Hip pain can have an enormous impact on your quality of life. Everyday movements that used to be easy—such as standing up, climbing the stairs, putting on clothes or driving a car—become very challenging. The pain may also prevent you from getting restful sleep due to difficulty in finding a comfortable position.

Luckily, there are treatments that can provide relief and help you regain your mobility and independence. One such option is a hip replacement.

What Is a Hip Replacement?

A hip replacement, also known as a hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged parts of your hip joint with a metal or plastic implant. The goals are to:

• Restore your hip’s functionality
• Increase your hip joint’s range of motion
• Minimize pain
• Improve your quality of life

What Usually Causes Hip Pain?

If you are dealing with ongoing hip pain, it is likely due to one of the following health conditions:

• Osteoarthritis: when the cartilage between your bones wears down, leading the bones to rub against each other
  • Post-traumatic arthritis: a form of osteoarthritis that develops after a major injury
• Rheumatoid arthritis: when your body’s immune system begins attacking the tissue that lines your joints
• Avascular necrosis: when part of your bone dies due to lack of blood supply
• A severe hip fracture

How Do I Know If I Need a Hip Replacement?

An orthopedist can help you determine if you need a hip replacement. Set up an appointment so that you can discuss your situation.

During your appointment, your orthopedist will likely:

• Obtain a detailed history of your medical and orthopedic issues
• Physically examine your hip to determine its strength and range of motion, as well as the location and mechanics associated with pain 
• Order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs or CT scans
• Order blood tests to assess your overall health

Depending on their evaluation, your orthopedist may suggest trying non-surgical treatments first. These could include:

• Activity modifications
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Weight management
• Walkers, canes, rollators or assistive ambulatory devices
• Joint injections

If these treatments are unsuccessful or if the condition causing your hip pain is advanced, then your orthopedist may determine that a hip replacement is right for you.

Are There Any Downsides to a Hip Replacement?

There are risks associated with getting a hip replacement. These include:

• Infection
• Blood clots in your legs or lungs
• Bone fractures around the implant
• Loosening, dislocation, or wearing down of the implant
• Perceived or actual difference in leg length
• Nerve damage
• Ongoing pain or stiffness

You can minimize these risks by doing the following as you recover:

• Read and abide to information provided in pre-operative handbook and coursework.
• Attend all follow-up appointments with your orthopedist.
• If applicable, attend all of your physical therapy sessions and/or follow the exercise routine your physical therapist assigns you.
• Keep the area around your incision clean and dry to prevent infection. Ask your orthopedist for tips on proper bathing.
• Do not overexert yourself.
• Take all of your prescribed medications as directed.
• Do not drive until your orthopedist says it’s okay.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Hip Replacement?

While everyone is different, most hip replacement recipients make a full recovery within six to 12 weeks. It may take up to a year, depending on:

• Your age
• Your overall health
• How well you stick to your aftercare routine

How Will I Feel After a Hip Replacement?

If the surgery goes well and you make a full recovery, you will feel less pain and a greater range of motion in your hip. 

However, it is important to maintain reasonable expectations for yourself. High-impact activities, such as running, singles tennis, or basketball are typically discouraged to reduce wear and tear on the implant. But eventually, you will likely be able to do low-impact forms of exercise, like yoga, Pilates, tai chi, cycling, swimming and golfing.

Make sure to talk to your orthopedist and physical therapist about what physical activities are safe for you to do.

How Long Does a Hip Replacement Last?

Over 90 percent of modern hip implants last for 20 years or longer, depending on your activity levels and the implant’s materials.