FAQs: Hip Replacement Surgery
Below, we address some common questions about pain management and provide insights into what you can anticipate when scheduling an appointment.
When should I see an Orthopedist for my hip pain?
Make an appointment with an orthopedist that specializes in caring for hips if you experience:
- Difficulty standing
- Pain when bending at the waist
- Pain when walking or climbing stairs
- Swollen or bruised hip
What types of non-surgical treatments are offered?
Depending on your specific condition, your doctor may recommend:
- Anti-inflammatory medications – reduce swelling, pain, or joint stiffness
- Splints or braces – protect and support bones, ligaments, tendons, and tissues
- Custom orthotics – provide personalized foot support
- Injections – deliver medication directly to an affected area; ultrasound-guided injections are available at some locations
- Steroid injection – reduces inflammation in and around your joint
- Nerve block – relieves severe, chronic pain by injecting a local anesthetic and steroid to an affected nerve
- Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid injection) – delivers a gel-like lubricating fluid to your joint to help it move more smoothly and preserve cartilage
- Physical Therapy – teaches you gentle exercises to help you reduce pain, increase your range of motion, and move more comfortably
What types of orthopaedic surgery for hips are offered?
We frequently offer Anterior Approach Hip Replacement and Hip Navigation.
What hurts the most after hip replacement surgery?
It’s typical to encounter discomfort in the hip, groin, and thigh regions following the procedure as your body adapts to the alterations made to the joints. Additionally, some patients may experience pain in the thigh and knee.
Can I climb the stairs after a hip replacement?
Yes, under supervision. Prior to leaving the hospital we have patients go up and down stairs.
What is the life expectancy of a hip replacement?
A hip replacement is expected to last about 25 years in most patients.
How long is hip replacement recovery?
On average, hip replacement recovery is six weeks, at that point you should be walking normally.
Can you still have arthritis after a hip replacement?
No. Joint replacement surgery removes all the arthritis in that joint.
How long after surgery until I can drive?
Patients may not drive while taking any pain medications which impair driving skills. Check with your provider.
How long after surgery does it take to walk without a walker?
Most patients will continue to need the walker for six weeks postoperative; if you feel that you still need it for safety/balance, please continue to use it.
What are you not allowed to do after a hip replacement?
Avoid twisting, if it hurts while doing it, don’t do it.
What is the best way to recover from a hip replacement?
- Prepare your home in advance.
- Plan for time off work.
- Balance rest and recovery with gentle exercise.
- Think about your nutrition to help with recovery.
- Be mindful of your hip.
- Think about your holidays and travel plans.
Will I be able to dance again after a hip replacement?
After three to six months, most patients get back to dancing.