NEED A HIP REPLACEMENT?
TRY PT FIRST!
Doctors perform roughly 450,000 hip replacements annually in the U.S., but it still makes sense to avoid one if you can. Hip replacement surgery is painful and, like any surgery, comes with risks. While a hip replacement is sometimes the best way for someone to enjoy a fuller, less-painful life, most doctors recommend trying physical therapy before undergoing an invasive procedure. Most hip replacements result from osteoarthritis. As the cartilage in a person’s joints breaks down from the condition, the bones begin rubbing against each other, causing pain. Some people also need hip replacements due to a hip fracture or rheumatoid arthritis, and physical therapy generally won’t help in these cases. Fortunately, a physical therapist can sometimes treat osteoarthritis sufficiently to avoid surgery. Of course, prevention is the best medicine. People who maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly are less likely to develop osteoarthritis than those who don’t. Try to perform various activities to work as many muscle groups as possible. If you develop osteoarthritis, it’s also crucial to remain active with safe movement. That’s where physical therapy can help.
Physical therapy for osteoarthritis pain works by building up muscles to relieve pressure on your joints. When you can better support your body and absorb the shock of movements, your joints get relief. The process can take time, and physical therapy will most likely not eliminate pain for osteoarthritis sufferers, but many patients do see a significantly improved quality of life. Unfortunately, physical therapy will not work for everyone. Some patients also see improvement for several years but eventually stop experiencing relief. Physical therapy cannot prevent every hip replacement surgery, but it does play a pivotal role in a patient’s recovery. Anyone who undergoes hip replacement should seek postoperative physical therapy to enable the healing process. It’s the best way to strengthen your muscles, regain your range of motion, learn to use your new joint(s), and avoid further injury. If you’re experiencing hip pain or considering hip replacement surgery, ask your doctor whether physical therapy might work for you. And if surgery is a must, don’t forget the crucial role of physical therapy in your post-surgery recovery. We at Horizon Physical Therapy will work with your doctor to develop the best care plan possible and help you discover a new lease on life.
NO-BAKE PEANUT BUTTER SNOWBALLS
Have a Laugh
Inspired by TheFoodieAffair.com
This year-round treat is the perfect dessert for any holiday party. Since you don’t need to worry about a hot oven, it’s a great recipe to make with the whole family — including the little ones!
Ingredients
• • • •
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
3 tbsp softened butter
1 lb white chocolate candy coating
Directions
1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment or wax paper. 2. In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter. Mix until evenly combined. 3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the lined cookie sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until firm.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate candy coating in increments of 30 seconds, stirring occasionally until smooth. 5. In the same bowl, use skewers to dip peanut butter balls into the chocolate before placing them on a lined cookie sheet so they can harden.
6. Chill until ready and then serve!
3
810-620-8042
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator