Squeaky hip joint likely aggravating

Dear Dr. Roach: I’m 69 years old. I take no medications. Fifteen years ago, I had a hip replacement and now it is starting to squeak when I walk.

It is a ceramic socket and a titanium ball. Is there any kind of cream I can rub on my hip or an injection I could get? When will I know that I absolutely have to get my hip replaced? — P.F.

Most often the squeak does not indicate a problem.

Unfortunately, there is no cream you can rub on that can get into the prosthetic joint, and no lubricant that can be injected will stay in long enough.

The main goal in evaluation of the joint is to determine whether there is damage to the prosthesis. This requires a history and exam, imaging studies, and possibly blood tests or testing of joint fluid. If the joint is still in good shape, and you are moving well and not in pain, then nothing needs to be done. I would strongly advise against surgical revision of the joint unless there is a clear reason to do so.

Dear Dr. Roach: I’ve been taking the statin Zocor for the past 30 years. I understand that one of the side effects is diabetes. I will be 84 in August, and I have a family history of diabetes. My A1C reading put me in the prediabetes range. I have remained active. I weigh 199 pounds at 5 feet, 11 inches tall.

I’m aware that after 65, the pancreas produces less insulin. What are your recommendations? — R.C.

Resistance to insulin is the primary reason. This is opposed to decreased insulin output. The mechanisms by which statins predispose a person to diabetes are not clear.

Regular exercise and a moderate diet are the mainstays of diabetes prevention. Visit a registered dietitian nutritionist for personalized advice.

A few pounds of weight lost could reduce your risk of developing diabetes in the future.