How to Know if You Qualify for Hip Replacement Surgery

When we’re young and healthy without the occurrence of accidents, it’s easy to take our legs for granted. In the event of a bad hip our way of life becomes threatened, as we can no longer move about pain free. But there are options available, and with a little information you can know if you qualify for hip replacement surgery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Doctor

1. Decide first if surgery is necessary before trying to decide if you qualify for hip replacement surgery. If the pain and inflammation is so bad that you have problems moving, doing everyday activities, and sleeping, you will want to decide if you are qualified for hip replacement surgery.
2. Determine if attempts at other non-surgical solutions have failed. If walking aids, exercise and medication cannot control the pain and inflammation as well as help with the walking, then it is time to see if you qualify for hip replacement.
3. Talk to your doctor. He or she will be able to tell you if your symptoms are severe enough to warrant surgery, and if so, will be able to send you to a surgeon who can help you decide if you need more time.
4. Visit with a surgeon. A surgeon who performs hip replacement surgery will be able to assess your situation and decide if you qualify or not. He or she may also help you decide if that is what you really want to do.
5. Look at your general health and risk for infection. Determine your body’s tolerance for surgery and anesthesia. If you have a chronic disease or severe muscle weakness, you may want seek other methods.
6. Decide if your body can support your artificial hip. Evaluate your daily stresses. Being overweight will put stress on your false hip, as will regular manual labor and participation in strenuous sports. You’re a better candidate the closer you are to retirement and should be at a normal weight.

Tips & Warnings

• Alternative procedures, such as osteomtomy, can be a less invasive choice with a faster recovery time.
• You will not be able to resume regular daily activities for 8 weeks to a year after surgery, depending on how severe your surgery is, as well as other factors such as age, weight and daily life.
• Do not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen regularly for pain and inflammation without consulting your doctor first.