Hip »

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects over 10 million people in the US and is often caused by old age, obesity or genetic factors. Also known as degenerative joint disease, this condition involves the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage that surrounds the joints. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but most commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees and spine.

Hip osteoarthritis often begins with stiffness and discomfort of the groin, buttock or thigh that begins in the morning and worsens with activity. Eventually, hip osteoarthritis can lead to difficulty standing and walking, as well as injury, infection and bleeding within the joint.

Osteoarthritis of the hip can be caused by a previous hip injury or changes in the movement and alignment of the hip joint which eventually wear away the protective surfaces of the joint. While it begins with feelings of stiffness, it can also cause severe pain, tightness and a decreased range of motion. Bone spurs often develop, which further limit the motion of the hip and cause further pain that may be present all the time.

Although osteoarthritis cannot be cured, symptoms can usually be managed through conservative treatment methods or surgery if needed. Anti-inflammatory medication, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, cortisone injections and physical therapy can all help alleviate symptoms. Surgery for osteoarthritis can include arthroscopy, osteotomy or total hip replacement.

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Total Hip Replacement

The hip is a "ball-and-socket" joint where the "ball" at the top of the thigh bone (femur) fits inside the "socket" in the pelvis (acetabulum). A natural substance in the body called cartilage lubricates the joint. When the bone and/or cartilage of the hip becomes diseased or damaged from arthritis, hip fractures, bone death or other causes, the joint can stiffen and be very painful. A total hip replacement may be recommended for patients who experience severe hip pain and whose daily lives are affected by the pain.

In a total hip replacement, the diseased bone and cartilage are replaced with a metal ball and plastic cup. The artificial joint, called a prosthesis, may be cemented in place, may be cementless, or may be a hybrid of both. The surgery takes from two to four hours, followed by another few hours spent under observation in a recovery room. Patients usually enjoy immediate relief from joint pain after the surgery.

Physical therapy starts as soon as the first day after surgery with the goal of strengthening the muscles and preventing scarring (contracture). Therapy begins with the patient sitting in a chair and progresses to stepping, walking and climbing stairs, first with crutches or walkers and then without supportive devices. Occupational therapy and at-home exercises help patients learn how to use the prosthesis in everyday activities.

Total hip replacement is successful in over 95% of well-selected patients. On average, replacements last 15-20 years. Some patients enjoy full use of the prosthesis after 25 years or longer.

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Shoulder »

Osteoarthritis

Although the shoulder is not a weight-bearing joint, it is often affected by osteoarthritis as a result of overuse, age or previous injury. The shoulder is actually made up of two joints, the acromioclavicular (AC) and the glenohumeral, with osteoarthritis more commonly occurring in the AC joint. This is the point where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the tip of the shoulder bone (acromion).

Shoulder osteoarthritis causes pain, stiffness, clicking and a limited range of motion. It can also cause swelling and tenderness around the affected joint. Symptoms may be constant or come and go.

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through an X-ray or MRI, which allows your doctor to visually examine the joint for signs of wear and tear. Treatment for this condition often begins with conservative methods such as rest, over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, heat or ice, and dietary supplements in order to help reduce pain and other symptoms. Surgery to replace the joint or remove excess bone or bone spurs can provide longer-lasting results.

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Total Shoulder Replacement

Although not as common as knee or hip replacements, shoulder replacement surgery is a successful treatment option for people suffering from osteoarthritis and other joint disorders. This procedure was first used in the 1950s to treat shoulder fractures, but can now be used for arthritis, rotator cuff tears or osteonecrosis.

Like the hip joint, the shoulder is a ball and socket joint that provides a full range of motion allowing you to raise, twist and bend your arm. Replacement surgery includes the placement of an artificial metal ball and plastic socket.

Shoulder replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia through an incision in the front of the shoulder. The procedure usually lasts about two hours and requires a short hospital stay. Full recovery can take two to three months.

The replacement helps restore movement and reduce pain. Although successful and safe, joint replacement is usually reserved for patients who have not found relief from more conservative treatment. It is important to consider the risks of surgery before undergoing this procedure. Complications of total shoulder replacement include infection, dislocation and nerve damage. Talk to your doctor today to find out if you can benefit from total shoulder replacement.

Shoulder replacement (also called shoulder arthroplasty) can offer new hope for patients suffering from chronic shoulder pain. Shoulder replacement is the third most common type of joint replacement, after knees and hips. For more information, visit www.LiftMyArm.com.

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