Know The Anterior Hip Replacement Restrictions After Surgery

Any person involved in an accident or suffering conditions like arthritis, and have their hip joints damaged, require complex surgeries to repair the damaged areas. Hip Replacement Surgery allows the doctors to replace the affected hip joint with an artificial one. The procedure involves making incisions around the hip. When the traditional method is used (posterior approach), the surrounding tendons and muscles are detached and reattached, leading to post-surgical pain. During the recovery period, doctors advise their patients to avoid some things. Here are some posterior hip replacement restrictions.

There are two positions every patient needs to avoid after the treatment.
The recovering patient must avoid crossing their legs after the surgery. Avoid bringing the foot towards the body as this brings stress to the hip area. Some surgeons will even recommend you place a pillow between their legs to keep the hips level.

The patient must avoid forward bending. Bending the hip for more than 90 degrees might cause some tearing around the hip area.

The surgery is a complicated procedure that affects the surrounding tendons and muscles. That is why a physical therapist will advise the patient to avoid stepping backward and placing full weight on the surgical leg. It’s good to prevent hip hyperextension that could lead to dislocation.

Doctors advise their patients to ensure the leg operated is not rotating externally. A lot of pressure is put around the operated area when the leg rotates externally. Once the area is healed, stretching exercises will be recommended that will bring the hip joint back to regular use.

Many orthopedic surgeons now use a newer approach for hip replacement called Anterior Total Hip Replacement. This method does not detach any tendons or muscles. The recovery is quicker than the traditional way, and there are no restrictions after surgery. Dislocations are also reduced. Many surgeons consider this a superior method due to the reasons listed above.

If you are considering total hip replacement surgery talk to your surgeon about using the Anterior Total Hip Replacement approach. It may be the right method for you. If you are interested in more information on Anterior Hip Replacement surgery, contact Dr. Dan Albright. Call 919-863-6808 to schedule a consultation.

Vital Information On Hip Surgery

When you have a hip injury that is causing overwhelming pain, you will seek a suitable remedy to alleviate the pain. Doctors will recommend anti-inflammatory drugs that will help control the pain, but sometimes the drugs may not work. After exhausting all non-surgical remedies, hip replacement surgery may be the answer.

This operation entails removing and replacing the damaged hip joint and replacing it with an artificial metal hip joint. The procedure is done to relieve the pain the patient is experiencing. It can be performed partially (only one part of the joint is replaced) or totally (both parts are replaced), depending on the injury.

Various factors may lead one to undertake this operation. This surgery is recommended when:

• a hip bone is damaged due to an accident
• a patient finds it difficult to walk
• painful arthritis is present
• the hip aches while resting
• there is constant pain in the hip

Before you qualify to have this operation, there will be tests and imaging done to pinpoint the source of the problem, and to determine is hip replacement is the solution.

The orthopedic surgeon who will operate will have a consultation with the patient before the surgery.  The doctor is focused on preparing the patient for the operation and determining if the patient has any medical conditions that may jeopardize the process. There are three approaches to doing this hip surgery, and the surgeon will determine which is best for the patient’s situation.

When looking for an orthopedic surgeon, one has to do some research. Any operation is a risky process, and thus you would want an experienced doctor performing the procedure. Verify the surgeon has lots of experience with this type of surgery and with the method and approach to be used.

For more information on hip surgery or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

 

How To Recover From Knee Surgery

Having healthy and robust knees is crucial when executing day-to-day activities. At times, accidents and injuries occur, and you require surgery. In the case of knee surgery, the recovery may be challenging. Depending on the patient’s physical health and fitness before the surgery, recovery may take anywhere from six weeks to one year. So, how can you recover from knee surgery quickly?

Exercise plays a significant role. For faster recovery, the knee joint needs to be active. Starting with mild exercise like stretching, you can strengthen the muscles and straighten the legs. Note that you should consult with a doctor or physical therapist to learn the best exercise regime for you. Doing strenuous exercises or tasks can lead to more harm.

Engage in physical therapy. If you feel that you require guidance on what to do, consult a physical therapist who will explicitly teach how to recover faster. Physical therapy is one of the approaches that will give positive results within a short duration.

Keep walking. Please do not assume that because you are recovering, then it is time to bed rest. In most cases, a movement will not cause you any harm. Walking is one way of strengthening your leg and muscles around the knee. Start with short distances a few times a day and then lengthen the distance as you grow stronger.

Ensure your knees are straight when relaxing. This position might not be an easy thing to do, but it is worth trying. When the leg is straightened, blood flows freely, aiding in your healing. Whether you are sitting, or in a wheelchair, learn to straighten your leg.

For more information on knee surgery recovery, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

Information On Direct Anterior Hip Surgery

Total hip replacement is an invasive surgical method that entails three or even four incisions in front of the hip. This approach ensures that the hip joint is replaced by pushing the muscles along with tissue aside. The process is done without detaching the tendons. Here is more on direct anterior hip surgery.

This surgery has a success rate of over ninety percent. The main reason as to why any individual would go for such an operation regardless of the approach is to relieve pain. This process involves getting rid of the arthritic bone and replace it with an artificial metal socket. The artificial hip ensures normal hip movement and function without pain.

This process has various benefits. First, you may recover quicker because no tendons were detached. The other added benefit is that you will not have any hip movement restrictions after the operation for the same reason. The patient will be able to go back to a normal daily routine after the operation with reduced risks. They will also experience less pain after the operation when compared to traditional methods.

The next benefit enjoyed when this technique is performed shows in the normal gait mechanics as well as a stable man-made hip. It is important to note that the ultimate goal is for a patient to get the desired results irrespective of the operational approach that is undertaken.

For the best results, a patient must take time in selecting the surgeon. The medical professional must have years of experience having been trained in a well-known institution. Talk to several surgeons before making a decision.

For more information on anterior hip surgery, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

An Overview Of Anterior Approach Hip Replacement

The medical industry is continually evolving. New research and techniques are coming out regularly. The best example of such an evolution is the anterior approach hip replacement surgery. Both the surgeon and the patient need to be knowledgeable about the process so that they can make the best decision.

The traditional hip replacement approach (posterior) involves making incisions through the buttocks muscle. This approach requires some restrictions during the recovery process because the tissue has to heal.

With the anterior approach technique, the surgeon makes an incision on the front side of the hip and moves the muscles aside to perform the surgery. This method has various advantages; for starters, the patient experiences less damage to the primary muscles allowing for a quicker recovery.

The next advantage of this technique is that a patient experiences less post-surgery pain. The main reason for this is that the major muscles are not cut during the operation, making the patient use less medication for the pain. The patient can go back to their routine quickly. Without restrictions, the patient can start bending and stooping as soon as the hip can sustain the weight.

Another upside to this approach is a reduced risk in hip dislocation. With this technique, the soft tissues, as well as muscles, are not disturbed, thereby preventing dislocation. The potential disadvantages of this operation are that it is not for all people. Obese, as well as muscular individuals, may not be suitable for this surgery.

There is a lot of information you may consider when you are deciding which option to choose when it comes to hip surgery. Research thoroughly to be in a better position to make the right choice.

For more information on the anterior approach hip replacement contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

Hip Pain Causes And Treatments For Sufferers

Hip pain most commonly stems from muscle soreness, tendon strains, and osteoarthritis. It can also be a result of tendinitis, lack of calcium, and slips and falls.

Distress in the hips can be a recurring issue for seniors and adults. However, there is a wide range of treatment options to alleviate the problems, including chiropractic massages, along with over-the-counter pain medications. Sufferers may also take anti-inflammatory drugs or receive hot treatments that soothe the hips and surrounding structures.

Problems with ligaments or soft tissues can also cause these issues. The latter surrounds the hip joints for optimal cushioning and normal mobility. However, they are not exempt from diseases and conditions like Bursitis or lower back problems. The latter include sciatica, which is a result of compression on the sciatic nerve.

Sciatica may cause radiating discomfort up and down the legs, buttocks, and thighs. This nerve pain can affect your hips and can require chiropractic or primary care examinations for relief. Bursitis is a result of irritation or inflammation of the bursa. The bursa is a sac filled with lubricating liquid between the bone and muscle tissues. While the bursa is designed to reduce friction, if damaged, the lack of lubrication can cause pain.

If you are dealing with chronic or recurring distress in the legs or hips, do not wait for it to go away timely and professional medical care can get to the root of the problem. Your primary care physician will due scans and imaging to see what’s going on in the hips.

They may also order a Doppler or ultrasound exam to check for blood and oxygen flow issues. These, too, can cause tension and stress in the hips along with bone loss and clots that must be addressed immediately.

For more information on relief of hip pain, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

Three Things That You Need To Discuss With Your Hip Replacement Surgeon

Much like knee surgery, hip replacement surgery is an incredibly grueling procedure. While an anterior hip replacement is quite a bit less invasive, major operations can entail a significant amount of downtime. As such, there are a few key things that your hip replacement surgeon should know before your procedure is started.

First, the state of your general health is critical. This surgery is going to place a lot of strain on your body. Your provider will need to know that your heart, organs, and body systems will be able to stand up to the stress. Make sure to schedule an appointment with your general doctor to have a comprehensive health exam performed at least one to two months ahead of your surgery.

Your provider will need to know all about any medications that you are currently using. This point remains true even if your regular doctor has prescribed these medications. Certain drugs increase the risk of uncontrolled bleeding, and they may additionally cause problems with blood clotting. You will need to discontinue these products approximately two to three weeks before invasive treatment as recommended by your doctor.

It is vital to note that you should additionally tell your provider about any supplements or over the counter (OTC) medications that you are using. Some of these products can have the same effects as prescription-strength blood-thinning drugs. These include aspirin and Ibuprofen, as well as all other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). You will have to find alternative forms of pain relief, and you should temporarily discontinue any aspirin therapies.

Any chronic health issues that you have should be brought to the attention of your surgical team right away. These will need to be fully controlled via medication or lifestyle adjustments at the time of your procedure. These include illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. You should not undergo any surgery until each of these conditions is completely stabilized.

To answer any questions about hip replacement surgery, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

Tips For Faster Recovery After Knee Surgery

It is vital to maintain strong, healthy knees to perform daily activities. A single fall can keep you from enjoying leisure activities or carrying out your everyday routine. An operation may be needed to resolve an issue and get you back to health. On average, it takes six months for recovery and up to a year before being able to do strenuous physical activities. There are several tips to help with a faster recovery after knee surgery.

If you have undergone ligament reconstruction, exercise helps improve balance, mobility, flexibility, and muscle strength. Low impact activities like swimming or cycling six to twelve weeks after the operation are recommended. This kind of exercise allows the body to strengthen without putting too much stress on the joint. No activity should be done without consulting your doctor or physical therapist.

For the individual with osteoarthritis, a replacement procedure may be considered, especially if there is severe pain involved. When simple daily chores become more challenging due to the damage, replacement may be the only option. Physical therapy is an essential aspect of a speedy recovery. The therapist will provide the adaptations and techniques needed to carry out daily tasks safely.

Immediately after the surgery, it is crucial to avoid squatting, kneeling, and excessive stair climbing. Following your doctor’s advice is vital for a successful recovery. If you fail to follow instructions, it can slow the recovery time.

A physical therapist can help you return to your best health and range of motion as soon as possible. Everyone recovers at a different pace, so it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor about any issues or concerns.

For more information on recovery from knee surgery or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

Choosing An Orthopedic Surgeon For Best Results

Orthopedic surgeons specialize in correcting deformities of muscles or bones due to disease or injury. They have years of extensive experience examining and diagnosing these ailments. From surgical procedures to corrective therapies, choosing an orthopedic surgeon requires some legwork and research.

There are multiple ways to begin your search. Asking for a referral from your primary care physician (PCM) is an excellent place to start. Your PCM will have access to the list of orthopedic specialists in your network. If you are not in a Healthcare network, the internet has numerous websites that rate physicians and surgeons in your area. These sites usually have patient reviews.

Next, you can go to the Medical Licensing Board website for your state and look up any doctor. The information on this website will list the education, licensing, malpractice cases, any action taken by the medical board concerning this doctor, and other specific details about the physician’s practice. Look for a physician that specializes in orthopedics.

Once you have gathered all this information, call the surgeon and set up a consultation appointment. You should approach this appointment like an interview – ask questions, confirm the information you have collected. Does the doctor listen to you and address your concerns? Do you feel comfortable with this person? You may have a long relationship with this doctor depending on your needs – make sure you find a doctor that works well with you.

These professionals work in hospitals and specialized practices. Orthopedic surgeons deal with arthritis, osteoporosis, recurring back and joint pain, and broken bones. They use scans and imaging, which enable them to pinpoint and address the areas in distress. Remember, just because they are a surgeon does not mean that surgery is their first remedy recommended. Most orthopedic surgeons will recommend, physical therapy, weight loss, pain medications, heat/cold therapies long before they recommend surgery.

Doing some research will go a long way in finding an orthopedic surgeon to meet your needs. The best results always happened when proper preparation and excellent teamwork.

For more information or to set up a consultation, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.

Important Things To Know Before Scheduling Your Knee Replacement Surgery

After years of dealing with knee pain and excessive stiffness in the knee joint, you may be ready to try a surgical intervention. Knee replacement surgery is a very invasive procedure and one that will require an extended period of healing. For these and many other reasons, there are some essential things that you should know before scheduling this treatment.

This procedure requires incisions, removal of tissue and bone, and various other, structural alterations; your doctor will want to make sure that your bleeding and clotting abilities are not diminished by any medications or supplements that you might be taking. Aspirin, Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are blood thinners, so these medications and others like it should be discontinued at least three to four weeks ahead of your procedure. If necessary, your doctor can recommend alternative forms of pain control throughout this time.

One of the most important things to know about these treatments is that they are generally considered to be best used as a final measure. You should always learn more about non-invasive and natural strategies that you can use to minimize your pain and preserve your mobility. You should take the time to consult with a physical therapist, chiropractors, and other hands-on practitioners before choosing to work with a surgeon. In fact, this is a recommendation that many surgeons make themselves.

You have to be in good general health before having this treatment performed. Good health means that chronic and potentially progressive issues such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are under control ahead of having your procedure schedule. Your doctor can manage these via the appropriate lifestyle changes and medication routines to limit the risks of undergoing an invasive and elective procedure.

All patients must have an adequate amount of help on hand during the recovery process. It can take six months or as long as one full year for a person to completely recover from this treatment and other joint surgeries like it. Throughout the very earliest stages of the related recovery effort, you’re going to need help with bathing, food preparation, toileting, dressing, and many other things.

For more information on knee replacement surgery, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.