The Most Common Orthopedic Surgeries Today

Written by hlisenby on June 9, 2023. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury, Hip Pain, Joint Pain, Knee Pain, Knee Replacement.

If you’re considering orthopedic surgery in Baltimore, you should know what your options are. You can always reach out to Ascension St. Agnes, our source for orthopedic surgery in Baltimore. You can schedule a free appointment to understand how to reduce your pain.

That being said, let’s talk about some of the most common types of surgeries available today.

Read More: How Hydration Affects Joint Health

The Most Popular Orthopedic Surgeries

Instead of a simple list of “The top 10 most common orthopedic surgeries” that you might find elsewhere, let’s narrow it down. Here are the surgeries most commonly in demand today:

ACL Reconstruction

This is one of the most common orthopedic procedures. A lot of athletes or even folks that are in their older ages look to get their ACL reconstructed. This is a major ligament that affects your mobility to rotate your legs, so it’s essential that it’s in working order.

Knee Replacement Surgery

At a certain point, a total knee replacement surgery is a great idea. It can help restore your damaged cartilage and free up your movement instead of it being painful.

After all, a lot of people have repetitive movement pain or knee pain due to obesity and other health conditions.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Getting your shoulder replaced can replace the damaged socket and give you a plastic prosthesis.

The tendons and ligaments in your shoulder can get worn out over time, so this is a very common surgery these days.

Hip Replacement Surgery

This is something called a ball and socket joint in your hip that connects your hip bones to your pelvis. That connects your pelvis to your femur, which is your thigh bone.

Hip replacement surgery can either use the traditional approach or just replace the damaged portions.

This is just an introductory list of the types of surgeries that you can get to relieve your pain. For a comprehensive list and for more information, reach out to Ascension St. Agnes today.

Unleash Your Mobility And Comfort Once Again

Reach out to the knee pain specialists in Baltimore at Ascension St. Agnes Orthopedics. At Ascension St. Agnes, we’re dedicated to your success in both your health and other areas of your life.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable medical experts will do whatever it takes to ensure you feel your best every day of the week. So contact us now and let’s build a healthy tomorrow.

Elderly Man Holding His Knee In Pain On Couch

Does Alcohol Cause Joint Inflammation in Arthritis?

Written by hlisenby on February 14, 2023. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury, Knee Replacement.

People often report that their joints hurt after drinking. What causes this pain? And does alcohol cause joint inflammation?

Read on to discover how alcohol consumption affects joints and arthritis. And learn how to alleviate joint pain with a joint replacement in Baltimore or other remedies.

Can Drinking Alcohol Cause Joint Inflammation in Arthritis?

Some people have heard that consuming alcohol in moderation can reduce inflammation. For instance Resveratrol, which is found in red wine, does have some anti-inflammatory effects.

That being said, does wine cause inflammation in the joints? And what about other alcohol? For example, does beer cause inflammation of the joints?

The answer is Yes. Alcohol causes additional inflammation in the joints of people who have arthritis.

The reality is that alcohol consumption is likely to do more harm than good if consumed in excess. This is especially true for someone with pre-existing joint conditions such as:

Gout

The inflammatory arthritis known as gout coincides with increased levels of uric acid in your blood. Beer, wine, and other liquor has high amounts of purine, which is a compound that causes gout attacks.

Osteoarthritis

This degenerative joint disorder stems from cartilage breaking down in the body. Inflammation caused by alcohol can worsen this condition.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

While some studies suggest that low amounts of alcohol consumption can help prevent joint problems, those who already suffer from conditions like RA are more prone to pain and damaging effects.

If you experience joint aches after drinking alcohol, then it could be an indication of a more severe condition. You should consult your doctor to determine the appropriate amount of alcohol consumption after a proper diagnosis.

Why Joints Hurt After Drinking

There are several reasons why alcohol can lead to joint pain including:

Dehydration

Alcohol removes water from the bloodstream. This causes dehydration and thus various joint and other pains.

Inflammation

Alcohol inflames the body tissues. This is why those with chronic joint conditions may experience even more pain after drinking.

Drug Interference

When prescribed medication to alleviate joint pain, there is a reason that the doctor will typically warn against alcohol usage. It can disrupt the medicine’s ability to relieve pain and even interfere with bodily functions.

How Much Alcohol Can I Drink If I Have Joint Pain or Arthritis?

The safe amount of alcohol consumption depends on various factors unique to the individuals’ health and joint condition. Communicate with your doctor about the appropriate level of alcohol.

Some patients find that an occasional drink or two during the week or on special occasions is okay. However, always use moderation while balancing your health with having fun.

Relieve Your Joint Pain — Get Help

If you are considering joint replacement in Baltimore, you should consult with medical experts today. That way, you can get your questions answered regarding alcohol, joint pain, and options for pain relief.

How Long After Hip Replacement Can You Walk Normally?

Written by hlisenby on February 6, 2023. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury.

A natural question after hip replacement surgery is “How long after hip replacement can I walk unaided?” – in other words, without a walker or a cane.

The amount of time it takes before you are walking unaided after hip replacement varies, because there is a recovery process involved.

But let’s talk about typical timelines to expect after hip replacement surgery, and answer the following questions in this post:

How long after hip replacement can you walk unaided?
How long can you walk after hip replacement?
How far to walk after hip replacement?

And if you have hip problems or are considering surgery as a solution, we’ll also tell you how to find specialists for hip pain in Baltimore.

How Long After Hip Replacement Can You Walk Unaided?

With a total hip replacement, you can often walk right away and go home from the medical center using an assistive device like a walker, cane, or crutches.

However, you will likely need at least 2-6 weeks while you initially recover before walking unaided after hip replacement.

Keep in mind that your physical therapist will be helping you identify your level of pain and comfort, as well as your gait.

In the initial weeks of recovery, your gait will not be normal, even if you don’t need an assistive device. As the weeks and months go by, you will see progress on a timeline that is unique to you.

Whether it takes 8 weeks or 8 months to get back to walking completely normally, it is important to be patient and listen to your body.

Walking normally after hip replacement will depend on several factors: the type of hip replacement surgery, your personal health profile, your commitment to recovery, genetics, and preexisting health conditions.

How Far To Walk After Hip Replacement?

Eventually, you will be able to walk longer distances after your surgery. However, for the first 2-6 weeks you should aim to keep your walking distance short.

Limit physical activity to your home, or nearby your home if walking outside. This can avoid damaging the site of your surgery as it properly heals.

After the initial 2-6 week recovery period, you can start walking longer and longer distances — building up gradually.

For instance, at around 6 weeks, you might start walking as much as one mile at a time, slowly adding more distance as you feel more comfortable.

How Long Can You Walk After a Hip Replacement?

Some patients begin walking for 20-30 minutes at a time within 6 weeks of surgery. But recovery can vary from several weeks all the way up to 12 months.

It’s important not to compare yourself with others. Instead, consult with your doctor and physical therapist to put you on the path for the safest way to achieve a speedy recovery and return to walking normally.

Solutions for Hip Pain – Baltimore, Maryland

If you have hip pain and are considering hip replacement surgery in the Baltimore area, contact Ascension Saint Agnes Orthopedics for a consultation today.

Woman Experiencing Hip Pain While Sitting In Front Of Laptop

5 Primary Causes of Hip Pain in Women

Written by hlisenby on January 9, 2023. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury.

Hip pain is a common issue that many women experience. Hip injuries can cause pain in the hip joint, groin, upper thigh, and buttocks. Pain can be caused by everyday activities like getting up from a chair or walking, but it can also worsen with overuse.

Below are five common causes of hip pain in women that you should know about:

1) Arthritis

Arthritis is a progressive inflammatory disease that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the hip joint. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in women and is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. It’s more common in people over 65, but it can also affect younger people who are overweight or have had a traumatic injury to the hip.

Some common symptoms of arthritis in the hip include:

• Difficulty with weight-bearing activities

• Pain that gets worse after long periods of sitting or standing

• Swelling and stiffness around the joint

Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, both of which can cause hip pain.

2) Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursae — small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints. It’s usually caused by overuse or trauma to the joint. It is more common in women who are overweight, have jobs involving repetitive hip motions, or participate in running and other high-impact activities. Bursitis symptoms include joint pain when walking, sitting for long periods, or moving the leg away from your body (like when getting into a car). Treatment usually involves rest, physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the joint, and anti-inflammatory medication.

3) Hip Fractures

A hip fracture is a break in the top of your thigh bone that usually occurs after a fall or direct blow. Hip fractures can occur with minimal trauma, often because of weakened bones caused by osteoporosis.

Women over age 50 are particularly at risk for this type of injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling around the hip area, and difficulty moving the leg. Treatment for a hip fracture may include bed rest, using a walker or cane, physical therapy to restore strength and mobility, and sometimes surgery.

4) Hip Dysplasia and Impingement

An abnormal shape of the hip socket causes hip dysplasia and impingement. Hip dysplasia occurs when your hip joint is not in its correct position, while impingement is a problem with the muscles or tendons surrounding the hip joint. Both conditions may cause pain when you move your leg away from your body, especially when trying to lift the leg up. Physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes can help reduce pain and improve mobility in women with these conditions. Surgery is sometimes necessary for more severe cases.

5) Hernia

A hernia is one of the common causes of hip pain in women. It is usually caused by a weakening or an injury to the abdomen area, which can cause the tissue that lies near it to protrude through the weakened spot. A hernia often presents as a lump or bulge in the middle of your hip area and can be very painful if left untreated. Treatment for a hernia typically involves surgery. However, lifestyle changes can also be made to reduce the burden of a hernia on your hips. These include avoiding activities that cause strain or stress on your abdomen, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating well. Additionally, wearing a supportive brace may help with pain management.

Call Ascension Saint Agnes for hip pain in Baltimore. Our expert team of orthopedic specialists is here to help you find relief from hip pain.

What To Expect With Pain After Hip Replacement Surgery?

Written by hlisenby on December 5, 2022. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury.

Hip replacement is a major surgical procedure that can restore mobility and reduce pain. After the operation, you may experience discomfort and soreness as your body adjusts to the new hip joint.

If you’re one of the many patients considering hip replacement surgery, you’re probably wondering what to expect when it comes to pain. How severe will it be? Will it go away eventually? We will explain what you can expect when it comes to pain after hip replacement surgery.

How Does Hip Replacement Surgery Work?

Hip replacement surgery is a standard procedure that can help relieve pain and improve function in individuals with hip arthritis. During the procedure, the damaged parts of a patient’s hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial ones made from metal or plastic components.

Ideal candidates for hip replacement surgery include those who have tried non-surgical treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications but are still in pain.

What Is the Pain Like After Hip Replacement Surgery?

The amount of pain after hip replacement surgery can vary from patient to patient. Here are the stages of recovery and what you can expect in terms of pain.

Immediately After Surgery:

Immediately after surgery, it is common to experience significant pain and need to take medications for relief. This is when patients will typically receive the most medication for their pain. You may feel some residual soreness at this stage, but it should not be uncomfortable.

First Week After Surgery:

The pain will gradually diminish as patients adjust to the new hip joint and begin walking without assistance. Patients may need less medication and should start feeling more comfortable. Exercise is encouraged during this stage, but working with your physical therapist or doctor is essential to avoid overdoing it.

Two Weeks After Surgery:

By two weeks post-surgery, patients should be able to do most of their normal activities and make regular trips outside the house. Pain medications are generally reduced significantly at this stage.

Three Weeks After Surgery:

At three weeks after surgery, most patients have returned to their usual level of activity and experience minimal pain. Pain medications may be discontinued at this point, but your doctor will decide the best plan for you.

Four Weeks After Surgery:

Four weeks after surgery, most people report only a very mild ache or soreness in their hip joints when doing activities requiring extra movement, such as walking upstairs or running. This is normal and should gradually diminish as your hip strengthens.

Tips To Reduce Pain After Hip Replacement Surgery

Recovering from hip replacement surgery is one of the most critical steps in ensuring a successful outcome. Fortunately, there are several tips you can follow to reduce your discomfort:

a) Physical Therapy:

Physical therapy is essential to ensure proper healing and recovery after surgery. Following the post-surgery rehabilitation plan, your doctor prescribed will help you restore mobility, balance, and strength in your hip joint while minimizing pain and restoring regular daily functions.

b) Pain Medications:

Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage your discomfort as you recover from surgery. Commonly prescribed medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids.

c) Ice & Heat Therapy:

Applying hot or cold compresses to the affected area can help minimize pain, swelling, and inflammation. This can be done at home using an ice pack or heating pad as directed by your doctor.

Call Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for the best hip replacement in Baltimore. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons and medical staff can help you understand the pain after hip replacement surgery.

Do You Have a Hip Injury? Here’s How to Tell

Written by hlisenby on November 9, 2022. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury.

If you’re experiencing hip pain, there’s a good chance you may have a hip injury. It’s essential to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of a hip injury so that you can get the treatment you need. An expert orthopedic doctor in Baltimore can diagnose and treat your hip injury and help get you back to feeling like new.

You should know some undeniable signs and symptoms of a hip injury.

1) Pain in the Groin Or Front of the Hip

You may experience pain in the area around your groin, located between your stomach and thigh. It may be localized or radiate down to your knee. You may also feel pain outside the hip joint or in the center front of your hip when you flex and extend your hip joint. This happens when muscles and tendons attached to the hip joint become injured.

2) Difficulty Moving Your Hip Or Leg

If you have difficulty bending your leg at the knee or rotating your leg outward, this may indicate a hip injury. Additionally, if it is hard for you to move from side to side or get up from a seated position, these could also be signs of an underlying issue. Pain or stiffness in the hip area can indicate trauma or inflammation, so it’s important to note any sudden changes.

3) Limited Range of Motion in the Hip Joint

When your hips are injured, you may experience difficulty in entirely moving your hips either up, down, or side to side. This is usually due to swelling, inflammation, and tightness in the muscles surrounding the joint. If you feel like you can’t move your hip as much as you used to be able to, or it feels uncomfortable when pushing it further, it may be a sign of a hip injury.

4) Swelling in the Joint Area

The joint area around the hip may become swollen and tender if you have a hip injury. This can be caused by inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the joint and increased pressure on the joint due to swelling in its surrounding muscles or ligaments. Pay attention to changes in your hip’s size, shape, and consistency.

5) Difficulty Walking Or Standing

Hip injuries can cause difficulty with movement, including walking and standing. Pain in the hip area when performing these activities is a common symptom. Additionally, you may experience an inability to move your leg outward from the body due to pain or stiffness. This happens when the hip flexor muscle is affected. Pain when shifting your leg weight can also happen if the hip joint is affected by an injury.

6) Weakness in the Lower Body

You may experience weakness in your lower body due to a hip injury, which can cause difficulty performing daily activities such as climbing stairs or getting out of bed. Your hips are essential for providing support and balance to your body, so if this becomes compromised, you may feel weaker than usual in the affected area.

Contact Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for hip pain in Baltimore. We provide timely diagnoses and treatments for hip injuries. Pain in the hip area is a common complaint caused by various issues, from muscle strain to arthritis.

When Should You Get a Hip Replacement?

Written by hlisenby on October 20, 2022. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury.

Hip pain can be one of the most challenging and debilitating forms of joint pain. It can make everyday activities like walking, sitting, or even sleeping uncomfortable and sometimes impossible. A hip replacement may be the option when medication and physical therapy no longer relieve hip pain.

Knowing when the time is right for a hip replacement can take time and effort. An orthopedic doctor in Baltimore will consider your age, health, and activity level. We will discuss the right time for a hip replacement and what to expect during the surgery. We will also provide a few resources to help you make the best decision for your needs.

1. When You Have Hip Pain That Interferes With Your Daily Activities

Daily activities like walking, sitting, and standing becomes arduous if you’re experiencing hip pain. If your hip pain is so severe that it interferes with your ability to do what you need or want to, consider a hip replacement. If you need a hip replacement, your hips will also be swollen and warm to the touch.

2. When You’ve Tried Other Treatments With Little Success

Some other ways to treat hip pain include physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and medications. If you’ve tried these treatments with little success, consider a hip replacement. When your pain is severe enough to continually interfere with your ability to enjoy life and participate in activities that make you happy, a hip replacement can help relieve the discomfort and restore your quality of life.

3. When You Have Difficulty Walking Or Climbing Stairs

The hips are an integral part of the walking process. Consider a hip replacement if you have difficulty taking short walks or going up and down stairs. The joint may have become too damaged due to arthritis or injury, making movement difficult and painful. A hip replacement can restore mobility and alleviate pain, allowing you to live a more active lifestyle.

4. When You Experience Joint Stiffness and Reduced Range of Motion

Joint stiffness occurs when the hip joint has become so stiff it cannot move freely. This condition can occur due to damage caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis and can cause the surrounding muscles and ligaments to weaken. When this happens, a person may experience a reduced range of motion in their hip joint. Moving the hip joint can usually be difficult or even impossible in severe cases. If you experience joint stiffness and reduced range of motion, consider getting a hip replacement.

5. When X-Rays Show That Your Joint Is Significantly Damaged

The normal wear and tear of aging, a traumatic injury, or a disease such as arthritis can damage your hip joints. You can identify whether or not you have a hip injury with specific methods. X-rays are often used to determine if your hip joint is significantly damaged and if it may benefit from a replacement. If the X-rays show that the bones of your hip joint have become very thin due to bone loss (osteoporosis) or if the joint space between them has narrowed, you may benefit from a hip replacement.

If you are searching for a sports medicine doctor in Baltimore, contact Saint Agnes Hospital. We specialize in providing orthopedic services, including hip replacements.

Types of Hip Replacements

Written by hlisenby on October 13, 2022. Posted in Blog, Hip Injury.

Your hips are one of the most important joints in your body for mobility and support. As you age, your hip joint may become damaged due to wear and tear or an injury, leaving you with pain that could limit day-to-day activities. To fix this problem, an orthopedic specialist in Baltimore may recommend surgery, which is known as hip replacement.

Hip replacement surgery is used to replace an arthritic or injured hip joint with an artificial joint. The surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone in your hip joint and replace it with a prosthetic. Several prostheses are available to choose from, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. Here are five of the most common types:

1. Total Hip Replacement (THR)

THR is a surgical procedure in which the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one. This surgery replaces the femoral head and the acetabulum (the socket). This procedure can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and increase the quality of life for those suffering from a damaged hip joint due to degenerative diseases or injury.

Read this blog to know: How to tell if you are having a hip injury.

2. Partial Hip Replacement (PHR)

Partial hip replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged portion of the hip joint is removed and replaced with an artificial component. This surgery can help restore mobility and reduce pain while preserving more natural movement than a total hip replacement. During a PHR, only the femoral head, or ball portion of the joint, is replaced. The acetabulum (the socket portion) remains intact.

3. Total Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing is a procedure where only the surface of the hip joint is replaced. The femoral head, damaged and causing pain, is removed and replaced with a smooth metal cap. The damaged natural socket in the pelvis is also replaced with an artificial piece made from cobalt chrome or titanium. This option tends to be suitable for younger patients who are too young for a total hip replacement.

4. Acetabular Hip Resurfacing

This method is similar to the total resurfacing procedure, but it focuses on replacing only the acetabulum or socket of the hip joint. The femoral head stays in place and remains natural while the worn-out acetabulum is replaced with an artificial one. This type of hip replacement is typically recommended for younger patients who may require a further hip replacement.

5. Revision Hip Replacement

This method is used when existing hip implants fail or cause pain and discomfort due to wear, tear, and dislocation. In this procedure, either partial or total implant removal is required. The new implant is then inserted and adjusted to ensure proper functioning. The anatomy, instability, and risk of infection are carefully evaluated in this type of surgery because it involves complex steps that can be more challenging than the initial hip replacement.

Signs You May Need a Hip Replacement

If you’re experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms, it may be time to consider a hip replacement:

– Persistent physical pain in the hips, groin, thighs, or buttocks.

– Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

– Pain while resting.

– Limited range of motion due to pain or stiffness.

– Difficulty sleeping due to hip pain.

For the best hip replacement in Baltimore, contact Saint Agnes Hospital. Our expertly trained orthopedic surgeons and experienced staff are here to help you decide which hip replacement suits you.