Non-Surgical Treatment and Physical Therapy
Many hip problems may be treatable without surgery. The Hip Center at Hinsdale Orthopaedics maintains a philosophy that surgery should be reserved as a last resort when all other measures have proven unsuccessful in returning patients to an active lifestyle. Physical therapy is an important part of the non-operative treatment of hip arthritis and injuries. It is essential that the therapy be carried out by a therapist who is specifically trained and experienced in the area of Hip Preservation therapy.
Dull, aching hip pain can make a flight of stairs, a dropped set of keys or a low chair feel like torture. Fortunately, there are several non-surgical treatments you can try to reduce hip pain and, in many cases, they come with few side effects or complications.
Weight Management and Activity:
A variety of exercises may also be recommended to help you maintain flexibility and manage weight. Research has shown that exercise is an essential tool in managing your arthritis. Exercises can reduce joint pain and stiffness, build strong muscle around the joints and increase flexibility. Exercise is an important part of arthritis treatment that is most effective when done properly and routinely.
Physical Therapy:
Your doctor may recommend visiting a physical therapist. Physical therapy can be helpful in the management of Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). For example, a physical therapist may recommend:
- Isometric ("pushing") exercises to help build muscle strength without subjecting inflamed joints to excessive wear
- Isotonic ("pulling") exercises to further increase muscle strength and help preserve function
- Daily walking, using a cane or other assistive device as needed
The goal is to get you back to the point where you can perform normal, everyday activities without difficulty. Preserving good range of motion is key to maintaining the ability to perform daily activities. Physical therapists provide exercises designed to preserve the strength and use of your joints. They will show you the best way to move from one position to another and teach you how to use walking aids.
Injections:
Cortisone - Cortisone injections may provide temporary relief. These injections offer quick, effective pain relief; however, they can be used only a few times a year because they weaken bone and cartilage. Also, cortisone injections can cause other potentially serious side effects, so their use must be monitored by a physician.
Another non-operative measure which can be considered prior to surgery is PRP injections.
Non-Surgical Physical Therapy Articles and Links
