I'VE had a hip replacement, how long will it last?

Your new hip should allow you virtually normal, pain-free activity for many years.

Around 80% of cemented hips should last for 20 years.

Younger, more active patients often get cementless hip replacements and these may last longer, although this isn't confirmed in long-term studies. Hip replacements can eventually wear out, because the hip replacement implants are made of metal and plastic, these materials begin to wear over time.

MY son got grit in his eye does he need medical treatment?

Minor irritation or injury to the front of the eye usually doesn't require medical treatment and should clear up within 24 hours. If you experience discomfort, painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may help. Don't touch or rub your eye, apply pressure to it or wear contact lenses until it's fully healed to prevent further damage. See your GP or optician if you have any concerns about your injury . If you have loose particles in your eye or if it has been exposed to chemicals, flush it out with eyewash or plenty of clean water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. If you wear contact lenses, remember to remove them before flushing the eye. Many eye injuries are preventable if you take appropriate safety precautions during leisure activities or work – for example, wearing eye protection when hammering metal and using power tools. You should also follow instructions on the safe and hygienic use of contact lenses.

WHAT is Tennis Elbow?

Clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, Tennis elbow is a condition that causes pain around the outside of the elbow. It normally occurs after the muscles and tendons of the forearm have been overused, resulting in pain near the elbow joint. Tennis elbow is a common sporting injury, and is prevalent in those who participate in tennis, badminton, squash or weight lifting. It can also be a common injury for musicians, particularly those who play stringed instruments or drums.

Tennis elbow causes pain and tenderness on the outside of your elbow. Pain also may occur in your forearm or the back of your hand. Common symptoms include pain on the outside of your forearm, just below your elbow, pain when lifting or bending your arm, pain when writing or gripping small objects and pain when twisting or rotating your forearm.

Tennis elbow can last between six months and two years, however most people will make a full recovery within one year.

Although you may be able to treat tennis elbow at home, you may have to visit your GP or physiotherapist if over the counter painkillers and self help tips aren't working. Your GP or physiotherapist will ask you about your symptoms and perform an examination of the elbow and arm. He or she may also ask about your hobbies, medical history and work. Tennis elbow can usually be diagnosed by asking about your symptoms and pinpointing what makes the pain worse.

Tennis elbow will usually heal on it's own. Modifying your daily activities along with some self help tips will clear up the majority of cases. Treatment usually includes applying ice to reduce pain and swelling, using an elbow strap to reduce the risk of further straining and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin.

In severe cases, surgery, shock wave therapy or Corticosteroid injections may be recommended.