Friday, January 9, 2015

Avoid Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery can lead to increased pain and healing problems in many people. Sometimes hip replacement surgery is necessary, but it's best to delay or to avoid it, if possible, with the assistance of your physician.


Instructions


1. Wear shoes with thick soles and soft inserts. These will absorb some of the impact of exercise and walking on your hips, thus increasing comfort and reducing damage. You can probably locate inserts in a store or can get them from a physician or physical therapist. Don't wear shoes that are either too large or too small, as this will interfere with the therapeutic effects.


2. Use a walking cane if your hip is sore. Hold the cane on the side opposite the affected hip. This will displace some of the weight from the injured hip and reduce further damage while allowing healing.


3. Maintain a healthy weight. The heavier you are, the more work your hips have to do to support the upper body. Being overweight can cause damage or further injury to your bones such as arthritis or stress fractures.


4. Avoid smoking and excess consumption of alcohol. These substances deplete the bones of calcium and other vital nutrients used to strengthen and repair damage.


5. Visit your physician. If you have a hip injury such as a stress fracture, your physician may recommend calcium supplements to strengthen bones, or joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. He will be able to assess your situation and tell you about alternatives to hip replacement surgery.