It is common, for orthopaedic surgeons, to see patients with functional limitations due to hip pain. These limitations are caused by a number of symptoms including: groin pain, aching, catching, stiffness, fatigue, and even pain radiating to the knee. The causes of these symptoms can be numerous and are often multifactorial. The appropriate workup involves a history and physical exam with radiographs of the involved hip. If arthritic changes are noted, a total hip arthroplasty may be indicated. Recent developments in surgical instrumentation, implants and techniques have been able to significantly reduce recovery time and the rate of dislocation.
It’s called direct anterior hip replacement, and you can learn more about it in our case study by Dr. Daniel Nelson.