A hip replacement removes damaged parts of the joint and replaces them with prosthetic components. This procedure is more common than you might think, with more than seven million Americans living with a hip or knee replacement. If you notice any of the following signs, consult your primary care physician to see if you are a good candidate for a new hip.

How to Tell if You Need a Hip Replacement

1. Persistent Pain

Occasional, minor aches and pains in the hip are generally no cause for concern, as joints tend to lose some of their elasticity as a person ages. If the pain is persistent or extreme, it's time to see your primary care physician. Hip pain that may warrant a replacement typically occurs anywhere from the groin to the outer portion of the hip and is most evident with physical movement, especially when you step down on the leg.

2. Stiffness

There are three major ligaments in the hip, and when they shorten and lose flexibility, they produce increasing stiffness in the joint. A certain amount of this is due to the natural aging process, but if the stiffness severely restricts your mobility or range of motion, it might be an indicator of worsening osteoarthritis. People often feel the stiffness most acutely when they try to bend down, climb stairs, or move from a sitting to a standing position and vice versa. If this describes you, your primary care physician could recommend a hip replacement.

3. Inflammation or Swelling

Inflammation or swelling in the hip can have several possible causes, including inflammatory arthritis, bursitis, or just increasing friction in the joint due to thinning cartilage and the loss of lubricating fluid. However, no matter the cause, it is a sign of internal damage to the joint and can make even small movements difficult and painful. A hip replacement will undo the damage and restore your comfort and mobility.

Never ignore any of these signs of a failing hip. Visit the primary care physicians at Affinity Health Group to see if a replacement is the next best step. Since 2007, they have been serving the Monroe, LA, area. They provide comprehensive medical services, including primary care, physical and speech therapy, dermatology, and behavioral health support. Call (318) 807-4900 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to browse their departments.