In some cases the best way to deal with your hip pain is a total hip replacement. If this decision seems like a drastic step to you, you'll be glad to know how much the field of joint replacement has advanced in recent times.

Replacement joints have improved dramatically in the last few years. One of these new techniques, the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing System, is particularly appropriate for younger or more active patients. Benefits of this technique last longer than traditional hip replacements and mean young people face additional surgeries less frequently.

Surgical techniques have also improved due to the pioneering efforts of orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Ferro. Not only does Dr. Ferro perform hundreds of joint replacement procedures each year, he also is one of the first surgeons to use computer-assisted technology, giving his patients the most precise fit possible. In much the same way as a satellite is used to guide motorists with the GPS system, Dr Ferro uses Image Guided Surgery to achieve unparalleled accuracy when operating on a joint. As a result, Dr. Ferro's patients tend to recover more quickly and experience less pain than patients having traditional replacement surgery.

About the Surgery

If you and Dr. Ferro decide to have the surgery done, it is important that you prepare ahead of time. You should practice walking with aids such as a cane, crutches, or a walker. Dr. Ferro will explain which aid is needed and when. He will also describe the specific exercises you will need to do to help recuperate.

The surgery will be performed in a hospital where you should expect to stay at least 3 days and as long as 10 days depending on your general health and any complications that may occur. A spinal or epidural anesthesia is usually administered but some patients may require a general anesthetic.

You will need to arrange for someone to take you home from the hospital and to stay with you to help with meal preparation and other household tasks for one to two weeks after being discharged from the hospital.

You will start physical therapy the day after surgery. Twice a day the therapist will help you with specific exercises to aid the healing and recuperation of your new hip. You will need to continue physical therapy two to three times a week for four to six weeks after you leave the hospital.

To learn more, go to our Frequently Asked Questions or call us for an appointment at 805-481-3685 in Arroyo Grande.

I started getting pain in my leg after losing 30 lbs. The pain finally got so bad that I could hardly walk. I heard about Dr. Ferro at a seminar at the hospital and decided it was time to get it checked. The very first time I went to Dr. Ferro's office his entire staff made me feel so comfortable. They were all knowledgeable, encouraging and friendly. Dr. Ferro made me feel so confident that he could help me and he did. I would highly recommend Dr. Ferro to anyone that has pain.  
> read more patient testimonials   - Gayle Leyva  

Call us at 805-481-3685 in Arroyo Grande for an appointment today.