and restriction of movement that is impacting their quality of life, then surgery is recommended. Hip replacement surgery can dramatically improve the condition and relieve pain and other symptoms, enabling you to enjoy a healthy life. 

So, if you are troubled by persistent pain and limitation of movement to a level that it is affecting your daily activities, consult orthopedics for the best treatment option. Surgery is usually recommended when medication and physical therapy alone fail to improve the condition. Many people fear the term “surgery” and try to delay their operation as long as possible. This, in fact, can harm a person and the condition may worsen to a level that it seriously impacts their quality of life. Too much delay in the surgery may also make recovery slower and difficult as the muscle strength and flexibility has been reduced due to the medical condition they are being treated for. 

Hip replacement surgery can give you a chance to live a better life and enjoy the activities you are interested in. 

Hip replacement surgery in India is a commonly performed procedure and is offered by all the top hospitals across various cities. The low cost of treatment and no waiting line makes India a highly favored destination for medical travel to people from various parts of the world.

Also See: Best Private Hospitals for Children in Dhaka With Address Phone Number

This is a guest post written by Dr. Suneet Singh who holds a post-graduate degree in Hospital and Healthcare Management from Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and works as an International Patient Coordinator at Lyfboat.

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