Hip Arthritis

[MadyMusic]

What can i do to prevent my hip arthritis from getting worse?

[MadyMusic]

Thank you so much!Here is what i DO know:the arthritis is "moderate."It is "osteo."I have a concommitant prob of a herniated disc in back(not TOO bad,but THERE!), and mild stenosis.Have not been sent to a rheum. as yet.Am presently involved w/a non-surgical pain clinic, and have had 2 hip(joint)shots, and 1 epidural:all have helped, but so far, i still need to get them(have 1 more epi scheduled for 4 weeks from now).Pain Management doc is sending me back to the orthop.who orig.recommended me to HIM for a reassessment...He thinks a hip replacement is in my future;doesn't know how long the pain management approach will work-
Can you help me at ALL?What is involved in a hip replacement?It frightens me!
Many thanks, Dr. Kaul.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, it would be difficult to comment on the situation or suggest a management plan without knowing the relevant clinical details such as the type of arthritis, its severity etc; or a detailed clinical evaluation. Management would differ with the type and severity of arthritis. I would suggest getting this evaluated by a rheumatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this helps.

Take care!