By Deborah Westergaard, MD
Pain Experts
The Problem: Facing Hip Replacement Too Soon
For many patients experiencing chronic hip pain, the recommendation for hip replacement surgery can feel overwhelming. While surgery is sometimes inevitable, there are those who, like one of my long-term patients, wish to delay it as long as possible. This particular patient, a woman in her early 60s, had been told she was a clear candidate for hip replacement by her orthopedic surgeon. She was in the midst of planning her transition into retirement and wasn’t ready to take on the recovery and life changes that major surgery entails. Her symptoms were remarkably similar to my own—I had already scheduled my hip replacement after a severe injury completely tore my labrum from anterior to posterior. However, she wanted to explore alternatives.
The Solution: A Comprehensive Orthobiologic Approach
Instead of focusing solely on the hip joint space, we took a comprehensive approach to her treatment. During her procedure, I treated not only the joint space but also the surrounding structures, including the gluteus medius tendon, labrum, hamstring tendons and other supportive tissues. This was based on X-ray, MRI, physical exam and Ultrasound findings. This targeted approach aimed to reduce inflammation, improve stability, and address the root causes of her pain. Regenerative medicine treatments like these are designed to leverage the body’s natural healing processes to strengthen and help repair damaged tissues.
When she returned for a follow-up five months later, her results were remarkable. She shared that her orthopedic surgeon no longer considered her a candidate for hip replacement, and she wasn’t planning to schedule one anytime soon. While we both understood that a hip replacement might be in her future someday, her current 70% pain relief has allowed her to continue living her life without the need for surgery.
What This Means for Patients
For patients who have been told that hip replacement is their only option, this story is a reminder that alternatives exist. Comprehensive regenerative treatments can:
Provide significant pain relief (in her case, 70%) without the need for invasive surgery.
Strengthen and stabilize the joint by addressing not just the joint space but also the surrounding supportive structures.
Delay the need for surgery, giving patients time to plan their next steps and maintain their quality of life.
If you’re hesitant about hip replacement or want to explore options to extend the life of your natural joint, regenerative medicine could be a game-changing solution.
What This Means for Doctors
For physicians, this story underscores the value of considering orthobiologic solutions for patients facing joint replacement. By addressing the entire joint system—including tendons, ligaments, and other surrounding structures—we can offer patients meaningful pain relief and improved function without the immediate need for surgery. Regenerative medicine not only complements surgical options but can also reduce the burden on healthcare systems by delaying or avoiding major operations. By incorporating these treatments into your practice, you can provide more comprehensive care and expand the treatment options available to your patients.
Learn More About How Regenerative Medicine Can Help,
At Pain Experts, we specialize in comprehensive regenerative treatments designed to delay or avoid invasive surgeries like hip replacement. If you’re exploring options for managing chronic hip pain or want to learn more about how regenerative medicine can help, contact us today. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to address your pain, support your goals, and keep you moving forward.
Disclaimer
This post is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be taken as specific medical advice. Each individual patient is unique, and medical conditions vary greatly. The content shared here does not replace a personalized evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have a health concern or are considering treatment options, please consult your physician or specialist for a comprehensive assessment tailored to your individual needs.
Please note that some treatments or approaches mentioned may not be appropriate for all patients or may not be available in all regions. Always seek professional advice before making any decisions about your health or treatment plan.
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