Over time, hip joints may be affected by the wearing down of cartilage. This wearing down is known as osteoarthritis. It can cause pain, stiffness, and other symptoms. Advanced osteoarthritis, fracture-caused trauma, disease, tumors, infections, excess weight, and genetics are all reasons that can lead to hip surgery.
Pocatello
Local Hip and Knee Replacement
Dr. Aaron Altenburg of Altenburg Joint Replacement Surgery is a specialized orthopedic surgeon who handles joint replacements of the hip and knee and complex revision surgeries. These orthopedic surgeries are provided with personalization and a focus on patient recovery and wellness.
We invite you to learn about our approach to orthopedic care. Please contact our Pocatello office at (208) 904-0744.
The Hip and Knee Joints
From walking, running, bending, sitting, and climbing stairs, hip and knee joints are commonly used.
The Knee Joint
The largest joint in the body, the knee joint connects the thighbone (femur), shinbone (tibia), and kneecap (patella). Cartilage allows for smooth bending, absorbs impact, and protects bone. The knee joint also includes cushioning and stabilizing pads called menisci and a fluid capsule called the bursae for friction reduction and lubrication.
The Hip Joint
The hip joint is composed of a “ball” and “socket” combination that allows for a range of movements. Cartilage prevents the ball and socket from grinding against each other, and a ring of cartilage called the labrum is important for stabilizing the ball.
What Leads to Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery?
Multiple hip and knee conditions may lead individuals to receive surgical treatment, though non-surgical approaches can adequately treat some hip and knee issues, and we encourage patients to look into these more conservative, non-operative options before deciding on surgery.
As with hip joints, knee joints can be affected by osteoarthritis, the leading cause of knee replacement surgery. Other inflammatory conditions may also lead to surgery. Problems resulting from meniscus and ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears, tumors, fractures, infections, overuse, obesity, inactivity, and structural conditions are also reasons for knee surgery.
Treatment from a Knee and Hip Specialist
Dr. Aaron Altenburg offers evidence-based and experienced care for hips and knees. He was trained at the Mayo Clinic, has 18 years of experience as an orthopedic surgeon, and has performed over 10,000 joint replacements. Trust his surgical expertise.
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About Altenburg Joint Replacement Surgery
"My family and I are incredibly excited to return to the Pacific Northwest and serve the South Eastern Idaho community. I specialize in total hip replacements, total knee replacements, partial knee replacement and difficult knee and hip revisions. My training from the Mayo Clinic is a great foundation for my patients’ successful outcomes at Mountain View Hospital. More importantly, I believe in treating every patients equally and focusing on preserving a caring touch through out your care." -Aaron Altenburg, MD
