Total hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial one (prosthesis). The goal is to relieve pain, improve joint function, and restore a better quality of life.

This surgery is most often performed when the hip joint has been damaged by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a traumatic injury and when non-surgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief.

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint formed by:

• The femoral head (the ball at the top of the thigh bone)
• The acetabulum (the socket in the pelvic bone)

Cartilage covers the surfaces of the ball and socket, allowing smooth, pain-free movement. When this cartilage wears down, the bones rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.

Your orthopedic surgeon may recommend THR if you experience:

• Chronic hip pain that limits everyday activities (e.g., walking, bending, or getting up from a chair)
• Hip stiffness that affects your ability to move freely
• Pain that persists even at rest
• Limited response to non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections

• Osteoarthritis – age-related wear and tear of joint cartilage
• Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation
• Post-traumatic arthritis – arthritis that follows an injury
• Avascular necrosis – loss of bone tissue due to poor blood supply
• Hip fractures – particularly in elderly patients or those with poor bone health

• Total Hip Replacement: The most common type, where both the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) are replaced.
• Partial Hip Replacement: Only the ball of the hip joint is replaced. This is typically done for certain fractures.
• Hip Resurfacing: A bone-conserving option where the damaged bone is capped rather than replaced. More common in younger, active patients.

Medical Evaluation

Before surgery, your doctor will evaluate your overall health, order X-rays or MRIs, and may request lab tests to ensure you're a good candidate.

Pre-Surgery Recommendations

• Quit smoking
• Lose excess weight if needed
• Strengthen muscles through prehabilitation exercises
• Adjust medications, especially blood thinners
• Prepare your home for recovery (e.g., install handrails, remove tripping hazards)

The surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours and involves several steps:

• Anesthesia: You'll receive general or spinal anesthesia based on your medical condition and preference.
• Incision and Exposure: An incision is made over the hip to expose the joint.
• Removal of Damaged Bone: The damaged ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) are removed.
• Implant Placement: A prosthetic socket is inserted into the pelvis, and a prosthetic ball is attached to the top of the femur.
• Closure and Recovery: The wound is closed with sutures or staples, and bandages are applied.

Hip implants are made from a combination of:

• Metal (titanium, cobalt-chromium)
• Ceramic
• High-grade plastics

Your surgeon will choose the implant material based on factors like age, activity level, bone quality, and medical history.

Hospital Stay

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–3 days. Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent blood clots and speed up recovery.

Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation begins the same day or next day after surgery and is essential for:

• Regaining strength and mobility
• Preventing complications
• Restoring balance and function

Recovery Timeline

• First week: Use of a walker or crutches, basic movement with support
• 2–6 weeks: Gradual improvement in mobility and strength
• 6–12 weeks: Return to most daily activities
• 3–6 months: Resumption of low-impact sports and full independence
• 6–12 months: Full recovery and maximum implant stability

While total hip replacement is generally safe and effective, every surgery carries some risk. Potential complications include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Dislocation of the new joint
• Leg length discrepancy
• Nerve injury
• Loosening or wear of the implant

Choosing an experienced orthopedic surgeon and following post-op instructions significantly reduces these risks.

• Over 90% of patients experience major pain relief
• Most implants last 15–20 years or more
• Improved mobility and quality of life

After full recovery, most patients can enjoy walking, cycling, swimming, and even dancing—though high-impact sports may be discouraged.

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay active with low-impact exercises
• Avoid high-impact or twisting activities
• Use assistive devices if recommended
• Attend regular checkups with your orthopedic surgeon

With proper care, your new hip can serve you well for decades.

Q: Will I need another surgery in the future?

A: Hip implants generally last 15–20 years. Younger patients may need a revision later in life.

Q: Can I climb stairs after surgery?

A: Yes, after physical therapy and sufficient healing, stair climbing becomes easier and safer.

Q: How soon can I drive after surgery?

A: Most patients can resume driving around 4–6 weeks post-op, once they can move comfortably and safely.

Q: Will the new hip feel natural?

A: Most patients report a significant reduction in pain and a natural feel during daily activities, though it may not feel exactly like the original joint.

Total hip replacement is a transformative procedure that offers relief from chronic pain, restored mobility, and improved quality of life for countless individuals worldwide. If hip pain is preventing you from living the life you want, it may be time to explore surgical options.

Get Back on Your Feet with Dr. Rahul Jain

Ready to reclaim your mobility and live pain-free? Trust Dr. Rahul Jain—a skilled and compassionate orthopedic expert—to guide you through every step of your total hip replacement journey.