The hip is the most significant ball-and-socket joint in the human body, and it helps you sit, stand, and walk. However, hip pain limits mobility and happens when you get inflamed or injured. Hip pain also lowers your quality of life, as you can no longer participate in basic things.
However, you should consider visiting an orthopedic doctor if the pain worsens or reduces your activity levels. Orthopedics specializes in detecting, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal diseases and injuries.
These experts achieve that both surgically and non-surgically, and you must consider several things to make a more informed decision. Below, we discuss where to find the best hip specialists near me.
Top Considerations
It is advisable to look for an orthopedic doctor who;
- Accepts your insurance
- Specializes in hip replacement and is certified by the board
- Is experienced in treating similar conditions
- Who answers your questions thoroughly and makes you comfortable
- Practices in a facility with a high hip-replacement success rate.
Below, we discuss how to find the best orthopedic surgeon.
Ask for Referrals
Patients should begin by making a list of their preferred surgeons after asking for referrals from friends and family. Many online sites will give leads on where to find the best surgeons.
These sites show client satisfaction rates, further giving you an insight into what to expect from the surgeon. Most doctors have an online presence that features reviews from past clients.
Check their Experience and Credentials
Patients should check the doctor’s experience and credentials to make a more informed decision before hiring one. It is advisable to look for a doctor certified by the necessary board and one who has handled many similar cases before for the best results.
Remember, the more experienced your preferred candidate is, the better results you will get. Patients should also ensure their patients are in good standing with federal and state agencies, as it means they have no history of disciplinary issues or malpractice.
Check the Hospital’s Performance
Remember, orthopedic procedures need a team of highly-experienced and skilled professionals, making it essential to check the general condition of the orthopedic care where the surgeon is stationed.
Check Client Reviews
Most orthopedic surgeons have an online presence, and you should check reviews from past clients before hiring. These reviews will give you detailed information regarding their experience with a particular doctor, thus helping you make a better decision.
Reviews entail scheduling, staff friendliness, office environment, and wait times. This feedback is essential, as it informs you of how the doctor divides his time among patients, how they respond to questions, and how much they can be trusted.
Communication
Communication is an essential consideration before hiring an orthopedic surgeon. Patients should choose individuals who support them, make them comfortable, and respond to their issues in a short time.
Insurance
Choosing the right orthopedic surgeon is essential, and you should pick an individual that is compatible with your preferred insurance policy. Besides experience, outcomes, and credentials, patients should only hire doctors within their insurance coverage to get the most out of their plans.
Hip Treatment at Home
Patients might be able to treat hip pain at home, but only in the mild stage. The main treatment remedies include the following;
Heat application- barriers like towels should be put between the skin and the pad to avoid burns.
Hydrotherapy includes either soaking in a whirlpool or taking hot showers, and it works fast to alleviate pain.
Hip resting– here, patients should avoid activities that worsen hip pain. For instance, you should not sleep on your side unless you are using a firm pillow to align your hips.
Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain is common in people in different age brackets but mainly in older people. The leading causes of this pain include;
- Hip fracture
- Dislocated hip
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Structural damage in the soft tissues.
Final Thoughts
Hip pain causes lots of discomforts and can prevent you from undertaking your daily activities. This pain can be controlled by visiting an orthopedic surgeon or trying certain home remedies. The above article has discussed everything you need to know before a hip replacement, and you can reach out for more information.
