Hip Surgery And Knee Surgery - What To Expect

When it comes to hip surgery and knee surgery, individuals may feel overwhelmed. Is this something that will cause lasting improvements to your overall health? Many individuals require this type of procedure when the joints or bones within these structures become weakened. This can happen due to old age, injury, or disease. In all situations, the decision to have this type of procedure is one that doctors consider only after all other options have failed or have not fit your needs. Surgical procedures do have risks, but for many, these procedures can improve quality of life.

Discussing Alternatives

Often, doctors will discuss alternatives to hip surgery and knee surgery with the patient extensively before considering this option. You may take medications to reduce the pain, for example. In other cases, you may need physical therapy to help you to overcome the concern. For those suffering from conditions that are irreversible, such as osteoporosis, it may be necessary to pursue more invasive treatments. Nevertheless, your doctor is likely to consider medications, injections of lubrications and various other steps prior to making the decision for surgical procedures.

What To Expect

When you do need to have surgeries like this, work with your doctor fully to understand the concerns and the nature of the process. Your doctor should answer your questions and provide guidance about the pain and discomfort you will feel. The following are some of the most important things to understand about these procedures before moving forward with them.

- Discuss the process. What will be done during the procedure, and why will this be the best option for you?

- Determine whether or not you are likely to require an extensive hospital stay. Depending on your condition, you may be in the hospital for a short period of time and may move to a rehab facility if necessary.

- What types of limitations will you face when you come home? These may include, for example, limitations on steps, long distance walks and work.

- What are the options for pain management? Medications are often given to patients to overcome the pain of the surgical incision, but you may need additional pain relief measures.

- What type of physical therapy will you need after the procedure to get back to the mobility level you desire? This can take days or weeks, depending on the type of condition you have.

Hip surgery and knee surgery can be very helpful in improving quality of life. For those who struggle to get up and down or to generally get around as they used to, these procedures can be ideal. They offer an opportunity to get back to doing the things you enjoy doing. Of course, it is important to remember that each person's needs are vastly different.