Hip pain can make it challenging to walk, stand, or sleep. It can also prevent you from being active and enjoying time with your loved ones. When you have been experiencing hip pain for some time, your doctor may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon for an evaluation. Orthopedic surgeons are specialists who can determine if you need a hip replacement.
Here’s how an orthopedic evaluation for a hip replacement goes:
Symptoms And Medical History
During the evaluation, the orthopedic surgeon will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and what makes them better or worse. They will also ask about your medical history, including any previous injuries or surgeries.
Some of the most common symptoms that may lead to an orthopedic evaluation for a hip replacement are:
- Hip pain that interferes with your daily activities
- Pain that is worse at night or when you are resting
- Stiffness in your hip
- Difficulty walking, standing, or climbing stairs
The surgeon will also ask about your other health conditions and the medications you are taking. They will also want to know what treatments you’ve tried and the type of lifestyle you live on a daily basis.
Conditions That Benefit From Hip Replacement
Most patients who need a hip replacement are over the age of 50. However, you can be younger and need surgery if you have a joint injury or condition that damaged your hip beyond natural healing. These includes:
- Osteoarthritis– a degenerative disease that causes the cartilage in your joints to break down. It is the most common reason for hip replacement surgery.
- Rheumatoid arthritis– a chronic inflammatory disease that can damage the cartilage.
- Hip fractures– a break in a bone from a fall or other injury.
- Avascular necrosis–occurs when the blood supply to a bone is insufficient, causing the bone to die and collapse.
- Dysplasia– when the hip socket does not form properly, causing joint pain and damage.
Physical Examination
After discussing your symptoms and medical history, the orthopedic surgeon will do a physical examination. They will look at how you walk and move, and check for areas of swelling or tenderness.
During the physical exam, the surgeon may also:
- Feel your bones and joints for any deformities
- Check the range of motion in your hip
- Test your reflexes and muscle strength
- Look for signs of inflammation, such as redness or warmth
Another important part of a hip replacement evaluation is checking your overall health to determine if you are healthy enough for surgery. Some patients have multiple chronic diseases that make it riskier to have major surgery. For instance, uncontrolled diabetes can increase your risk of delayed wound healing and infection. Simply needing hip replacement is not enough – you must qualify for surgery for the sake of safety.
Imaging Tests
Your orthopedic surgeon may order imaging tests to further assess your hip, particularly to assess the extent of damage. These may include:
- X-ray – uses electromagnetic waves to create images of the hip.
- MRI – uses magnetic waves and a computer to produce detailed images of the hip.
- CT scan – uses X-rays and a computer to make images of the hip.
Aside from imaging tests, your surgeon may also order blood tests. These can help rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.
After reviewing the information, your orthopedic surgeon will determine if you need a hip replacement. If so, they will discuss the next steps with you.
Hip Replacement Evaluation Near You In Johnson Country, KS
Hip replacement surgery may be an option if you are experiencing hip pain that interferes with your daily activities. If you think you may need a hip replacement, talk to an orthopedic surgeon. They will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also order imaging and blood tests to assess your hip joint and rule out other conditions.
Do you need a hip replacement? Look no further than Midwest Orthopaedics. Our board-certified and highly experienced providers are ready to give you the best care. You may call our friendly staff at (913) 362-8317 to learn about our comprehensive services. You may also use our convenient appointment request form to book a consultation with the best orthopedic surgeon near you.
We look forward to serving you!
