Tag: Orthopedic

20 Mar 2023
knee replacement surgeries drastically

Knee replacement surgeries have gone up drastically in India

Knee replacement surgery is a medical procedure to remove the original damaged knees and put them in artificial joints. The number of Knee replacement surgeries in India has arisen. It can be attributed to factors like the increased population in the ageing category, better healthcare facilities and higher amount of physical activity. Knee replacement surgery is also known as knee arthroplasty. 

The prime reason for the increase in demand for Knee replacement surgeries is the increase in the number of people in the ageing category. With age, the chances of knee damage due to osteoarthritis increase. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes stiffness and pain and interferes with daily activities. These have made the demand for the best knee replacement surgery in India grow more than ever. With more people in the elderly category, people are looking for the best knee replacement surgeon to regain their normal lifestyle. People are mostly in search of a hospital providing the best surgery with a high success rate and has some of the best doctors in their team. 

Another reason for the higher demand for knee replacement surgeries is the increase in the level of physical activity. Nowadays, people are more concerned about their health, so activities like exercising, cycling, running, and sports are a part of their routine. The continuous pressure on the knees has led to faster wear and tear and, thus, the need to get the best knee replacement surgery in India. It can also be seen in the younger patients who do not want to be restrained by knee damage in their upcoming years of life. Thus, the trend of being physically active and sports in India has opened an avenue for the growing demand for the best knee replacement surgeons.

The accessibility to better medical facilities is also a crucial reason for the increased demand for Knee replacement surgeries. Earlier, knee replacement surgery was a complex and costly procedure accessible to the higher society people only. With the growth of the medical tourism industry and the facilities being provided, people are more concerned about their health and eager to seek treatment to treat their ailments. The increase in the number of some of the best knee replacement surgeons and specialty hospitals has led to higher awareness among the people about their condition and how to treat it without thinking of the financial aspect.

Yet the higher rates of knee replacement surgery are the prime hindrance for many Indians. Many Indians do not have medical insurance or reside in rural areas. Hence, the procedure still needs to be made available to many of India. The government of India is working on the healthcare facilities and accessibility of the patients to ensure the needy get the required treatment. It is through financial assistance and the setting up hospitals for the rural population. Those who need the treatment are getting assisted through government initiatives. These government schemes and associates have helped many patients and eased their financial burden. 

Thus, we can say that despite the constraints, the demand for knee replacement surgeries in India has increased exponentially due to a combination of a variety of reasons, such as a higher number of people in the senior age category, higher levels of sports and physical activities and better services and medical accessibility. Even though the cost of the knee replacement surgery is a reason behind it not being chosen by many, there are several ways by which you can go forward with the surgery and free your life from the pain.

In case you are experiencing knee pain, consult a doctor and discuss the cause of the pain and the procedure for treatment. With the increasing need for knee replacement surgery in the country, doctors and the government are taking initiatives to make it easier for people to get the procedure for those in need. Thus, no need to surf and live a life of pain and suffering; consult your doctor and go forward with one of the best knee replacement surgery to live life on your terms. 

If you are looking for a hospital for knee replacement surgery, then you should visit Germanten Hospital. It has all the availability for conducting safe and effective surgery. So, book your appointment now!

 

05 Mar 2023
10 massges and streches

10 Massages and Stretches for a Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder massage treatment is required in case your shoulder has lost mobility to the extent it feels like it is frozen in place. The loss of mobility makes it difficult to continue with daily activities and causes pain during movements.

For frozen shoulder massage treatment, you should begin with complete massage therapy for frozen shoulder. Consult a doctor and a physiotherapist for proper guidance and recovery.

Frozen shoulder is caused due to triggering of myofascial points in the shoulder muscles and surrounding areas. These trigger points are muscle knots or lumps in sensitive regions due to injury, accident, or pain due to another chronic condition. Capsular stretching for frozen shoulders reduces pain and improves motion and muscle strength. These frozen shoulder massage techniques would also work on the trigger points and subsequently improve blood circulation, reduce spasms, and relieve symptoms. 

There are specific trigger points which affect the frozen shoulder. Gaining knowledge about these points and their locations in the arms and shoulders helps to understand how to use capsular stretching for frozen shoulders. 

Massages for frozen shoulder

Before starting any Shoulder stretches for frozen shoulder on your own, consult your doctor. The physical therapist would guide you through the postures and stretches. They will ensure that the frozen shoulder massage is done correctly, as incorrect massages can worsen the situation.

It is better to have a professional therapist to guide you. You can begin with a self massage for frozen shoulder and follow these messages. 

Foam roller underarm massage:

You can start with this stretching exercise for frozen shoulder by following these steps:

Place a foam roller under the underarm of the affected shoulder

  • rest your arm on the floor
  • Lengthen your arm
  • Slowly roll back and forth over the roller
  • Continue for a minute 

Foam roller shoulder massage:

  • Place a foam roller under the underarm of the affected shoulder
  • Lengthen your arm with the hand extended upwards
  • Move over the roller a few times

Simple self-massage:

  • Use your other hand for massage therapy for frozen shoulders
  • Focus on the sensitive regions
  • Try to move about the affected shoulder while massaging the shoulder and arm simultaneously 

Stretches for frozen shoulder

Warm up your shoulder muscles before beginning with shoulder stretches for frozen shoulders. You can do it by taking a warm shower or a bath. You can also use a heating pad. 

Gently start with capsular stretching for frozen shoulders to an extent where you are comfortable. Do not force any movement and gradually progress by repeating the movement multiple times in a day.

You can start with some of these best stretches for frozen shoulder for your recovery.

Pendulum swing:

  • Stand straight and keep your unaffected hand on the edge of a table
  • Lean forward while maintaining balance 
  • Start by swinging your arm back and forth in a circular motion in both directions
  • Repeat at least ten times

Cross-body stretch:

  • Stand and place your affected arm on the other shoulder
  • With the other unaffected arm, press the affected elbow closer to your body 
  • Stay in this position for a few seconds and hold as long as possible
  • Repeat five times 

Umbrella push:

  • Sit in a chair with the elbows resting on the side of the chair
  • Use an overhand grip to hold an umbrella 
  • With the help of the unaffected arm, push the affected arm to the other side
  • Maintain the elbow of the affected arm towards your side
  • Repeat the process and do it at least five times.

Advantages of stretching exercises

Doing stretching exercises for frozen shoulder would prove highly beneficial to improve the condition in the following ways:

  • The massage helps to release tension and tightness of the muscles, thereby relaxing them. You would feel at ease in motion and use. It also enhances the blood flow in the area and increases the speed of healing.
  • Stretching exercises for frozen shoulders also improve flexibility and extent of motion and lengthens muscle fibres.

However, while doing self massage for frozen shoulders, be careful as these movements can also increase pain. With proper guidance, these exercises would improve the equality of your daily life activities. If you are facing a frozen shoulder issue, then visit Germanten Hospital now. 

 

22 Feb 2023
knee replacement revision surgery

What Is Knee Replacement Revision Surgery?

What is knee revision surgery?

 

When the knee replacement surgery stops functioning correctly, a revision knee replacement surgery is performed. This surgical procedure involves the replacement of the old device with a new one.

One should take revision surgery seriously. It is supposed to be more complicated than a primary total knee replacement. Moreover, it involves almost the same risks. It is estimated that many total knee revision surgeries occur within two years of the initial knee replacement. 

What makes revision knee replacement more complicated than initial surgery? 

The initial knee replacement provides a lifespan of around 20 years, but the same is not true for revision knee replacement surgery. The performance gets reduced by accumulated trauma, scar tissue, and mechanical breakdown of components. Moreover, the chances of complications are also high. 

The complications arise as the best knee revision surgeons have to remove the original implant, which grows into the existing bone at a given time. Also, with the removal of the prosthesis, only a little bone remains. 

In some instances, a bone graft is required for a new prosthesis. It involves transplanting a piece of bone from another part of the body or a donor.

Bone graft provides support and leads to new bone growth. The procedure requires additional preoperative planning, specialised tools, and exceptional surgical skill. It takes much more time to perform knee replacement revision surgery than a primary initial knee replacement.

You will find some specific symptoms that indicate the need for knee replacement revision surgery. These include:

  • Reduced stability or function in the knee
  • increased pain or an infection 
  • a bone fracture or implant device failure
  • Pieces of the prosthetic device can break off, and the particles can accumulate around the joint.

 

Reasons for a Revision Knee Replacement 

Short-term revisions: Infection, failed procedure that leads to implant loosening, or a mechanical failure

Infection can start showing itself within days or weeks of surgery. It can also occur many years after surgery. 

Infection after the knee replacement generates severe complications. The bacteria that accumulates around the wound or inside the device is the reason for this Infection. It can also be caused by contaminated instruments or by items in the operating room. However, Infection is rarely caused in the operating room as extreme precautions are taken. Infection buildup fluids, and hence a total or partial knee revision surgery is required.

Unusual swelling, tenderness, or fluid leakage are the signs of Infection, and one should immediately contact the best knee revision surgeons. Your surgeon will examine your knee, which includes X-rays and other imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans. It provides information about bone loss and determines if you are suitable for a knee replacement revision surgery.

An aspiration procedure is performed if fluid buildup around the artificial knee. The fluid is examined in the lab to understand the type of Infection and if other treatment steps are in order.

Long-term revisions: pain, loosening due to wear of mechanical components, stiffness, dislocation

Long-term wear and tear of the implant occur over the years. A well-researched statistics on the long-term knee revision surgery rates for knee replacement showed results of 2 per cent for five or more years in 2004. As of 2011, the revision rate is 6 per cent after five years and 12 per cent after ten years. It has also been found that the rate of total and partial knee revision surgery for all age groups within five years of surgery is about 77 per cent. This rate increases to 10 per cent for patients 65 and older.

The long-term total knee revision rates data varies due to several factors, such as age. The chances for revision are lower for younger people. To reduce future problems, try to maintain weight and not indulge in activities such as running, jumping, and high-impact aerobics that cause stress on the joint. 

The aseptic loosening procedure breaks the bond between the bone and the implant as the body attempts to digest the particles. At this time, the body begins to digest bone, known as osteolysis. This causes weakened bone, fracture, or problems with the original implant.

 

Visit Germanten Hospital now if you are looking for the best knee revision surgeons.  

 

13 Feb 2023

5 Tips for a Successful Total Hip Replacement Recovery

Hip replacement surgery recovery tips

A hip replacement is one of the common and life-altering operations. It helps patients get back to normal life and improves their quality of life. Suppose you are considering or have undergone hip surgery. In that case, you should know about the important hip replacement tips that can help you understand how to support yourself during the recovery phase.

Here are some of the hip replacement recovery tips recommended by specialists to help with successful recovery from hip surgery:

  • Prepare your home in advance

    Before surgery, one of the basic hip replacement recovery tips is rearranging your home to access all the necessities easily. Most importantly you will have to reorganise your kitchen and bathroom. Keep all the important things at the waist level and within easy reach.

    After coming home from surgery, you will need assistance with household chores like cleaning, cooking and shopping. Talk to your friend or family in advance to help you out for a few weeks after the surgery.

    Another hip replacement surgery recovery tips is to go shopping before surgery to buy a perching stool or chair. You will need it to move around and complete tasks. The perching stool has a seat that slopes and also has armrests. Using this type of stool can make the everyday activity less strenuous. 

  • Take some time off from work.

    The recovery time depends on how you manage the phase and what hip replacement surgery recovery tips you follow. Giving yourself enough time to recover before continuing your regular activities is very important. It is expected to have three months for rehabilitation after the operation. If you have a physically demanding job, your return to work may take longer.

    Moreover, your travel convenience is also a factor to consider while looking for hip surgery recovery tips. It is best to explore a different way of working for a smoother and quicker recovery. Plan this before the surgery to avoid any issues after the operation.

  • Rest, recovery and gentle exercise

    Patients tend to minimise their movement as much as possible after the surgery. Though taking adequate rest for recovery is important, moving is also important. If you stay still for too long, your body can become stiff, impacting your recovery and increasing the time.

    Therefore one should do gentle exercises like short, gentle walks in and around your home. Supervised physiotherapy, like rehabilitation programmes and hydrotherapy, includes hip surgery recovery tips.

    Consult your orthopaedic care team to support you with exercises. It is important not to overdo exercise as it could lead to more pain and loss of confidence. Hence a balance between rest and exercise is vital.

 

  • Nutrition plays a major role.

    A healthy and balanced diet is a key hip surgery recovery tip. After surgery, the body needs to heal, and for that, it needs a varied diet. It boosts the healing process. Nutrients such as protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals must be present in your diet. Moreover, one should not try to attempt weight loss during recovery.

  • Think about your holidays and travel plans

 

  • Lying

    For the first six weeks after surgery, you should refrain from flying. You can fly short-haul after some time, but long-haul should completely be avoided for three months. Sitting for too long can increase the chances of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in your legs.

 

  • Driving

    This is the basic hip replacement recovery tips you should follow if you drive. You should check with your insurance company if your policy covers you driving following a surgical procedure. You might not be insured to drive for some weeks.

 

You can consult with your surgical team about your after-surgery pain medication and hip replacement tips. It is important not to drive at all on strong painkillers. 

You start driving again after six weeks. In any case, one should be aware that reflexes can get impacted just after surgery. So take a comfortable position in your driving seat where you can perform an emergency stop.

These are some of the important hip replacement recovery tips that you should follow for quicker recovery. To know more about hip replacement tips, consult the doctors at Germanten Hospital. Book your appointment now.  

 

06 Feb 2023
best exercises for golfer elbow

Best Exercises and Home Remedies for Treating and Preventing Golfer’s Elbow

Exercise for golfers elbow

These golfer elbow exercises should be followed twice daily to build strength, boost flexibility, and eliminate pain. It should be done gently and gradually over time. Perform the exercise for golfers elbow before and after the activity that leads to strain or stress. Move gently; do not force any. 

Moreover, it is common to experience slight pain, discomfort, and sensation. However, if it becomes severe, discontinue the golfer elbow exercises. Give your body some rest and consult your doctor if you don’t see any improvement. 

  • Isometric wrist strengthening (extension)

    Sit and relax your whole body. Keep your affected forearm on the table or arm of the chair with your palm facing downwards. Place the opposite hand on the affected one and press it to create resistance. Do it for 10 seconds by slowly increasing the resistance and releasing it. Remember to keep your body still during these golfer elbow exercises. You can repeat it 15 times. 

 

  • Isometric wrist strengthening (flexion)

    Sit and relax your whole body. Keep your affected forearm on the table or arm of the chair with your palm facing up. Place the opposite hand on the affected one and press it to create resistance. Do it for 10 seconds by slowly increasing the resistance and releasing it. Remember to keep your body still during this golfer elbow exercise. You can repeat it 15 times.

 

  • Resisted wrist extension

    Sit down and hold a weight with your resisted arm. Place your forearm on the table or arm of the chair with your palm facing down and your hand hanging. Start slowly lowering your hand and returning it to the initial position. Do 15 reps of this exercise of 1-3 sets.

 

  • Resisted wrist flexion

    Sit down and hold a weight with your resisted arm. Place your forearm on the table or arm of the chair with your palm facing down and your hand hanging. Start slowly lowering your hand and returning it to the initial position. Do 15 reps of this exercise of 1-3 sets.

 

  • Golfer’s elbow stretch

    Extend your arm in front of you and keep your fingers and palms facing up. Then gently use your opposite hand to pull your fingers and wrist down towards your body. Hold the position for 30 seconds. Repeat it 2 to 5 times. While performing this exercise, you will feel a stretch in the underside of your forearm.

 

Preventing golfer’s elbow

There are various things to prevent and act as golfers elbow treatment, including:

  • Strengthen the forearm muscles with light weightlifting. You can also squeeze the ball for five minutes at a time. 
  • Change your technique and slowly lower your golf swing to allow your arm to absorb less shock. 
  • Keep the form proper to overload your muscles. 
  • Use lighter graphite clubs instead of heavier golfing irons.
  • Keep yourself hydrated during, before and after the golf game. 

 

In case you are already experiencing pain, wearing a counterforce brace and splint can greatly help. They distribute the tension throughout the tendons and muscles rather than impacting only the injured site. 

 

Home remedies for golfers elbow

Some of the simple home remedies for golfers elbow that can ease the symptoms and prevent the condition from getting worse are: 

 

  • Take rest

    Resting for a few days is one of the treatment of golfers elbow. Do not indulge in activities that cause pain. If it is for your job, try to modify them and adjust your movements as much as possible. To avoid swelling, raise your elbow above your heart. 

 

  • Heat and ice treatment of golfers elbow

    Use heat and ice packs on the affected area. It is best to wrap it in a towel to avoid touching your skin directly. Doing it for 10 to 15 minutes a day helps to relieve the pain.

 

  • Pain relief

    Taking pain relief drugs can help ease the pain. It should be taken before the condition becomes too intense or severe. Take the limited dosages and do not use it for more than ten days as golfers elbow treatments. The natural pain relievers are turmeric, willow bark and cloves. 

 

These are some of the best home remedies for golfers elbow. Visit Germanten Hospital to learn about the best exercise for golfers elbow

 

31 Dec 2022
Does stifness in fingers mean arthiritis

Does Stiffness In Fingers Mean Arthritis?

Stiffness In The Fingers In The Morning

Having stiff and swollen fingers in the morning is quite familiar to people of all ages. It can even be a cause of loss of mobility in your fingers in your daily routine. Although most people think that it is primarily due to arthritis, there can be other reasons. Therefore, a doctor will be able to provide you with treatment only after a thorough diagnosis. Here are a few symptoms of stiff and sore fingers in the morning: swelling, warmth in the area, mild to excruciating pain, redness, bruising, etc. 

Causes

Here are a few causes of stiff finger joints in the morning:

  • Arthritis: One of the most common orthopedic problems is arthritis, and it is considered a prevalent cause of stiff fingers. If the stiffness is due to this condition, it might get worse gradually. There are five forms of arthritis. The doctor will provide you with a suitable treatment based on a thorough diagnosis for the type. Then, there’s rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks its healthy cells. As this condition gets worse with age, an early diagnosis is key to treatment. When it comes to arthritis, along with stiff hands in the morning, you might feel swelling, excruciating pain and lack of mobility in your knees and other load-bearing joints. 

 

  • Dupuytren’s Contracture: It is a medical condition in which the collagen tissues under the skin of your palm gradually get thick and tight. It is also known as palmar fibromatosis. A cord-like structure might form due to the knots in the collagen tissues, which might pull your finger, causing a bend, resulting in stiffness. Although the most frequently affected fingers are your ring finger and pinkie, they might slowly spread around if not treated in time. Symptoms other than stiff fingers include the formation of lumps of tissues in your palms and having dimples or marks on the skin of your palms. 

 

  • Stenosing Tenosynovitis: It is a medical condition that causes inflammation in the protective sheath over the tendons in your fingers. Another name for this condition is trigger finger. Your finger might lock in a particular position instead of free motion. It tends to cause excruciating pain when you try to bend or move your fingers. 

 

Your fingers may feel stiff in the morning due to several reasons. But the true cause will be known only after a thorough diagnosis by a doctor. 

 

DIAGNOSIS

 

The first step in diagnosing a particular condition is usually a session of physical exam or consultation. In this session, the doctor might ask you a few questions about your symptoms, their extent, activity level, any accident you might have been involved in, etc. They will also check your fingers and see the range of motion to examine the symptoms firsthand. 

After that, they might recommend some diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact cause of your afflictions. Firstly, there will be a regular X-ray to check for any damages or irregularities in your bone structure. Then, in rare cases, the diagnosis might go further with tests like CT scans and MRIs.

Then, the doctor will avail you of a treatment based on the diagnosis. 

So you might want to have an early consultation to ensure that the treatment is provided as soon as possible. 

 

TREATMENT

 

The treatment of your stiff fingers will depend upon the cause to a great extent. But here are a few common treatments for this affliction:

  • Home remedies: You could try heat packs and ice packs to soothe the pain in your fingers. Then there are anti-inflammatory medications you can buy OTC to have some relief from the pain. 
  • Cast: The doctor might wrap a cast in case of a fracture. 
  • Surgery: Surgery might be the answer in severe cases. 

Having stiff fingers is quite common but can be pretty painful, and as mentioned earlier, it can be due to several reasons. So have a proper diagnosis to ensure a suitable treatment. If you have any more queries like “Why are my fingers stiff in the morning?” you might want to have a consultation with the doctors at Germanten Hospitals. So book your appointment today!

 

WHY CHOOSE US?

 

Germanten Hospital has been one of India’s leading facilities for various medical treatments. Under insightful leadership, we have acquired excellence when it comes to treatments in neurology, plastic or cosmetic surgery, orthopaedics and reconstructive surgery. 

 

Dr. Mir Jawad Zar Khan has led our hospital to the forefront of the medical industry. He has experience of 22 years in orthopaedics. His alma mater is Osmania University, where Dr. Jawad achieved a gold medal for his excellence in education. He then completed advanced training in the USA and Germany. 

 

Dr.Mir Jawad Zar Khan was awarded the Times of India Award of “Iconic Joint Replacement Surgeon Of Telangana” by the State Hon’ble Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan and Germanten hospital has been ranked by “All India Lifestyle Hospital & Clinic Ranking Survey 2022” among the top orthopedic hospitals India. 

 

We have gained access to state-of-the-art medical technology and the latest advanced equipment, which has proven to be quite beneficial for our patients. 

 

11 Dec 2022
How to sleep with herinated disc and sciatica

How to sleep with herniated disc and sciatica

Sciatica is caused due to impingement on your sciatica nerve. It’s typically due to an injured disc in the lower back of your body. The most common sign of sciatica is intense pain in the nerve. The pain usually ranges from moderate to severe and usually is felt on one side.

Best sleeping position for sciatica

  • Keep your eyes on yourself.

Sleeping on your back can ease discomfort by relieving pressure off your nerves that are irritated.

How to set up:

  1. Lay on your bed on your side with the injured part placed on the top for the sleeping position for sciatica.
  2. If there’s a gap between the waist and the mattress, place it on a pillow to help reduce the side bend.
  • Put a pillow between your knees.

A pillow between your knees can help keep your spine and pelvis in a neutral posture. It also stops your legs of yours from pivoting throughout the night. Hence it is an accurate sleeping position for sciatica

How to set up a sleeping position for sciatica:

  1. Begin by placing your shoulder on the mattress, then place your entire body on your mattress.
  2. Relax your knees and place them on a thin pillow between them.
  3. You could also place a small pillow under your waist if there’s space.
  • Fetal position

The fetal position can open up the space between your vertebrae. It can help relieve back pain that is caused by herniated discs. But, some experience pain that is worsened by it.

If you feel uncomfortable in the fetal posture, consider one of the alternatives on this list.

How to set up sleep for herniated disc:

  1. Relax on your side and raise your knees towards your chest until your body forms a “C.”
  2. You could also put pillows between your knees or beneath your waist.
  • You can lie on your back by having a pillow between your knees

Laying back on your back can help to distribute your weight evenly over your back and hence is a good position to sleep with lower back pain and sciatica. In addition, placing a pillow of a suitable thickness between your knees can assist in maintaining the curvature of your spine by stretching your hips.

How to set it up:

  1. Relax on your back with an extra pillow on your head for assistance.
  2. Place one or two pillows beneath your knees. Then, place your legs comfortably against your mattress.
  • You can sleep on the floor.

How to set up a sleeping position for slipped disc:

  1. Set up a thin mat, like a yoga mat or a camping mat, on the ground where you plan to lay.
  2. Lay down in any of the above positions or wherever you feel comfortable.

The softness of the surface could cause the spine to move out of alignment. However, sleeping on the floor can help you maintain your spine in a straight line

How to sit and sleep with a herniated disc

A herniated disc may occur at any point along the spine from the neck down to the lower back. It is typically the result of age or something as easy as a strong sneeze, lifting heavy objects, or sleeping in a slouchy place.

Better options are sleeping on your back or side to sleep with lower back pain and sciatica. Side sleepers can put a cushion between the knees to relieve any strain on the hips or lift their legs with a pillow. You could also put an unrolled towel between the waist of your body and the mattress while lying on your back. Always lie on your side so that it doesn’t cause any discomfort.

The ideal sleep with a herniated disc would be lying on your back. The position of lying on your back will keep the spine and vertebrae in an even posture and reduces the risk of squeezing the nerve. To increase comfort, place the pillow or towel between your knees and lower back to sleep with lower back pain and sciatica. A wedge-shaped pillow that elevates your ankles and legs can reduce the burden on your herniated disc and is an ideal position to sleep with a herniated disc

06 Dec 2022
What helps with hip replacement recovery

What Helps with Hip Replacement Recovery?

One of the most commonly performed elective surgeries is total joint replacement, including hip replacement. 

Total hip replacement surgery or arthroplasty is the surgical procedure in which the damaged ball-and-socket hip joint is replaced by an artificial joint made of metal or synthetic material. 

The surgery is performed to provide relief from arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and from various other hip-related issues. It helps to restore the range of motion in the joint. The surgery is only performed after conservative measures have failed to treat the underlying pain or mobility. Some of the conservative hip treatments are: 

  • Pain medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Therapeutic exercise 
  • Stretching
  • Weight Management

Total Hip replacement surgery recovery time varies from one person to another. However, knowing what to expect from the recovery will help you plan effective outcomes. 

How to prepare for recovery?

During hip replacement surgery recovery time, one needs to be patient. There are various instructions that one needs to follow after the surgery. However, preparing before the surgery will help you to make the hip replacement surgery recovery time smooth. 

Before the Surgery

Steps to take before the surgery that helps to make total hip replacement surgery recovery time easier are: 

  • Undergo a physical therapy program to strengthen the muscles around the hip. 
  • Arrange a help who can assist you after the surgery. 
  • Make changes in your home arrangements to make sure that you carry on with your daily activities after the surgery safely and efficiently. Start with putting a seat in the shower or bathtub. Install a hand-held shower. Apart from that, remove things that you can trip on and fall. 
  • Consult your surgeon about what to expect and what issues to look for after the surgery. 
  • If you are overweight or obese, then lose weight before undergoing surgery. 

After Surgery 

Following your healthcare provider’s instructions after the surgery is one of the most vital things. The more you follow their instructions, the easier the recovery will be. 

  • Wound Care
    Always keep the wound area dry and clean for at least 3 weeks after the surgery. After that, you can either change the dressing or ask your caregiver.
  • Exercises
    Physical therapy starts right after the surgery. Being consistent with the exercises after hip replacement is key to leading a safe, effective, and quick recovery phase. Your physical therapist will put together the most effective exercise routine for you. You will need to perform the exercises after hip replacement 3 to 4 times a day for various months.  

The simple exercises you do can be particularly beneficial following surgery to prevent blood clots and improve your recovery.

Ankle pumps: When sitting on the back, slowly move your foot upwards and downwards repeatedly. Repeat this exercise for one foot, and repeat it with the second. Repeat the exercise as many times as possible every 5-10 minutes.

Ankle rotations: When lying back on your back, rotate the ankle towards your body and then back towards your other foot. Perform this exercise on one foot and, afterwards, the other. Repeat five times, three or 4 times per day.

Knees bend: When lying back, bend your knee while keeping your heel on the mattress. Move your foot towards your buttocks while keeping your knee straight. Keep your knee bent for 5-10 seconds before resetting it. Repeat this exercise for one knee, and then repeat it for the other. Do this 10 times. Repeat 3-4 times a day for both legs.

Make sure you work closely with your physical trainer to keep up with the number of exercises after hip replacement you’re performing.

Take a walk frequently

One of the most effective methods to increase your fitness is to walk. In the beginning, you’ll use the walker and, later, aid for stability. As per the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, it is possible to begin walking for 5-10 minutes at a stretch three or four times per day. When your strength grows, you can increase the duration from 20-30 minutes per session to 2-3 times per day.

 

After recovering from your injury, you can begin a routine maintenance regimen that will require walking for 20-30 minutes at a time, three or four times per week.

Visit Germanten Hospital to know more. 

 

29 Nov 2022
How long does it take spinal surgery

How long does it take to walk after spinal surgery?

The recovery time required after a lumbral depression surgery depends on your fitness level. Hence, it is recommended that the patients have a physiotherapy session before undergoing surgery.

On the day of surgery, after the procedure is done, it is recommended for the patient to walk and move around. You would be discharged around 1 to 4 days after the surgery.

Spinal cord surgery recovery time is anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks. After that, you will have a relaxed level of mobility. The spinal surgery recovery time mainly depends on the severity of the injury and symptoms before the surgery.

After you wake up from the lumbar decompression surgery, you will feel soreness in your back and will have one or more tubes attached to the body. It would include the following:

  • Intravenous drip would ensure hydration levels in the body.
  • Drain to remove any excess fluid from the body.
  • A thin, flexible tube ( catheter) is inserted in the urethra if you face micturition issues.
  • Pump to inject painkillers directly into the veins.

These tubes remain attached to the body for a short time after surgery.

Immediately after the surgery, you would experience some extent of pain in the area. Pain relief medicines would be given during the spine surgery recovery time. You would notice an immediate improvement in the original leg pain, but if you don’t see so, inform the doctor.

Usually, very few people face problems in their postoperative period. It is mostly temporary, but in rare cases, if nerve damage occurs, it can interfere with bladder and leg movements. During the spinal surgery recovery time, make sure to inform each detail to the doctor.

The pain would decrease in around 6 weeks of the spine surgery recovery time to disappear completely.

Stitches

 

Doctors might do stitches or staples to close the cuts and incisions on the surgical site. Stitches done in deep layers of the skin would dissolve themselves and don’t need to be removed. Instead, the non-dissolvable stitches would be removed 5 to 10 days after the surgery.

The stitches are covered by simple adhesive dressing like plaster. Make sure to keep it dry. After the stitches are removed, you can usually take a bath.

Rehabilitation

 

After the surgery, the doctor would want you to move around and walk for a smooth and shorter spinal surgery recovery time. Inactivity can cause blood clot development in the leg (DVT). 

After the surgery, a physiotherapist would help you regain strength and movement after the surgery. In addition, they would train you with some exercises and activities, which would help in faster spinal surgery recovery time.

At home

 

It takes 1 to 4 days for the patient to return to their home. The time duration of hospital stay depends on the extent of the surgery, your health conditions and the rate of spinal cord surgery recovery time.

Remember to keep your activity level as instructed when you are at home and then gradually increase it. You would require help in the first week after the surgery. Having an active routine would facilitate the spine surgery recovery time. Follow all the instructions of the doctor and physiotherapist. Avoid sitting or standing in the same posture or position for more than 15 to 20 minutes, as it can make your muscles stiff and sore. 

Walking is an easy way of maintaining an active routine. Avoid getting into heavy weight lifting, sudden twists and jerks to the muscle when performing daily activities. Instead, increase your limits and the extent of work at a slow pace.

After the surgery, you would have to go for follow-up appointments during your spinal cord surgery recovery time. It is done to check the progress of the operated area and look for any symptoms or infections in the wound area.

Work

 

You can resume your work after your doctor has allowed you. It depends on the rate of your recovery as well as the kind of job you do. For low-activity level jobs, you can resume your usual routine 4 to 8 weeks after the surgery and 3 to 6 months for high-level physical activity jobs.

 

If you follow these tips, you can speed up the recovery time. Contact your doctor for any queries. 

 

19 Nov 2022
How to release frozen shoulder

How to release a frozen shoulder

Whether fastening a bra or taking a book off a shelf, even the simplest activities seem impossible when you have a frozen shoulder. Let’s know what exactly frozen shoulder is.

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a disorder that causes stiffness and pain and hinders the range of motion in the shoulder. This disability can be hazardous and tends to worsen if not treated early. Women aged 40 to 60 are more prone to have frozen shoulders than men.

The cause of frozen shoulder is not understood completely, but an inflammatory process is probably involved. Due to the immobility of the shoulder for a long duration by injury or illness, freezing occurs in the shoulders. Fortunately, the affected shoulders can be unfrozen though it costs time and a lot of self-help.

The shoulder is a part that has a maximum range of motion. It pivots mainly on a ball-and-socket joint called a glenohumeral joint. It joins the top of the humerus to a scooped-out part of the scapula called the glenoid cavity. 

Anatomy of a frozen shoulder

Anotomy of frozen shoulder

Usually, the head of the humerus moves smoothly in the glenoid cavity, a depression in the scapula. The frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule that protects the glenohumeral joint contracts and stiffens. Adhesions may also form between the head of the humerus and the joint capsule. 

 

How does a frozen shoulder happen?

 

After an injury or inflammation of the soft tissues, primarily because of bursitis or tendonitis of the rotator cuff, the process of a frozen shoulder begins. The inflammation causes pain, which worsens with the disability of shoulder motion.

When the shoulder gets immobilised, the connective tissue surrounding the glenohumeral joint thickens and contracts, thus losing its capacity to stretch. If it is tried to avoid the pain due to shoulder movement, it further leads to capsule contraction. There is a space constraint in the humerus to move in, and the joint may lose synovial fluid, which is the reason behind its lubrication.

It may take two to nine months for a frozen shoulder to develop. Though the pain can gradually increase, stiffness continues, and the range of motion is limited unless pain relief for a frozen shoulder is utilised. 

In the next paragraph, let us know how to cure frozen shoulders quickly and regard pain relief for frozen shoulders.

Frozen shoulder treatment

 

If you are looking for how to cure a frozen shoulder quickly or remedy a frozen shoulder, read below.

If you feel you have a frozen shoulder or you are developing one, visit your clinician for a physical exam for the frozen shoulder treatment. The clinician will ask you to perform a set of activities involving shoulder movement, such as touching the opposite shoulder by reaching across the chest. Next, they may take an x-ray scan to ensure no problem, such as arthritic changes. Finally, an MRI is ordered to check for a rotator cuff tear.

Relieving pain and restoring the normal range of motion are the main focus areas of frozen shoulder treatment. In addition, the clinician may advise an anti-inflammatory medication. Applying an ice pack or frozen bag to the shoulder for 10 to 15 minutes many times a day is pain relief for a frozen shoulder. You may also be given the corticosteroid injection into the soft tissues or shoulder. Ultimately, it is physical therapy, concentrating on stretching the joint capsule and strengthening it for an effective frozen shoulder treatment. A physical therapist will guide you regarding exercises. Once you learn them, you can practice them on your own.

Once you begin to work out to stretch the shoulder capsule, you should abstain from any activities that need overhead reaching, lifting, or anything similar. If you regularly exercise as per the physical therapist’s guidance, you will soon be able to resume your activity. Getting recovered from frozen shoulders takes time – maybe two to three years. If you see no progress, get back to your clinician or consult a shoulder expert to cure a frozen shoulder quickly. Rarely it requires surgery. It is how a frozen shoulder treatment is done.

Contact Germanten Hospitals for solutions to your frozen shoulder-related problems.

 

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