Direct Anterior Hip Replacement

Posted on

Jan 26, 2016

share-this
Share This
WHEN DEBILITATING PAIN AND STIFFNESS IN YOUR HIP
limit your daily activities, you may need a total hip replacement. The development of total hip replacement began over 40 years ago. In 2007, more than 270,000 people in the United States underwent traditional hip replacement surgery. Today, there are more options in hip replacement surgery.The most frequent cause of discomfort and chronic hip pain is arthritis. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. In fact, 1 in 5 people have been diagnosed with arthritis and two thirds of them are under the age of 65.When medication and other conservative treatments have failed, total hip replacement may be recommended. Total hip replacements help relieve pain and allow patients to perform activities that may be limited due to hip pain.Traditional hip replacement is the surgical replacement of the ball and socket of the hip joint with implants. There are three major components used in hip replacement. The shell replaces the socket and the femoral stem and ball replaces the top of the femur. In traditional hip replacement, an incision is made on the side on the hip, cutting muscle to access the hip joint and replacing the damaged anatomy.The anterior approach provides the potential for less pain, faster recovery and improved mobility. The technique allows for the implant to be placed by working between the muscles and tissues without detaching them from either the hip or the thigh bone. This allows for fewer restrictions, reduced scarring from the smaller incision and equal leg lengths.The direct anterior approach takes advantage of a specially designed surgical table and instruments that allow for easier access and less disruption of muscle and soft tissues. This allows for better alignment of patient and implant.The anterior technique also allows for the potential of a shorter hospital stay where many patients go home after an overnight stay. They return to the office two weeks after surgery, many using only a cane for ambulation. Some patients are not using any assistive devices at all.New techniques have provided improved functional recovery and exciting options for treatment for the hip arthritis patient. The important part is for the patient to recognize their symptoms and seek advice from trained professionals to make the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

This article was submitted by Dr. Kurtis Biggs, Orthopedic Surgeon at The Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, Fl. He can be reached at 239-261-2663 (BONE) or visit his website at www.JointInstituteFL.com for further information

Other Articles You May Like

Tips To Manage Arthritis & Help Seniors Live The Life They Want

Discovering effective ways to tackle arthritis later in life might seem overwhelming, yet by adopting some tips, seniors can effectively handle arthritis and improve their overall well-being. This article covers tips to manage arthritis and 5 Ways to Avoid Arthritis Flare-Ups.Navigating the challenges of arthritis as a senior may seem daunting. Still, with adept strategies and the proper support in place, it's possible to not only manage the condition but also preserve and enhance one's quality of life. In this article, we delve into tips to empower seniors in their journey with arthritis, from management techniques to advice on sidestepping flare-ups.Tips to Manage Arthritis:Stay Active: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining joint health and mobility. Choose low-impact activities that are easy on the joints, like walking, swimming, and bicycling.Manage Weight: Eating a balanced diet and staying within a healthy range helps reduce joint strain and improve physical function.Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being; getting enough rest can help reduce arthritis symptoms. Try to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night.Keep a Positive Attitude: Living with arthritis is a journey, and patience is essential. With the right strategies and support, symptoms become manageable, so favorite activities can still be enjoyed.Stay Connected: Because seniors with arthritis may become less active, it can lead to isolation. It's important to stay connected to friends and family for emotional support.5 Ways to Avoid Arthritis Flare-UpsArthritis tends to have moments when symptoms get worse, followed by periods when they get better. It's essential to be aware of what might cause flare-ups and take steps to avoid triggering them in the future.Take Medications as Prescribed: It's important to take medications as a doctor prescribes to manage symptoms effectively.Manage Stress: Stress can make arthritis symptoms worse. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga.Avoid Certain Foods: Limit foods that trigger joint pain and inflammation, such as nightshade vegetables, fried or grilled food, sugars, refined carbohydrates, full-fat dairy products, processed meats, salt, shellfish, and red meat.Overdoing Exercise: Staying active is good, but overdoing it can trigger flare-ups, especially exercises that involve the joints. Be sure to warm up and take it slow.Watch the Weather: Cold, rainy, or humid weather can aggravate joint pain. Use heat and pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as needed to help alleviate the pain.Comfort Keepers Can HelpThese tips can help seniors with arthritis stay healthy and avoid flare-ups. Our Comfort Keepers can help by reminding seniors to take their medications, maintain a healthy diet, and encourage activities that enhance mobility.At Comfort Keepers, we believe every person has an inner spark. It's something age and illness cannot take away. We go beyond daily care needs to nurture those unique qualities and bring about a sense of hope, connectedness, purpose, and, most importantly, joy.

Managing Arthritis Pain in Cold Weather

Managing Arthritis Pain in Cold Weather: Tips for SeniorsAs the winter months approach, many seniors find that their arthritis pain intensifies. The drop in temperature and changes in barometric pressure can lead to increased joint pain, stiffness, and discomfort, making daily activities more challenging. However, with a few lifestyle adjustments, you can help manage arthritis in cold weather and stay comfortable during winter. Why Does Cold Weather Affect Arthritis?If you suffer from arthritis, you may notice that your symptoms worsen when winter weather arrives. Although the exact reason is not fully understood, several factors contribute to this phenomenon. One key factor is the change in barometric pressurethe weight of the air pressing down on the body. When barometric pressure drops, it can cause joints, especially those affected by arthritis, to expand slightly, leading to achy joints and increased joint pain.Cold weather can also cause muscles to stiffen, restricting blood flow to joints and making it harder to stay limber. This reduced circulation can lead to joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the hands, knees, and hips. Tips to Manage Arthritis Pain in Cold WeatherWhen cold weather sets in, managing arthritis can become more challenging, especially for seniors. By incorporating specific strategies into your daily routine, you can ease the discomfort of arthritis and stay mobile. Here are some practical ways to help you manage arthritis pain and stay active during the winter months: Stay WarmOne of the most effective ways to reduce arthritis pain in the cold is to stay warm. Dress in layers, especially when going outdoors, and pay attention to your hands, feet, and joints. Wearing thermal clothing, gloves, and warm socks can help keep these vulnerable areas insulated. At home, use heating pads or warm blankets to soothe sore joints and muscles. Heating pads are especially helpful in improving blood flow to painful areas, which can reduce joint pain and stiffness. A warm bath or shower can also work wonders to loosen stiff joints. Stay ActiveWhile it might be tempting to stay indoors and rest during the winter months, staying physically active is essential for managing arthritis pain. Regular physical activity helps to maintain joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and increase flexibility. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderately intense physical activity each week. This can be broken down into manageable chunks, such as 30 minutes of exercise five days a week. For people with arthritis, low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent options. Even gentle stretching and yoga can help alleviate pain and keep joints moving. In addition to aerobic exercise, strength training sessions are important for improving joint support and muscle strength. These sessions, which can be done two to three times per week, should target the muscles around your achy joints to provide better stability and reduce the strain on your joints. Get Your Daily Dose of SunshineDuring the winter, we tend to spend more time indoors, leading to reduced exposure to sunlight and lower levels of vitamin D, often called the sunshine vitamin. Low vitamin D levels can worsen arthritis symptoms and lead to weakened bones. If you live in an area with limited sunshine during the winter months, consider taking a vitamin D supplement or eating foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and eggs. Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements. Use Heat TherapyAs mentioned earlier, applying heat can provide relief for achy joints during the cold weather. In addition to using heating pads, consider trying paraffin wax baths for hand pain or taking a warm bath to help relax tight muscles. For people with rheumatoid arthritis, these methods can be particularly beneficial in easing joint discomfort. However, be mindful not to apply heat for too long or use it on inflamed areas, as this may exacerbate swelling. If your joints are swollen, cold therapy, like using an ice pack, may be a better option. Stay Hydrated and Eat WellProper hydration is often overlooked during the winter months, but staying hydrated helps keep your joints lubricated and can reduce stiffness. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, as these can dehydrate you. Eating a balanced diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish, can also help reduce arthritis pain. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, for example, can help fight inflammation and improve joint function. Embrace the Cold with ConfidenceManaging arthritis pain in the cold weather can be challenging, but by taking proactive steps, you can reduce discomfort and maintain your quality of life. Remember to stay warm, stay active, and incorporate strategies like heat therapy and proper nutrition into your routine. With these adjustments, the winter season can be more manageable for people with arthritis.If youre struggling with your arthritis symptoms, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice to help you stay comfortable during the winter months and beyond.  VIPcare doctors in Alabama cater to the unique needs of seniors who are 65+. Our primary care approach is to help you get and stay healthy is focused on preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Contact VIPcare at 251-257-2886 to find your location and make an appointment.

The Perfect Gifts for Grandma

Gifts for Grandma, Grandpa, or Aging ParentsIts no secret that shopping for gifts for grandma, grandpa, or an older parent, can be difficult. A life well lived also means theyve probably acquired everything they need for their day-to-day tasks. Do they really need another stock pot, blanket, or screwdriver? Probably not. And those kinds of gifts are BORING with a capital B. Why not find something thats new AND solves a problem?How do you buy a gift for a senior who already has everything?The trick is to find a present that adds value and independence to their life. As we age, things that we took for granted in our youth become much harder as the years pass on.One such example that many seniors struggle with is the simple task of clipping fingernails. The standard fingernail clipper hasnt changed for over 70 years. Its small and requires a surprising amount of vision and dexterity.Now imagine youre a senior with advancing arthritis or decreasing vision and what used to be a simple task is now a lot more difficult. Maybe you have MS or Parkinsons and fine motor dexterity is an everyday challenge. Or perhaps youre fully capable of clipping your own nails, but want additional convenience. Or maybe youre a caregiver and clipping fingernails is low on your priority list. Any way you look at it, theres no right or wrong reason to want a bit of independence.In fact, there are over 50 million people in the US alone who have limited dexterity, strength, or vision. And tens of millions more who dislike the messy and annoying process of clipping fingernails. If your parent or grandparent needs help, theyre certainly not alone.Get them something that makes their life easier.Introducing the ClipDifferent Pro: the easiest-to-use nail clipper on the planet. Its easily one of the best gifts for grandma, grandpa, or an aging parent.The ClipDifferent Pro is a revolutionary, first-of-its-kind, automatic fingernail clipper that safely trims fingernails with the simple touch of a button. Its effortless, safe, leaves no mess, and is built to last.It includes FREE SHIPPING and a FULL GUARANTEE!It uses a bit of science, a bit of magic, and a few top-secret components that elevate the act of fingernail clipping from boring to holy cow!.Put simply, the ClipDifferent Pro utilizes a high-capacity, rechargeable NiMH battery to power a finely-tuned, patent-pending trimming mechanism manufactured with surgical grade stainless steel, to create the most seamless, clean, and nearly effortless fingernail clipping experience youve ever had. Dont Just Take Our Word For It Heres What Others Are Saying The ClipDifferent Pro is so simple and easy to use! Rollie Rodgers (Korean War Veteran and Living with Parkinsons) It gives me one more way to be independent. Rick Zeidler (Vision Loss) Ive won the war but its these day-to-day battles that we have to deal with. Rick Ebner (Living with MS) I think anyone will find the Pro fabulousespecially those who have challenges with fine motor skills. Geno Mucciacciaro (Disabled Veteran with Neurological and Central Nervous System Issues) Once you see the Pro work, its hard to go back to the old way of clipping your nails. Butch Donohue (Amputee/Limb Loss) Every home needs to have one of these! Tamara S. (Home Health Care Advisor) I need to buy one of these for my husband! Velma Hagar Ristaino (Author, Inspirational Speaker)