I've had a hip replacement for two years, but I still feel uncomfortable. Why is that?

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Chen Jian

Introduction

It has been two years since the hip joint replacement, but discomfort persists, possibly due to weight gain, loosening of the hip prosthesis, muscle atrophy, periprosthetic infection, or joint stiffness. Weight gain increases the burden on the hip joint, accelerates joint wear, and affects joint stability and function, leading to discomfort. Weight control through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise is recommended to maintain a healthy weight.

Generally, if there is persistent discomfort two years after hip joint replacement, it may be caused by weight gain, loosening of the hip prosthesis, muscle atrophy, infection around the hip prosthesis, joint stiffness, and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Weight Gain

Weight gain increases the burden on the hip joint, accelerates joint wear, and affects joint stability and function, leading to discomfort. Control body weight by maintaining a reasonable diet and engaging in appropriate physical activity to stay within a healthy weight range.

2. Loosening of the Hip Prosthesis

Loosening of the prosthesis occurs when the components of the replaced joint are not firmly attached to the bone tissue, resulting in decreased joint stability and causing the aforementioned symptoms, such as pain and joint noise. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as ibuprofen capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, isoniazid tablets, etc., for treatment.

3. Muscle Atrophy

During the recovery phase after hip joint replacement surgery, if essential physical therapy and exercise are lacking, the muscles surrounding the hip joint may weaken and decrease in mass, resulting in reduced joint support and a feeling of discomfort. Regularly perform rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint, such as low-impact activities like swimming and cycling.

4. Infection Around the Hip Prosthesis

Infection may be caused by contamination during surgery, improper postoperative care, or a decline in the patient's immunity, leading to inflammation and damage of tissues surrounding the joint, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as swelling and fever. Follow medical advice to use medications such as ganciclovir capsules, foscarnet sodium and sodium chloride injection, valganciclovir hydrochloride tablets, etc., for treatment.

5. Joint Stiffness

During the healing process of the surgical wound, insufficient movement may cause adhesions in the joint capsule and surrounding soft tissues, limiting the normal range of joint motion and causing discomfort. Undergo physical therapy, such as heat application, ultrasound therapy, etc., to help loosen the adhesions and improve joint flexibility.

Maintain a balanced diet and consume more protein-rich foods, as well as foods high in vitamins and minerals, to enhance immune function and promote recovery.

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