Last Updated on February 27, 2024 by Shabnam Sengupta
Knee replacement surgery is a transformative procedure that aims to alleviate pain and restore mobility for individuals with severe knee joint issues. However, a surprising complication that can arise after knee replacement surgery is hip pain. This article discusses how commonly knee replacement surgery causes hip pain and if it’s serious to experience such pain. We will also explore ways to get relief from it.
How common is hip pain after knee replacement surgery?
In some cases, knee replacement surgery can cause hip pain. Approximately 15 per cent of patients who undergo total knee replacement may have persistent pain. The prevalence of hip pain after knee replacement varies from patient to patient and is influenced by factors such as surgical technique, individual anatomy, and pre-existing conditions. Hip pain after a knee replacement can be a typical part of the recovery process and it goes away as healing occurs. However, persistent pain can occur due to various factors, such as infection, and nerve or blood vessel damage.
The nerves in the hips are the same nerves that run through the knees. When a nerve is affected in the knee during a knee replacement procedure, this can cause pain in the hip.
Is it serious to have hip pain after knee replacement?
In most cases, hip pain after knee replacement surgery is not considered a serious complication. It often arises due to changes in gait and biomechanics as the individual adapts to the new knee joint. This altered walking pattern can temporarily strain the hip muscles and tissues, leading to discomfort. Typically, hip pain after knee replacement surgery diminishes over time as the body adjusts to the changes and the surrounding muscles strengthen.
How to get relief from hip pain after knee replacement surgery?
Physical therapy and specific exercises, including hip strengthening, gait training, and core exercises, can provide relief and help the body adapt to the changes brought about by knee replacement surgery. It can play a crucial role in alleviating hip pain after knee replacement surgery. Some additional recommendations include:
- Rest: It is important to give your body time to heal after surgery. Resting your hip can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Ice: Applying ice to your hip can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Compression: Compressing with an elastic bandage can help to reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Elevating your hip can help to reduce swelling.
- Pain medication: Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to help you manage your pain.
If your hip pain is severe or does not improve with these treatments, talk to your doctor. There may be other treatments that can help, such as injections or surgery.
In conclusion, hip pain after knee replacement surgery can occur due to changes in biomechanics and gait. While it’s not typically considered a serious complication, it can be uncomfortable for patients. Physical therapy and targeted exercises aid in pain relief. Consulting a healthcare professional or physical therapist is crucial for designing an appropriate exercise regimen that addresses hip pain and supports optimal recovery.
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