5 Myths About Hip Replacement Surgery

Have you tabled the idea of having hip replacement surgery based on one of the following myths? Don’t ignore your pain. We’re here to give you the facts and help you determine if hip replacement surgery is right for you.

Myth #1: Pain is a normal part of aging.

Arthritis aches and pains are not a normal part of aging. The most common cause of chronic hip pain and disability is arthritis. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and traumatic arthritis are the most common forms of this disease.

Myth #2: Hip replacement surgery is only for seniors.

There are no absolute age restrictions for total hip replacement surgery. Recommendations for surgery are based on a patient's pain and disability, not age. Most patients who undergo total hip replacement are age 50 to 80, but orthopaedic surgeons evaluate patients individually. Total hip replacements have been performed successfully at all ages, from the young teenager with juvenile arthritis to the elderly patient with degenerative arthritis.

Myth #3: I should delay hip replacement surgery as long as possible

The risks related to delaying hip replacement surgery often involve the deterioration of the joint, increased pain, and lack of mobility. Delaying care may also result in a more complicated surgery and limit your hip replacement options.

Myth #4: Hip replacement surgery means I’ll spend months on bed rest.

Most patients can begin walking hours after surgery. A physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to strengthen your hip and restore movement to allow walking and other normal daily activities soon after your surgery. If you follow your surgeon’s instructions, you should be able to resume most normal activities of daily living within 3 to 6 weeks following surgery.

Myth #5: Once I have a hip replacement, it will limit my mobility and activities. I won’t be able to participate in sports.

Most people who undergo hip replacement surgery experience a dramatic reduction of hip pain and a significant improvement in the ability to perform common activities of daily living.

As soon as your doctor gives you the go-ahead, you can return to many of the sports activities you enjoyed before your hip replacement. Realistic activities following total hip replacement include unlimited walking, swimming, golf, driving, light hiking, biking, dancing, and other low-impact sports.

Source: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons