The human hip is a physiological marvel! It's one of your largest weight-bearing joints, and as such, your hip must take on much of the "heavy lifting" work that you'll do over the course of your lifetime. When your hip is healthy it functions in beautiful fashion, enabling you to go through all the motions in efficient and usually pain-free form.

But in some cases, hips can become diseased or damaged over time. Arthritis, fracture or other degenerative conditions (such as aseptic necrosis) can turn that smooth operation into a source of great pain. A number of treatments, therapies and medications are available, and some can be effective in helping to allay the problem. But, in some cases, a hip replacement might be the proper procedure to follow. This is considered major surgery, but it can provide complete or nearly complete pain relief for up to 95% of all patients. While most hip replacement candidates are age 55 or older, younger individuals have enjoyed the benefits of this procedure as well. What factors help to determine whether or not you're a candidate for hip replacement surgery?

• If you suffer from severe hip pain
• If your condition is not relieved by administration of anti-inflammatory medications,
  use of a cane or restricted physical activity
• If you suffer from significant, ongoing stiffness in the hip
• If you are plagued by advanced arthritis

Should a hip replacement be a course of action you should pursue, be assured of this:
The orthopaedic experts at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital are ready to help. We look at every patient's condition from a highly individual basis, starting with an extensive evaluation that's often performed in conjunction with your primary physician. Taking into account issues such as your degree of pain, disability, overall health and age, we decide on the most appropriate course of action.