Orthopedic Care for Hip Injuries
Missouri Orthopedics & Advanced Sports MedicineHip Treatments
The hip is an important part of the body, allowing us to function easily in daily activities, from sitting and standing, to walking, running, bending and more. Most of these activities are done without a second thought, but when there is hip pain or difficulty with movement, it can be debilitating. At Missouri Orthopedics & Advanced Sports Medicine in St. Louis, we provide comprehensive, exceptional care for the hip joint to help restore function and mobility, getting you back to enjoying your life.
Total Hip Replacement with Anterior Approach
Experiencing problems or pain in the hip that has not been alleviated using other methods may lead to total hip replacement as a treatment option. We offer total hip replacement using a minimally invasive procedure, which allows the surgeon to perform the procedure through much smaller incisions with minimal muscle dissection. As a result, most patients experience faster recovery, less pain, and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional hip replacement procedures.
Minimally-invasive total hip replacement aims to replace the hip joint by removing the damaged portions and replacing it with artificial parts. Most patients find that total hip replacement eases pain and helps improve mobility, particularly when recovery is paired with physical therapy.
While this procedure may not be right for everyone, there may be other hip replacement options that will work for you. If you are experiencing hip discomfort or limited mobility, contact us for an exam appointment.
For more information, check out our Hip Replacement FAQ section below.
Arthroscopic Hip Surgery
If hip pain or discomfort persists after nonsurgical treatments have been tried, your doctor may recommend hip arthroscopy. This surgical procedure allows the doctor to get an inside view of the hip joint through a small incision to diagnose and treat a large number of ailments. A small camera is inserted through the incision, relaying pictures back to a video monitor. Using this display, the surgeon guides miniature surgical instruments to perform the procedure.
Arthroscopic surgery is often less painful for patients and results in less joint stiffness and a generally shorter recovery time.
Repair of a Labral Hip Tear
An injury or tear to the labrum can lead to pain in the front or side of the hip as well as in the groin area. These injuries are commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents, falls, collisions with others during sports, or overuse. Because the pain often increases with walking, pivoting, or physical activities such as running, treatment and repair is necessary to return to comfortable daily life. Unfortunately, it is rare for a labral tear in the hip to occur without another injury, as well, so a thorough exam is vital in ensuring proper treatment is utilized.
Depending on the severity of the labral tear in the hip, conservative treatments such as medications or therapy may be enough to heal in just a few weeks. However, for others, it may require arthroscopic surgery to repair. In any case, our office is equipped to provide proper diagnosis, treatment and repair should you experience a labral tear in the hip.
Orthopedic Care for Hip Fracture
Hip fractures are serious injuries that occur most often in the elderly population due to falls, but anyone could be at risk for fracture from severe impact. Treatment and recovery can be extensive, with almost all cases requiring surgery to repair the fracture or replace the hip, followed by physical therapy. Proper care is essential for the best outcome, making it important to work with a knowledgeable, experienced orthopedic specialist.
At Missouri Orthopedics & Advanced Sports Medicine, we will fully evaluate the injury to determine the best treatment plan. Our physician is prepared to perform the necessary surgery, from repairing the bone to a total or partial hip replacement, and our office will work with you throughout the recovery process. If you or a loved one may have a hip fracture, contact us today.
Hip Replacement FAQs
Are hip replacements safe?
Generally, hip replacement surgery is safe. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Blood clots due to lack of activity, infection at the incision site, or fraction during surgery are all potential risks with hip replacement surgery. After recovery, some may notice a change in leg length, easier joint dislocation, or joint loosening over time. Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor to determine if the benefits outweigh the potential risks.
What is recovery like after hip replacement surgery?
Recovery may be different for each patient. Soon after surgery, your care team will encourage mobilization by sitting up and possibly walking a little with crutches or a walker. Depending on your activity level and overall risk of blood clots, you may be prescribed blood thinners for several weeks after surgery. Some patients benefit from regular physical therapy, but activity and exercise are extremely necessary to regain the use of the joint.
What are my restrictions after hip replacement surgery?
Once you recover, you will notice the pain is gone, but performing your usual activities may require a different approach. Staying active will help in your recovery, but don’t overdo it too soon. Your doctor will be able to help you determine what activities you can safely perform and when throughout your recovery.
What are hip replacements made of?
Hip replacements generally have a combination of materials, including titanium alloy, plastic, metal or ceramic. Your doctor will be able to discuss with you what will be used during your procedure based on your unique needs.