The ball-and-socket hip joint is one of the body’s largest joints and this procedure replaces both the ‘ball,’ (the head of the thighbone), and ‘socket’ (the acetabulum — which his part of the large pelvis bone). In a healthy hip joint, cartilage and a lubricating membrane coats the ball and socket and enables it to move easily. A hip replacement can help with a range of issues, ranging from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis to avascular necrosis of the femoral head, or even a childhood hip disease causing problems later in life. 

Hip replacements are usually suggested when medication, walking supports or non-surgical treatment fails to relieve your symptoms. You’ll most likely be able to walk with crutches immediately after surgery and if physical therapy is required, it can usually start within a few days. Depending on your specific circumstances, we may also give you a set of simple exercises to help restore your strength and mobility. 

As this surgery involves an incision, you will need to have your stitches or staples removed approximately two weeks after your surgery. This surgery requires a hospital stay of up to four days after which you may need physical therapy or be given a set of simple exercises to help restore your strength and range of motion. Most patients are back to light activities within four to six weeks.