Hip joint replacement is a big decision, but for someone tired of consistent hip pain which makes them lose their basic mobility, surgery seems like the best way out. While in most cases, orthopedic surgeries are the best and only solution for permanent relief, the best orthopedic surgeon won’t recommend surgery unless necessary.
Especially in cases of major surgeries like hip joint replacement, a credible specialist will always consult with you and recommend the best possible outcome. This is where the choice between hip replacement surgery and physical therapy needs to be made.
Several factors need to be considered when deciding between a total hip joint replacement and Physical therapy. This article will highlight the comparison between hip replacement surgery and physical therapy.
Physical Therapy Vs Surgery for Hip Joint Pain
Not many people are comfortable with surgery because of several reasons. Some prefer a non-invasive procedure while others are scared of undergoing the long recovery route. Here are some reasons why physical therapy is better than surgery:
Physical Therapy is Non-invasive
Physical therapy is a procedure that involves moving joints and muscles to smoothen movement and relieve stiffness in the joints. It is an initial step to treating orthopedic pain and is often the first attempt, along with medications. Orthopedic surgeons recommend physical therapy in cases of chronic conditions such as herniated discs and chronic back pain.
Physical therapy is also practiced when there isn’t a severe injury that needs to be treated immediately. Also, for people who cannot bear the heavy costs of surgery, physical therapy is a helpful route to try. Especially in the initial stages of treatment when a patient isn’t capable of handling anesthesia or other complications, physical therapy can be performed before surgery.
Minimized Complications
Compared to a hip replacement surgical procedure, physical therapy has fewer risks associated with it. Surgery can lead to infection, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, post-operative pain, and a long journey to recovery. Whereas in the case of physical therapy, the focus is on natural healing along with some assisted practices.
Cost-Effective
Another reason why many people opt for physical therapy is how cost-effective it is. People with limited financial resources or not have proper facilities opt for physical therapy instead of surgery. Thus, physical therapy is useful for a wider range of individuals.
Can Delay Surgery
In some cases, the surgery is the ultimate answer. However, some conditions such as blood sugar levels, hypertension, affordability, or obesity can lead to a delay in the surgery. Physical therapy intervention for such kinds of people is extremely helpful and can help restore mobility temporarily until surgery becomes inevitable.
Tissue Preservation
Unlike surgery, which may require the removal or modification of tissues, physical therapy focuses on maintaining the body's natural structures. This is especially important for conditions where preserving tissue integrity is vital for optimal function. However, many experienced and best orthopedic surgeons perform surgery with minimally invasive techniques causing the least damage to the tissue and cartilage.
Faster recovery with physical therapy
Recovery from physical therapy is often quicker than recovery following surgery, especially such as total hip replacement procedures, which may seem surprising to some patients. After a physical therapy session, you can typically return to your daily activities, even if the issue isn't completely resolved. Moreover, any surgical procedure comes with its own recovery time, which can be shortened with the help of physical or occupational therapy.
When Does Surgery Become Better Than Physical Therapy?
The team of highly trained and best orthopedic surgeons at well-equipped facilities such as Swift Surgeries always offers solutions that are in the best interest of the patient. While we all wish orthopedic surgery to be the last way out, in some cases the surgery becomes a necessity. Especially for a major surgery such as Hip Joint Replacement, the choice has to be final when all else fails. Here are some ways why Total Replacement is the best choice as compared.
Restored Range of Motion
The benefit of hip joint replacement surgery as compared to physical therapy is that patients get a permanent restoration of motion. Which is not always possible with physical therapy. Physical therapy only restores mobility for a short span whereas surgery is a permanent solution with prosthetic implants that improve overall quality of life.
Quick Relief
A surgery is a one-time procedure followed by a recovery period. Physical therapy, on the other hand, is an ongoing practice. Physical therapy is also time-consuming and must be managed alongside routine. People who have demanding lifestyles can opt for surgery and serve a recovery period rather than opting for therapy a few times a week.
Removal of Damaged Part
The main goal of a hip replacement is to remove damaged or worn tissues, including cartilage, caused by injury or the gradual wear and tear of osteoarthritis. The hip joint is then replaced with a prosthetic ball and socket, which functions like a healthy joint. This procedure provides a fresh start by eliminating the pain caused by damaged tissues, allowing for greater mobility and comfort.
Better for Trauma Injury
While physical therapy is an ideal practice for chronic pain to mild injury, a severe or trauma injury is only treated well through injury. This involved accidental fractures, damage to connective tissues or a severe blow to the joint. A surgical solution fixes the joint whereas physical therapy won’t align the joint or broken bone to the right angle.
Also Read: Common Myths About Shoulder Surgery Debunked