Over 25% of adults in the U.S. experience hip pain, affecting their mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, minimally invasive hip treatments provide relief with faster recovery, less pain, and better outcomes than traditional procedures. These modern techniques are helping patients get back to their daily lives more quickly.
At Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic, we specialize in advanced surgery and minimally invasive procedures for patients in LA and nearby areas. Our experienced surgeons use cutting-edge methods to treat hip pain safely and effectively, with personalized care every step of the way. If you're dealing with hip discomfort, we’re here to help you regain mobility and live pain-free. Schedule an appointment today to start your recovery.
Read on to discover more about what to expect from minimally invasive hip treatments and how they can benefit you.
Common Minimally-Invasive Treatments for Hip Pain
1. Hip Joint Injections
One of the most common non-surgical hip pain treatments involves corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections. These injections for hip pain help reduce inflammation or restore lubrication within the hip joint, easing pain and improving hip movement. Though temporary, they provide relief for weeks or months, offering a respite for those exploring further surgery or other treatments for hip problems.
2. Regenerative Medicine Therapies
Regenerative medicine techniques, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy, focus on repairing damaged bone and tissues in areas like the hip capsule. These minimally invasive techniques promote tissue healing and are particularly effective for early-stage hip osteoarthritis or soft tissue injuries. By targeting the underlying cause of a patient's pain, these treatments aim to relieve pain naturally, reducing the need for surgical treatment like traditional hip replacement surgery.
3. Physical Therapy and Assisted Exercise Programs
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of hip pain treatments. Guided exercises not only strengthen the hip bone and surrounding muscles but also enhance flexibility and balance, crucial for an arthritic hip. Paired with treatments like injections for hip pain or regenerative therapies, physical therapy supports long-term recovery and prevents stress fractures, lateral hip pain, or further surgery. These programs are tailored to improve blood flow to the hip and reduce the risk of complications like blood clots or joint pain.
4. Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive hip surgery often used for conditions like labral tears or structural issues in the ball and socket joint. Using just a small incision, an orthopedic surgeon inserts a camera and specialized tools to repair damage within the hip capsule or hip socket. Compared to traditional hip replacement surgery, hip arthroscopy recovery is quicker, with fewer complications such as blood clots or prolonged joint stiffness. It’s a great option for addressing hip problems while preserving natural hip movement.
Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a procedure performed to treat persistent hip pain and improve mobility when other treatments have failed. Orthopaedic surgeons typically recommend this surgery for patients with severe arthritis, hip fractures, or other degenerative conditions that make everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult. Advances in minimally invasive surgery have significantly improved the process, allowing for smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgery.
Before the procedure, a series of evaluations, including blood tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be conducted to assess the extent of hip damage. Depending on the patient’s health and the severity of their condition, anesthesia options such as a spinal block or general anesthesia are used. During surgery, damage to the hip joint is addressed by replacing the worn-out or fractured components with prosthetic implants that restore function while preserving blood supply to surrounding tissues.
Recovery times and outcomes vary, depending on factors such as the extent of damage and the type of procedure performed. A physical therapist plays a crucial role in guiding patients through rehabilitation, helping them regain strength and mobility in the affected leg. Minimally invasive hip replacement offers a smoother recovery experience, with many patients reporting significant pain relief shortly after surgery. However, adherence to post-operative care, including blood thinning medication to prevent clot formation, is essential.
Patients often consult orthopaedic surgeons when persistent hip pain begins to affect their quality of life. Whether the hip hurts from a degenerative condition or a traumatic hip fracture, the decision for surgery depends on various factors. Minimally invasive hip replacement or traditional surgery is recommended based on the individual’s needs and overall health, ensuring the best possible outcome for restoring mobility and reducing pain.
Recovery Timelines and Limitations
Recovery after minimally invasive hip surgery varies depending on the treatment. Injections for hip pain usually allow a return to normal wear and activities within a couple of days, while physical therapy requires ongoing sessions. Regenerative therapies, like PRP, can take weeks to show full results as they stimulate natural healing in the blood flow and damaged bone.
Hip arthroscopy recovery often involves a rehabilitation plan spanning a few months, though it is shorter than the recovery from total hip replacement surgery. For advanced hip osteoarthritis or severe hip problems, however, a more extensive surgical procedure like traditional hip replacement might be necessary.
When to Consider These Treatments Over Surgery
Minimally invasive hip surgery and other treatments are ideal for patients with early or moderate hip pain, including conditions like avascular necrosis, who want to avoid total hip replacement surgery. These options are highly effective for localized issues like ligament injuries, inflammation, stress fractures, or avascular necrosis, helping to relieve pain without the need for invasive joint replacement surgery. However, for severe joint degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or extensive damage to the thigh bone and hip socket, total hip arthroplasty may be the best solution to restore function and relieve pain.
Take the First Step Toward Better Hip Health
Minimally invasive hip pain treatments offer effective solutions with faster recovery times and long-lasting results for many patients. Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic provides expert care tailored to your unique needs.
Don’t wait to reclaim your mobility and comfort. Schedule an appointment with Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic today to explore our advanced hip pain treatments and take the first step toward living without pain.
