
How can I improve my mobility with significant arthritis in one hip?
At 51, my orthopedist says I am too young for a hip replacement but the pain with each step has become agonizing, and the limping has caused imflammation in my SI joint.The doctor suggests three physical therapy sessions a week but with a deductible of 40.00 each adding another 480.00 minimum to my monthly budget just isn’t in the cards. And- I have had some physical therapy with little or no results. Can anyone suggest anything?
I have tried a cane, but it seems that the cane doesn’t help the hip pain much, since so much of the pain has migrated to my right SI joint and my right leg seems to have torqued a bit inward. I have tried using the cane in both hands without a lot of success.
I find it very frustrating when orthopedists say someone is “too young” for a hip replacement. Does that mean you should stop being active until you are “old enough” for a hip replacement?
To say the very least, at least he/she is trying conservative options first. First, regarding the frequency of PT of three times a week, I rarely find this to be needed unless the case is very acute or post-surgical. Most non-surgical, chronic pains can be addressed with a frequency of two times a week…especially because the goal is to show someone a home exercise program…we certainly aren’t going to cure your arthritis, so it will require long term management. PT at 1-2 times a week is often very appropriate. This may certainly make it more affordable. However, I realize that you have tried PT before, and perhaps either you need a different approach of PT or that PT simply isn’t the answer for you.
My next suggestion would be to discuss a water aerobics class…particularly if you have a facility that follows the guidelines of the national arthritis foundation. Programs sponsered by the NAF keep the pool heated to a certain degree which tends to be more comfortable for people with arthritis. You very well may get some relief from this type of program which focuses on low impact joint movements, cardiovascular health and joint flexiblity. However, even if you don’t get pain relief, at least you can exercise in a medium that should make exercise more tolerable.
You may also wish to discuss cortisone injections as a way to mange your pain. A hip resurfacing procedure, a less invasive surgery than a hip replacement may also be of consideration. Even a hemi arthroplasty would be less invasive. These are all options to discuss with your surgeon.
Next, you could venture to alternative therapies…accupunture etc. …however, the jury is still out on these types of approaches. To say the very least, it won’t hurt you or worsen your condition.
Finally, if you’ve exhausted all your options and it HAS been confirmed that arthritis is the cause of your hip pain and your surgeon continues to refuse a hip replacement, I would simply seek another opinion. I see no reason to disable a young person because they are “too young” for the procedure. While it is true that you may eventually need a revision surgery in the future, you should know that hip replacement procedures are lasting longer and longer…I’ve seen several that have lasted greater than 10 years (and remember that the technology has improved since then) and I’m sure we’ll start seeing them last 15-20 years. At that rate, better to have your revision done by age 71, rather than waiting until you are 65 to have the surgery and having to go through a revision at the age of 85 when surgery becomes a greater risk!
…I have seen MANY hip replacments performed in people under the age of 60…in fact, several have been in their 40s….it has GREATLY improved the quality of their life.
Best wishes to you.
Hip Pain: Physical Therapy Treatment for Indivuals having Hip Joint Replacement Surgery
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Viniyoga Therapy – Low Back, Sacrum and Hip – with Gary Kraftsow $21.52 VINIYOGA THERAPY: LOW BACK SACRUM & HIP (DVD MOVIE)… |
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PREP: Total Hip Replacement $21.95 This DVD includes a comprehensive presentation on the total hip replacement surgery, what you can expect before and after your surgery; signs and symptoms of potential complications, post surgical hip precautions and an overview to help with your psychological well-being. Included is a detailed video exercise program for you to follow before and after your surgery. This DVD has all the informati… |




