As modern orthopedics have evolved, many surgeries that once were considered major procedures have become more frequent due to advances in technology and techniques. Today’s surgeries offer less invasive procedures, shorter recovery times, and better overall outcomes for patients. Joint replacements fall into this category of procedures. Once considered an extensive surgical undertaking, joint replacement surgeries are now regularly performed by orthopedic surgery specialists in Suffolk County, NY.
One of the most common surgeries performed by orthopedic surgeons on people over 60 is hip replacement. Hip replacement surgery has been refined so that outcomes are largely positive, and the recovery times are shortened when compared to hip surgeries of the past. They can be used to treat hip issues created by injury, advancing age, or general wear. Keep reading to learn why hip surgery is an important tool for both patients and surgeons in treating hip injuries and degenerative wear.
Better Mobility
If you’ve never had hip problems, you may take the work done by this large ball-and-socket joint for granted. The hip bears the weight of the human body, and its dynamic construction allows for many activities inherent in daily life, such as standing, walking, and running. When the hip joint becomes restricted in its range of movement due to injury, inflammation, or wear on the joint, it can make even simple tasks seem almost impossible. In fact, because your hips are important for tasks, including climbing stairs, hip immobility can cause many lifestyle limitations beyond physical activity. Fortunately, those who suffer from hip problems need not suffer from reduced mobility. Hip replacement surgeries provide an effective, efficient mechanism for repairing damage and restoring mobility. Hip replacement provides a mechanical amendment to the hip, restoring its full mobility and creating a greater range of motion in the joint.
Reduced Pain
Hip pain can be debilitating for those who suffer from it. In fact, joint pain can be so great that it causes you to forgo activities that once gave you satisfaction and joy, which can extend the impact of hip problems beyond your physical well-being to your mental and emotional state. The hip can be a source of great pain if it’s damaged, causing sleep disturbance, diminished performance at work, and other emotional stresses. However, there’s no reason to let it force you to suffer in silence. Hip replacement surgery can address the source of pain and help you conquer it. That will restore your quality of life and allow you to regain your peace and comfort.
Better Mental Outlook
Unless you’ve ever dealt with chronic pain, you may not understand the toll it can take on your mental state. Pain can wear you down, cause you to lose sleep, force you to abandon your hobbies and activities, and lead to depression. Compromised mobility amplifies those effects, since those who suffer from hip problems may experience difficulty performing everyday tasks and maintaining independence. However, undergoing hip replacement surgery can help amend your mental state and allow you to focus on positives. The improvement in quality of life will buoy your spirits because you’ll once again be able to perform routine tasks and pursue your passions in life.
Hip replacement surgeries have become commonplace in your local orthopedic clinic in Suffolk County, NY, largely because they have a high rate of success and can provide life-changing relief from a debilitating condition. To learn if hip replacement surgery is right for you, make an appointment at Peconic Bay Medical Center by calling (631) 548-6000.