A patient’s guide to hip replacements: Everything you need to know

Hip replacement surgery is a common procedure used to treat various hip conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Understanding the ins and outs of this surgery can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options. In his latest online article, esteemed consultant orthopaedic hip and knee surgeon Mr Shawn Tavares explains everything you need to know about your hip replacement.

What is a hip replacement used to treat?

Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at replacing damaged or diseased parts of the hip joint with artificial components. This surgery is typically performed to address conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that wears down the cartilage in the hip joint, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints, including the hip.
• Traumatic arthritis: Arthritis resulting from a hip injury or fracture.
• Avascular necrosis: A condition where the blood supply to the hip bone is disrupted, leading to bone death and joint damage.

When is it recommended?

Hip replacement surgery is recommended when non-surgical treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications, fail to provide adequate relief from hip pain and dysfunction. Your doctor may recommend hip replacement if you experience:

• Persistent hip pain that interferes with daily activities and affects your quality of life.
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of chairs due to hip stiffness and pain.
• Limited range of motion in the hip joint despite conservative treatments.

Before recommending surgery, your doctor will assess your overall health and evaluate the severity of your hip condition to determine if you are a suitable candidate for hip replacement.

How long does it take to recover?

The recovery timeline after hip replacement surgery varies from patient to patient and depends on several factors, including your overall health, the type of surgery performed, and adherence to post-operative instructions. In general, most patients can expect the following recovery milestones:

• Hospital stay: You will typically stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days following surgery, during which time you will receive pain management, physical therapy, and guidance on post-operative care.
• Walking with assistance: You may be able to walk with the help of a walker or crutches within the first few days after surgery, gradually transitioning to walking with a cane as you regain strength and mobility.
• Return to normal activities: While individual recovery times vary, most patients can resume light activities, such as driving and light household chores, within 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Full recovery and return to more strenuous activities may take several months.

Will my hip return to Normal after a hip replacement?

While hip replacement surgery can significantly improve hip pain and function, it's important to have realistic expectations about the outcome. While many patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after surgery, your new hip may not feel exactly like your natural hip. However, with proper rehabilitation and adherence to your doctor's recommendations, you can expect to enjoy a better quality of life and increased independence.

Mr Shawn Tavares is a renowned consultant orthopaedic hip and knee surgeon based in Reading. If you would like to book a consultation with Mr Tavares, you can do so today via his Top Doctors profile.