People rely on their bodies every day to walk, bend, lift, work, and perform other basic functions. When pain develops, it can seriously impact a person's range of motions and the ability to complete simple tasks. Pain can develop anywhere on the body, but it is especially common around the joints.
Hip pain is a big problem for many patients, particularly among the older population. Hip pain may be the result of injury, arthritis, or other joint issues.
At Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin, our doctors offer a wide range of services to alleviate hip pain, including hip surgery to improve joint functions and restore a wide range of motion. When hip pain is significant, we may recommend joint preservation surgery for the hips. Joint preservation surgery can improve joint functions and alleviate pain. Contact our Austin, TX practice to find out if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
What Is Joint Preservation?
Joint preservation is a treatment that is meant to repair damage within or surrounding the joint so that the body can heal naturally. This is a more conservative approach than joint replacement, and one that takes advantage of the body's own restorative powers. The goal of joint preservation is to get the natural joint functioning at an optimal level so that patients can, once again, move freely without experiencing pain or discomfort.
Joint Preservation Surgery Techniques
Joint preservation surgery techniques vary. Each procedure is customized based on the patient's age, health, activity level, and the extent of joint damage.
Whenever possible, we will perform joint preservation surgery for the hips via arthroscopy. This is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a surgical camera to get into the hip joint and make necessary repairs. While arthroscopy is an option for many patients, more traditional surgical techniques are sometimes necessary.
The actual alterations that are made during joint preservation surgery will also vary for each patient. Depending on what type of damage is restricting joint movement and causing discomfort, we may perform ligament reconstruction, cartilage restoration or transplantation, or bone realignment.
Benefits of Joint Preservation
Joint preservation corrects abnormalities that are responsible for joint pain so that patients can move more freely and comfortably. In suitable candidates, joint preservation surgery for the hips can put off, or even eliminate, the need for a complete hip replacement.
When possible, joint preservation is preferred over hip replacement because it allows patients to keep their natural joint, and it carries a lower degree of risks and complications. When we repair damage so that the hip joint can heal on its own, we help patients avoid potential hip replacement complications such as loose or failing implant devices.
Contact Us
If you are experiencing hip or joint pain, you may benefit from the comprehensive range of treatments offered at Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin. To learn how our experienced team of doctors can improve your quality of life, send us a message or call (512) 476-2830 to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.