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Understanding Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty: What You Need to Know

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a hip fracture or are considering treatment options, it’s important to understand the various surgical procedures available. One such option is bipolar hemiarthroplasty, a specialized type of hip surgery designed to address specific issues with the hip joint.

Hip Fractures

What is a Hip Fracture?

Dr. Beswada, hip doctor, discusses bipolar hemiarthroplasty with patient while demonstrating on a hip model

A hip fracture typically occurs in the femoral neck, the narrow section of the thigh bone that is just below the ball of the hip joint. This area is crucial as it connects the ball of your hip joint to the main shaft of the femur. When a fracture happens here, it can disrupt the blood supply flowing to the hip joint, leading to significant pain and potential long-term damage. Conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy might not always be sufficient, making surgery a necessary option.

Causes of Hip Fractures:

  • Falls: Common in older adults, especially on hard surfaces.
  • Osteoporosis: Weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.
  • Trauma: Accidents or injuries, such as car crashes.
  • Repetitive Stress: Certain high-impact sports or activities.

Symptoms of Hip Fractures:

  • Severe Hip Pain: Especially in the groin or outer thigh.
  • Inability to Move: Difficulty moving the leg or bearing weight.
  • Swelling and Bruising: Around the hip or thigh.
  • Shortened Leg: The affected leg may appear shorter and turned outward.

Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours


What Is Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty?

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat hip fractures, particularly when the head of the femur is damaged. The term "hemiarthroplasty" refers to replacing half of the hip joint with a prosthetic. In the case of bipolar hemiarthroplasty, the procedure involves replacing the damaged femoral head with a prosthetic component with a two-part design: an inner head and an outer cup. This design allows the head to swivel within the outer cup, which helps reduce wear and tear on the new joint.

This type of surgery benefits patients with arthritis in the remaining hip joint or who may have had previous fractures. The bipolar design provides greater stability and lowers the risk of complications, such as the prosthetic protruding into the acetabulum (the socket part of the hip joint).

What to Expect During Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty

During bipolar hemiarthroplasty, the damaged femoral head and neck are removed. A prosthetic ball is then implanted in its place, secured with either cement or acrylic bone cement. The goal of the surgery is to restore hip function and reduce pain. After the procedure, physical therapy is crucial to help you regain movement and strength in the joint.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

How long does it take to recover from a Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty?

Recovering from hip replacement surgery can be a long and challenging process, and there's no easy way through it. After any major surgery, the idea for most patients is complete relaxation and ongoing therapy until they are completely healed.

For added comfort, keep a pillow between your knees any time you are lying down. If you are lying on your back, the pillow should rest under the affected leg and on top of the other leg. This will help you turn onto your side without twisting at the hips.

Recovery from bipolar hemiarthroplasty involves several stages:

Immediate Post-Surgery

You will start physical therapy as soon as you are able, often the day after surgery. This therapy focuses on helping you move without dislocating your new hip joint and includes exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip.

Precautions

To avoid complications and ensure proper healing, you will need to follow these guidelines:

Ongoing Care

You will want to make sure you continue with physical therapy and adhere to any additional precautions advised by your surgeon. Recovery can be gradual, but many patients achieve effective and lasting results from this surgery.

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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty can be an effective solution for managing severe hip fractures, offering pain relief and improved joint function. If you’re considering this procedure or need more information, reach out to schedule with one of our specialists to discuss whether it’s the right option for your situation. Proper education about the surgery and recovery process can help you prepare for a smoother transition back to your daily activities.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

After a long day of typing away at your desk, you finally sit down to relax. As you unwind, you start noticing a twitching in your thumb that you can't control. The tiny, repetitive jerks are persistent and a bit unsettling, making you wonder if something from your busy day is catching up with you and causing this issue.

What Is Thumb Twitching?

Thumb twitching, also known as thumb fasciculation, is an involuntary movement of the thumb that can be subtle or pronounced. This twitching is usually harmless but can be bothersome and cause concern. The thumb may twitch or jerk sporadically, often without any accompanying pain or discomfort.

Symptoms Associated with Thumb Twitching

The primary symptom of thumb twitching is the involuntary movement of the thumb. Other associated symptoms might include:

Dr. Ark, orthopaedic hand doctor, examining a patient's hand with thumb twitching symptoms
  • Muscle Twitching: Involuntary muscle contractions in the thumb.
  • Tremors: Slight shaking or trembling of the thumb.
  • Discomfort: If you have mild discomfort or a feeling of tightness in your the thumb.

Why is My Thumb Twitching?

Your thumb twitching can arise from multiple factors, at various times, and under different conditions.

Here's when you might experience thumb twitching:

Recognizing when and under what conditions thumb twitching occurs can help identify potential triggers and contribute to effective management and treatment strategies.

Dr. Grenis, orthpaedic hand doctor, examines a patient's hand for symptoms of thumb twitching.

How to Treat Thumb Twitching

In many cases, thumb twitching resolves on its own without the need for medical intervention. However, there are several strategies to alleviate and manage the condition:

Ensure you get adequate vitamins and minerals. A balanced diet helps prevent deficiencies that cause muscle twitches.

Reduce caffeine intake and other stimulants to see if it alleviates the twitching.

If you use your thumb extensively, you should take regular breaks to rest and stretch the muscles.

It is important to drink plenty of water; this will help to keep your muscles hydrated and functioning properly.

If the twitching is persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be beneficial for you to consult with an orthopedic specialist so they can help you address your thumb twitching issues.

Meet our Hand & Wrist Experts

Learn more about our hand and wrist experts on our Hand and Wrist Speciality Page or watch the videos below!

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When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If thumb twitching is persistent, worsening, or associated with other symptoms like pain, weakness, or difficulty moving the thumb, it's advisable to seek medical attention. An orthopedic specialist at POA can help diagnose underlying conditions that may be contributing to the twitching and provide appropriate treatment.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Related Hand and Finger Issues

Thumb twitching can sometimes be related to other hand or finger issues, including:

Dr. Griffis, orthpaedic hand specialist, examines a patient's thumb for thumb twitching symptoms.
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: If you have compression of the median nerve in your wrist, it can lead to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and muscle twitching in the hand.
  • Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the thumb can cause discomfort and twitching.
  • Trigger Finger: This is a condition in which the fingers or thumb get stuck in a bent position and may twitch or snap when moving.


Other Helpful Tips for Your Thumb Twitching

Monitoring and Documentation

Keep a Journal

Documenting when the twitching occurs, its duration and any associated activities or triggers can help identify patterns and potential causes. Sharing this information at an appointment with an orthopaedic hand specialist can be helpful in diagnosing and treating the condition.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Ergonomic Adjustments:

If your thumb twitching is related to repetitive tasks, adjusting your workspace to be more ergonomic might help. For example, using an ergonomic keyboard or adjusting your hand position can reduce strain on your thumb.

Physical Therapy:

In some cases, a physical therapist can provide you with exercises and techniques that will strengthen your muscles and improve flexibility, which can help alleviate your thumb twitching.

Alternative Therapies

Acupuncture:

Some people find relief from muscle twitching through alternative therapies like acupuncture, which may help balance energy and reduce stress.

Massage Therapy:

Gently massaging the affected area can help relax the muscles and reduce twitching.

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Are you suffering from thumb twitching?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have thumb twitching, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

POA's Hand Specialists are Here for You

Thumb twitching is usually benign and temporary. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and triggers can help you effectively manage and alleviate the problem. If you have concerns or the twitching is persistent, seeking advice from an orthopedic specialist at POA can provide clarity and ensure appropriate care. Remember, caring for your hands and fingers is essential for overall well-being and quality of life.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

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