Hip Injuries

Orthopaedic Treatment for Hip Conditions

Many people need hip joint replacement at some point in their lives. It is a particularly common procedure for people between the ages of 50 and 80, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The hip joint is a “ball and socket” joint. The “ball” is the femoral head, which is found at the top of the thighbone. It rests in the socket, made of bone and cartilage. Over time, this joint may become damaged, often due to arthritis. When conventional treatments fail, such as physical therapy, support equipment, braces, or medications, your doctor may encourage you to look into hip replacement.

Hip Joint Replacement

A hip replacement contains four parts:

• The metal socket
• The metal rod stabilizing the thigh bone
• The liner to support and facilitate movement
• The metal / ceramic ball which acts as the femoral head, and which is attached to the metal rod

There are various other options to consider when it comes to your hip replacement surgery. For example, you may choose a cemented joint prosthesis or uncemented bone prosthesis, or a muscle sparing hip replacement through anterior or posterior.

Ask your Fremont orthopaedic surgeon at Washington Township Medical Foundation Orthopaedics about these and other issues of concern you may have.