Hip Care

Dr. Henry Backe is an integral part of the Orthopaedic Specialty Group, P. C. team since 1997.  Dr. Backe’ exceptional surgical skills are complemented by a personable style and dedication to the highest quality patient outcomes and satisfaction. He is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon and is fellowship trained in the area of trauma.

Non-Surgical Hip Treatments

Hip Arthritis Specialist In The Greater Fairfield & Shelton Areas

Dr. Henry Backe treats hip conditions at his offices in Fairfield and Shelton, Connecticut. Dr. Backe of Orthopaedic Specialty Group, P. C. is a specially-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hip conditions and injuries. Each of his patients receives a unique treatment plan matching their lifestyle goals. As a leader in the minimally invasive Direct Anterior Approach to hip replacement, he is an advocate of state-of-the art technologies that benefit his patients in many ways.

FAQs on Non-Surgical Hip Treatments

Non-surgical hip treatment for hip arthritis begins with basic steps, and progresses to the more involved options, including surgery, if needed. Some of those
steps include weight loss and activity modification. Sometimes a walking aid, like a cane, can help relieve the pressure on the hips.

When all those options have failed, there are some non-surgical treatments that are appropriate for hip arthritis. They include:

Physical Therapy

Strengthening muscles around the hip joint may help decrease burden on the hip. Preventing muscle atrophy is an important part of maintaining use of the hip.

Oral Medications

Oral medications are usually the first treatment for arthritis. Aspirin or other pain relievers may be prescribed to reduce discomfort and swelling. Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements that can decrease the symptoms of arthritis. These are made up of molecules found in cartilage, and therefore might aid the body in restoring mobility. Both glucosamine and chondroitin need to be taken for an extended period of time (generally around three months) before reaching their full effect. Patients should consult an experienced doctor like Dr. Backe about arthritis to see if oral medication is the ideal treatment for their situation.

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone (corticosteroid) is a powerful anti-inflammatory hormone that is injected directly into the affected area to decrease joint swelling which, as a result, increases mobility and function. While corticosteroids reduce inflammation, they are not pain relievers. Any pain that is lessened occurs from the reduced inflammation. Many of Dr. Backe’s patients choose to receive cortisone injections because of the treatment’s rapid inflammation relief, dependability, and minimal side effects. Another advantage to cortisone injections is their ability to be easily administered right in the doctor’s office. The effects of a cortisone shot do not last for an extended period of time, and multiple injections may need to be administered each year. However, Dr. Backe recommends no more than four cortisone injections per year, as numerous injections can actually wear on the area and do more harm.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic Acid injections are a new treatment for arthritis in recent years. This acid is found naturally in the synovial fluid that surrounds the joints. This fluid allows joints to flex and move smoothly by lubricating the bones and joints. By also acting as a shock absorber, hyaluronan prevents the bones from bearing the full force of impact during walking. These injections are typically given as a series of three shots spread one week apart.

Joint Supplements

Glucosamine and Condriotin appear to be safe and may be effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis.