Hip Replacement Surgery in Portland, OR

Hip pain can be both painful and debilitating, making walking and performing everyday tasks almost impossible. Hip pain is often the result of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. During the early stages of arthritis, pain symptoms can typically be managed with anti-inflammatory medications, rest, and strength training exercises. If pain symptoms continue or worsen while using conservative treatments, total hip replacement is often necessary to regain mobility, as well as relieve pain and stiffness.

Arthritis of the Hip

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common causes of hip pain. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that causes the protective coating (cartilage) covering the bone surfaces to wear away. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which causes chronic inflammation and cartilage loss. As the amount of cartilage decreases, the bones of the hip joint begin to rub against one another, which can result in permanent bone damage. Osteoarthritis is more common in patients over the age of 50 and often caused by normal friction, but it can also result from recent trauma. Patients of all ages can develop rheumatoid arthritis, and women are more inclined than men.

Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement is a highly successful surgical procedure that can greatly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from severe hip pain. The surgeons at Sports Medicine Oregon will use several different tests to determine if total hip replacement is the best treatment option. These tests will measure the strength and range of motion of the joint.

During the procedure, both the ball of the upper thighbone and the socket of the pelvis are removed and replaced. The surgeon then covers the removed areas with an artificial joint (prosthetic implant). The prosthetic implant is composed of both metal and plastic, and is designed to replicate the natural movement of the hip. In order to obtain the most natural fit possible, the surgeons at Sports Medicine Oregon employ minimally invasive and computer-assisted techniques to secure the implant to the bones.

What to Expect After Surgery

Total replacement surgery is an in-patient procedure, which requires patients to stay at the hospital for 3 to 5 days to assure a successful recovery. Approximately 24 hours after surgery, patients will begin working with a physical therapist to start walking and regain strength. Upon returning home, patients will need to continue to take pain medications and follow an exercise regimen determined by the physical therapist and the Sports Medicine Oregon team. The assistance of crutches or a cane will help greatly when returning to daily activities.

Hip Replacement Surgery in Portland, Oregon

The Sports Medicine Oregon team provides specialized comprehensive care to patients in the Portland, Oregon area, including Hillsboro, Sherwood, Wilsonville, and Lake Oswego. With seven orthopaedic surgeons specializing in sports medicine, the team at Sports Medicine Oregon can determine the best treatment option available to relieve hip pain. For more information about arthritis of the hip and treatment options, schedule an appointment with the physicians at one of the Sports Medicine Oregon offices, either at the Tigard, OR location, the Downtown Portland office, or the Wilsonville Clinic.