Limitations

Hip Replacement

Most patients are able to return to normal activities and report they often forget they have had a joint replacement.

However, the mechanical nature of a hip replacement may result in dislocation. Movement too far in certain directions causes the neck of the implant to press on the side of the cup, which levers the ball out of the socket. It is therefore very important to develop and reinforce safe ways of performing your daily tasks.

To minimise wear of the joint replacement, and ensure it lasts as long as possible, it is recommended that you do not jog, run or jump from heights, which would accelerate the wear of the joint replacement. Although the implants are designed to last for many years, repetitive high impact loading may result in rapid wear of the bearing surfaces and result in revision surgery being required.

It is therefore a strong recommendation that you use, but not abuse, your joint replacement.

Knee Replacement

Knee replacements are usually more painful and take longer to settle after surgery than hip replacements. Patients need to work diligently to regain a good range of movement of their knee. Stairs and hills are best avoided soon after knee replacements, as that places greater stress on the knee and may cause prolonged irritation.

Most patients are able to return to playing bowls, or golf using a cart, but only occasionally are patients comfortable walking the length of a golf course or playing social tennis. Running and jumping activities are discouraged after knee replacement surgery to try and maximise the longevity of the joint replacement.

Most activities of daily living should be able to be performed without discomfort. However, it is uncommon for patients to “forget” they have had a knee replacement, so minor “niggles” would be considered a normal outcome.

First Consultation

At the first consultation Dr Freeman will take a thorough...

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Hospital Information

John Flynn HospitalJohn Flynn is a 317 bed, acute care...

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