Signs It May Be Time For a Total Hip Replacement

If you have been experiencing hip pain, limited mobility, and some stiffness or tenderness in the joint for an extended period, consider a total hip replacement. Getting a new hip joint can improve your quality of life–allowing you to move and function with increased ease and comfort.

Before making such a big decision, it’s best to understand if the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks involved. Let’s examine some of the signs that could indicate it is time for a total hip replacement.

1. Difficulty walking or standing due to hip pain

In some cases, the pain can be so severe that even everyday activities become difficult such as:

• Difficulty getting in and out of chairs
• Climbing stairs
• Putting on shoes

These are all signs that your hip is not working as well as it should. If you experience these issues on a regular basis, consider a total hip replacement. Your doctor can help you make the best decision based on your medical history and individual needs.

2. Constant hip pain lead to sleepless nights

Constant hip pain can lead to a significant decrease in the quality of life. People may need help to get out of bed or be unable to sleep. Suppose someone has tried other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy, rest, medications, and lifestyle modifications, but still experiences consistent pain. In that case, it may be time for a total hip replacement.

3. Sudden swelling and tenderness in the hip joint

Sudden swelling and tenderness in the hip joint are key warning signs that a total hip replacement may be needed. The swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with this condition can be debilitating and limit daily activities. In some cases, the discomfort may occur even when you are resting or inactive.

This symptom is often caused by a buildup of fluid around the joint due to damage from wear and tear or inflammation from arthritis. It can cause difficulty walking or standing up straight without experiencing pain and discomfort when severe enough. This inflammation can also lead to bone erosion over time if left untreated.

4. Limping with one leg

There are several reasons why limping can be indicative of a need for this procedure, including:

• Pain in the hip joint may lead to an uneven gait, which can cause limping. This type of pain is often caused by cartilage damage or arthritis that affects the hip joint and results in inflammation and swelling.

• Due to weakened muscles surrounding the hip joint. If these muscles become too weak, your body may not be able to support your weight when you walk properly. Conditions, including age-related degeneration or an injury, can cause weakness in the muscles surrounding the hip joint.

• Limping can also occur due to instability in the hip joint itself. Instability is usually caused by a tear or other damage to a ligament that keeps the ball of your femur firmly seated within your pelvis socket. When this ligament becomes weak or torn, it can cause instability when you move, which leads to limping and pain.

Improve your quality of life with Teton’s Total Hip Replacement

To live life on your terms and find relief from hip pain, it may be time to seek your specialist and discuss if a total hip replacement could help.  At Teton Outpatient Services, our dedicated physicians specialize in joint replacement surgery, including total hip replacements.

Don’t let debilitating pain stop you from living life to its fullest — schedule a consultation with one of our physicians today to see your options for treating your hip condition.