total hip replacement in those under 45 years with osteoarthritis?!
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You should consult an orthopaedic surgeon on the matter. Depending on your level of activity you might need to have the artifical joint replaced in 10 to 15 years. (Kind of a catch-22, the more active you are the sooner the replacement needs replaced) Since you have osteoarthritis somewhat early, there is possiblity of having more than one operation. However, for many with the pain from osteoarthritis, total hip replacement is the best option for increasing quality of life. Hope is helps.
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I'm in a similar situation. I still run and work out but the last few years the pain ranges from acceptable to excruciating. I think the bottom line is that if we have the THR done at our age, we either "baby" it so it MAY last 15 years, or we can continue to be active and have it last perhaps ten years (or less). There is a procedure being done in two other countries where they slip in a "cup" that is supposed to be infinitely superior to what we're still doing here. I don't know if you saw the program; I believe it was John Stossel on 20/20. I'm not a conspiracist but I can't help but think we still do these barbaric hip replacements, which essentially haven't changed since the first one done (smaller incisions now that permit quicker recovery but still the same antiquated fallable joint installed), because of the huge profits being made by the three manufacturers of artificial joints and the surgeons that install them. I don't know what to do. There are days, as I'm sure you have, where the pain is so bad, I think I should just throw in the towel and get it done. I just know that there is a better answer out there. I guess I'm hoping this other method will get approved for this country, but I don't know if I can wait that long. I know that the people they interviewed for this 20/20 segment were thrilled with their surgery and actually saved money even after flying and staying for recovery because of the exchange rates/rice differentials. I'm leary of being a guniea pig though; ecpecially in Singapore.
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