Am I a Candidate for Hip Replacement

Severe arthritis or injuries of the hip can lead to pain, stiffness and disability. Medications, physiotherapy and the use of assistive devices may provide some relief, but these gradually become ineffective as arthritis progresses. Hip replacement surgery, which involves replacing the damaged or diseased parts of the joint with implants, may be recommended as a more definite option to reduce pain and improve movement. It is usually performed in those above 60 when arthritis becomes more severe; however, young people with severe injuries and other conditions affecting the hip may also undergo this procedure with good results. Hip replacement surgery also has certain contraindications. To find out if you are a candidate for a hip replacement procedure, please answer the following questions.

• Do you have pain while standing, walking or sitting?
  1. No
  2. Sometimes
  3. Mostly
  4. Severe pain
• Does pain affect your ability to perform your daily tasks?
  1. No
  2. Sometimes
  3. Often
  4. I am mostly dependent on others
• Does pain keep you awake at night?
  1. Never
  2. Occasionally
  3. Most nights
  4. Every night
• Have you had relief from other forms of therapy or with the use of assistive devices?
  1. Yes
  2. Mostly
  3. Sometimes
  4. Unsatisfactory
• Do you experience stiffness in your hips when walking?
  1. No
  2. Sometimes
  3. Require aids for movement
  4. Bedridden
• Do you have an existing infection?
  1. Yes
  2. No
• Are you overweight or obese?
  1. Yes
  2. No
• Do you have a medical condition that prevents you from undergoing surgery?
  1. Yes
  2. No
• Have you had any previous hip surgeries?
  1. Yes
  2. No