Modern Hip & Knee Replacement in Long Beach, CA

Most patients start with a structured nonsurgical plan: physical therapy, weight optimization and lifestyle changes, and targeted injections for joint pain such as corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, or PRP. With the right combination, many people experience meaningful relief for months or even years — and even if surgery becomes necessary later, starting with conservative care leads to better outcomes.

When nonsurgical treatment no longer provides relief and pain begins to affect daily life, it may be time to explore surgical options. If arthritis pain consistently limits your daily activities despite reasonable conservative management, joint replacement may be appropriate. Dr. Zalikha ensures that decision is made carefully and collaboratively, only when truly needed.

It is not “robot surgery” — the surgeon performs every aspect of the procedure. Before surgery, a CT scan creates a 3D model of your anatomy that Dr. Zalikha uses to plan implant size, position, and alignment. During the operation, the robotic system provides real-time guidance to help execute that plan with a high degree of accuracy, while the surgeon remains in full control at all times.

No. While the anterior approach is appropriate for the majority of primary hip replacements, factors such as body habitus, prior hip surgery, or complex deformities may make a different approach a better choice. Dr. Zalikha is trained in multiple approaches and will assess your anatomy, imaging, health status, and goals to give you an honest recommendation.

New or persistent pain in a replaced joint should not be ignored. It can have several causes, and a thorough workup is essential — including ruling out infection. If you experience new or worsening pain, swelling, warmth, drainage, or fever, seek prompt evaluation; early evaluation and intervention improve the chances of successful treatment.

The workup typically includes blood tests for markers of inflammation, joint aspiration with cell counts and cultures to identify the specific bacteria, and X-rays or advanced imaging when needed. In some cases the definitive diagnosis is made during surgery, when tissue samples are sent for culture and pathology. Dr. Zalikha manages prosthetic joint infection in close collaboration with infectious disease specialists.

Bring your photo ID and insurance card, a list of current medications (names and dosages), any relevant imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, a list of prior surgeries — especially previous hip or knee procedures — and notes about your symptoms and the treatments you have already tried. If you have had joint surgery elsewhere, operative reports and implant records are helpful.