Day of hip replacement

Overview

A hip replacement is an operation to replace a worn or damaged hip joint with an artificial one. On the day of your surgery, you will go to hospital, have the operation, and begin your recovery.

Hip replacement is a common and successful operation.

It is usually done for people with severe hip pain from arthritis or injury, most often in those over 60.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in the hip that limits walking, bending, or daily activities.
• Stiffness making it hard to move the hip joint.
• Trouble sleeping because of hip pain.

Symptoms in children

• Hip problems in children are rare, but may include limping, pain, or stiffness from conditions like hip dysplasia.

Symptoms in older adults

• Gradual increase in hip pain with activity.
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of chairs.
• Feeling unsteady when standing or walking.

Causes

Main causes

• Osteoarthritis – wear and tear of the joint cartilage.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – inflammation of the joint lining.
• Hip fracture or injury that damages the joint.

Risk factors

• Age over 60.
• Being overweight.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you suddenly cannot move your hip or leg after a fall.
• If you have a fever and your hip is red, swollen, or very painful.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have persistent hip pain that makes daily activities hard, and it does not improve with rest or simple pain relievers.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine your hip. They may order imaging tests to look at the joint.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray of the hip.
• MRI scan if more detail is needed.
• Physical exam to check movement and strength.

What to expect at your appointment

On the day of surgery, you will be admitted, meet your surgical team, and have the operation. Afterwards you will wake up in a recovery area where nurses will monitor you closely.

Treatment

Treatment for hip pain often starts with non-surgical options. If these do not help enough, hip replacement surgery may be recommended.

Self-care at home

• Use a walking aid (like a cane or walker) to take pressure off the hip.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
• Do gentle exercises as advised by your physiotherapist.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may suggest pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines. Surgery replaces the damaged joint with an artificial one made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered when non-surgical treatments no longer control the pain and you have trouble doing everyday activities like walking, dressing, or sleeping.

Living with this condition

After a hip replacement, most people can return to normal activities within 3 to 6 months. On the day of surgery, you will be encouraged to sit up and take a few steps with help.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid low chairs, deep sofas, and twisting movements.
• Use a raised toilet seat and a long-handled shoe horn.
• Follow your physiotherapy plan to strengthen your leg.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and vitamins to help healing. Start with gentle exercises like ankle pumps and walking, as your physiotherapist directs.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel anxious, down, or frustrated during recovery. Talk to your healthcare team or a counsellor if you need support.

Prevention

Hip arthritis cannot always be prevented, but keeping a healthy weight and staying active may lower your risk of needing a hip replacement.

Complications

If left untreated

• If severe hip pain is not treated, it can lead to loss of mobility, muscle weakness, and a lower quality of life.
• You may become less independent and need more help with daily tasks.

Long-term outlook

Most people who have a hip replacement get lasting pain relief and are able to move better. With proper care, a new hip joint can last 20 years or more.

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