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The hip is one of the largest joints in the body. This ball-and-socket joint consists of two main parts: the acetabulum (the hip socket) and the femoral head, the top portion of the femur (thighbone). The articulation between the acetabulum and the femoral head is what enables the hip joint to move fluidly. Aside from the hip joint allowing a variety of leg movements, this joint also plays an integral role in retaining balance and providing a solid base to reinforce the body’s center of gravity.

Despite the durability of the hip joint, there are several factors that can cause chronic hip pain and disability. The cartilage, muscles, tendons, or bones in the hip joint can experience wear or damage from an array of factors including injuries and disease.

Nonsurgical options are often the first-line approach for treatment in the early stages of hip pain. There is a wide range of nonsurgical treatment options available to help alleviate hip pain, increase function and mobility, and reduce symptoms. The choice of treatment should be a mutual decision made between the healthcare provider and the patient.

The decision to have total hip replacement surgery should be a mutual decision between the patient and the surgeon. The recommendation to move forward with surgery is based upon a patient’s pain and disability along with the influence it has on quality of life and daily activities. The majority of patients who have a total hip replacement are between the ages of 50 to 80. More than 90% of patients who have total hip replacement surgery experience a significant improvement in the ability to perform normal daily activities and also experience a dramatic decrease in pain (1) (2). Download the Hip Pre-Op PDF below for more detailed information.

It is important to restore hip motion and strength after a total hip replacement. The recovery and rehabilitation process play a crucial role in helping the patient resume an active, pain-free lifestyle. A gradual return to everyday activities along with exercise can help restore normal hip motion post-surgery. It is important for the patient to be committed to the recovery and rehabilitation goals as the patient’s commitment during this process can greatly improve the chances of long-term success. Download the Hip Post-Op PDF below for more detailed information.

How do I know if I need a total hip replacement?

If you have tried nonsurgical treatments and are still experiencing hip pain or if your pain is preventing you from performing normal daily activities, then you may want to discuss a total hip replacement with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can assess your current diagnosis and determine if a total hip replacement is a good option for you and your lifestyle.

How old is the average patient that has a total hip replacement?

Most patients who undergo total hip replacement surgery are between the ages of 50-80 with the average patient being over 65 years old (3).

How will I benefit from a total hip replacement?

After surgery and rehabilitation, the benefits of a total hip replacement may include:

• Reduction in joint pain and stiffness

• Greater range of motion

• Increased hip stability 

How long will my hip replacement last?

Roughly 90-95% of patients who have a total hip replacement can expect to have their hip functioning normally at 10 years, and nearly 85% of patients can expect to have their hip functioning normally at 20 years. The implant can loosen or experience wear based upon the lifestyle of the patient and the demands on the implanted joint (4).

Will my hip replacement set off metal detectors?

It is unlikely, but possible, that your hip replacement will set off a metal detector. To take precaution, alert the appropriate security staff that you have a hip replacement.

Do I need to take precautions to protect my hip replacement?

To protect and extend the life of your hip replacement you may want to:

• Participate in light exercise to maintain proper strength and mobility

• Avoid falls and injuries

• Do not complete dental work within the first three months after surgery 

• Alert all doctors, including dentist, that you have a total hip replacement 

• Complete routine follow-up examinations with your healthcare provider

Can I have an MRI after my hip replacement surgery?

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a diagnostic tool that can be used for many types of medical conditions, including orthopedic problems. After your hip replacement surgery you will not be able to have a clear MRI of your hip implant. If an MRI is needed, you can have an MRI completed on other parts of your body, but you will want to be sure to alert the MRI personnel about your hip implant.

What type of excercises/activities should I avoid after my hip replacement?

It is best to avoid any exercise that will cause impact to your joint replacement. Consult your surgeon to determine which activities you should avoid, and if you can introduce new exercises or activities during your rehabilitation period.

How can I find a local surgeon that performs total hip replacement surgery?

Please click here to find a surgeon near you that uses Ortho Development hip products.

Steve Phippen | Patient Profile

Steve Phippen is a father, husband, grandfather, and avid outdoors person that has worked in the orthopedic industry for over 31 years. Steve started to experience hip pain and loss of joint space. His activities were about to start being limited.

Steve had his hip replaced with Ortho Development's Ovation Tribute® Hip Stem and Escalade® Acetabular Shell. He had the surgery early on so he wouldn't lose any time doing the things that he loves. This is Steve's Story: