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Advised Hip Replacement, Overweight, Reduced Weight. Any Other Option Other Than Surgery?
I was told I need a hip replacement because I have severe arthritis in my left hip. What other options do I have other than cortisone shots? My pain only occurs after I walk for longer than 25 minutes. When I am just sitting I do not have any pain. Sometimes after walking I will feel like my leg is giving out , but not that often. I am 61 and overweight I have lost 20 poiunds recently and plan on losing about 40 more. Will that make a difference or will I still need surgery?
How long can I postpone doing something?
How long can I postpone doing something?
Mon, 21 Oct 2013
Hi,
The arthritic changes in your hip causing the pain will not disappear however, certain lifestyle changes may ease the pain and/or stiffness.
Continue with your weight loss programme as being overweight will persistently put pressure on your hip. Pain killers will ease the symptoms but not cure the arthritic changes. Paracetamol and ibuprofen would be appropriate to start with, followed by opiate-based pain-killers such as codeine or tramadol. Using a stick can take the pressure off your hip when walking.
The aim of offering you a hip replacement will be to improve the quality of your life. Ultimately, it will be your decision whether these life-style changes provide enough improvement or whether you want to accept the surgical option. The likelihood is that you will benefit from a hip replacement at some time in the future.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB FRCA
The arthritic changes in your hip causing the pain will not disappear however, certain lifestyle changes may ease the pain and/or stiffness.
Continue with your weight loss programme as being overweight will persistently put pressure on your hip. Pain killers will ease the symptoms but not cure the arthritic changes. Paracetamol and ibuprofen would be appropriate to start with, followed by opiate-based pain-killers such as codeine or tramadol. Using a stick can take the pressure off your hip when walking.
The aim of offering you a hip replacement will be to improve the quality of your life. Ultimately, it will be your decision whether these life-style changes provide enough improvement or whether you want to accept the surgical option. The likelihood is that you will benefit from a hip replacement at some time in the future.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB FRCA
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