Complications
Like any other operation, the insertion of an artificial hip joint involves risks. These can be minimized by well-trained personnel, compatible material selection and a good implementation of the previously planned operation. Furthermore, a dislocation (luxation) of the hip can occur after the operation.
This is very painful and usually has to be put back in place under anesthesia. A bruise can also occur at the hip, which can lead to swelling and slight pain at the hip and thigh. Another important complication to be mentioned is the possible risk of infection when inserting an artificial joint.
In the case of an uncontrollable infection (antibiotics ineffective), it may mean that the joint has to be completely removed again. Nerve damage can also result from the operation. A too large difference in leg length is another complication of an artificial hip. Too great a difference can cause discomfort to the spine and pain in the back. However, a difference of less than 1 cm should not cause disturbances.
Pain
There are several reasons why an artificial hip joint causes pain. For example, the prosthesis can become loose and cause pain. Wear of the sliding surfaces can also cause pain.
If the artificial hip joint becomes inflamed, this is usually accompanied by pain. Such inflammation is often caused by bacteria (staphylococci or streptococci). If this inflammation cannot be controlled by antibiotics, the artificial hip joint must be removed.
Sports with artificial hip joint
Before an artificial hip joint is implanted in a patient, the level of suffering is usually very high and there is a pronounced restriction of movement. After a hip prosthesis operation, it is possible to do sports again. However, these sports activities should not be started too early.
No sports should be taken up for three to six months after the operation, as the structures that secure the joint, such as the joint capsule, must first grow back. If the joint is loaded too early, there is a greater risk that the artificial femoral head will spring out of the artificial socket. After a period of rest, the patient should return to sports activities.
This has several advantages: Firstly, the muscles that provide a certain stability to the joint are trained, thus preventing a possible dislocation of the artificial hip joint. On the other hand, sport promotes bone formation, which allows the artificial hip joint to be anchored more firmly in the bone. Sport also helps to reduce the risk of falling, since sporting activity trains the mobility of the joint and coordination skills. Recommended sports are, for example, cycling, swimming – where breaststroke should be avoided because of leg movement – and Nordic walking. In these sports, the artificial hip is protected from excessive stress and yet trained.