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Beyond Replacement
Exploring the Benefits of Hip Preservation

Chronic hip pain can be debilitating, hindering your mobility and impacting your overall wellbeing. Traditionally, hip replacement surgery has been the primary solution for severe hip problems. However, advancements in medical technology have introduced a promising alternative: Hip Preservation.

Understanding Hip Issues: A Range of Culprits

Hip pain can arise from various conditions, including:

  • Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI): Abnormal bone growth in the hip joint causes friction and pain.
  • Hip Labral Tears: Tears in the ring of cartilage lining the hip socket can lead to instability and pain.
  • Early Arthritis: When cartilage degeneration is in its early stages, preserving the natural joint may be preferable.

Hip Replacement vs. Hip Preservation: Weighing the Options

While hip replacement effectively relieves pain in advanced cases, it involves replacing the natural joint with artificial components. Hip preservation, on the other hand, focuses on repairing or restoring the damaged parts of your own hip joint. This approach offers several potential benefits:

  • Preserves Natural Anatomy: Unlike replacement, hip preservation aims to maintain your natural hip joint, potentially leading to a more natural feel and range of motion.
  • Faster Recovery: Minimally invasive surgical techniques used in hip preservation often lead to quicker recovery times and less post-surgical pain compared to traditional replacements.
  • Potentially Longer Joint Longevity: Preserving your natural joint may offer a longer lifespan compared to an artificial implant, potentially delaying or eliminating the need for future revision surgery.
  • Ideal for Younger, Active Individuals: Hip preservation is often recommended for younger, active patients who desire a high level of function and mobility.

Who is a Candidate for Hip Preservation?

Ideal candidates for hip preservation typically have:

  • Diagnoses like FAI, labral tears, or early-stage arthritis
  • Relatively good bone quality
  • Active lifestyles

Moving Forward with an Active Lifestyle

Hip preservation can be a game-changer for individuals suffering from hip pain. By potentially restoring your natural joint function and offering a quicker recovery, this innovative approach may empower you to return to the activities you love and live a more active, pain-free life. Remember, this blog post provides general information, and consulting a qualified healthcare professional is essential for personalized advice.

Considering Hip Preservation? Consult a Hip Specialist

If chronic hip pain is impacting your life, discuss hip preservation with us. Our team of experts can assess your specific condition, determine if you're a candidate, and discuss the potential risks and benefits compared to other treatment options, including hip replacement.