Posted on: May 8, 2010
Every patient reacts differently to every surgery, which makes it hard to predict recovery time, surgery difficulties and post-surgery challenges. There are, however, things to expect with a hip implant that many people are confused about.
One of the most common mistaken assumption of a hip implant is that it is stronger than the bone it is replacing. Unfortunately, a hip prosthetic isn’t as durable or strong as the hip bone you were born with. It should, however, make a useful alternative.
The artificial hip joint won’t be as strong or durable as a hip bone, but it will provide mobility and comfort in normal day-to-day life. Many patients may not know that the implant will work naturally in the body with naturally-occurring synovial fluid that allows it to be subject to the same wearing motions.
The motions, however, may need to be modified to protect the fragile hip. Activities such as repetitive, heavy lifting, excessive stair climbing, high-impact exercise, quick-start motions, twisting, kneeling and sitting on low surfaces should be avoided. Patients will also need to maintain a healthy body weight and exercise with direction from their physician.
On average, the first implant should last 15 to 25 years, but each replacement implant has a shorter life span. The second implant should last about 12 years, and the third should last eight years. If your device doesn’t last as long as the average period, it could signal a problem with the device, and you may be eligible for a personal injury claim.
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