Total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is often called the “surgery of the century” due to its profound impact on quality of life. It is a procedure in which a damaged or worn-out hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis). The surgery is commonly performed to relieve pain and improve mobility in patients with severe arthritis, hip fractures, or other hip joint disorders.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage and replaces them with metal, ceramic, or plastic components designed to mimic the natural movement of the hip. The goal is to restore function, reduce pain, and help patients return to their normal daily activities.
MBBS (KEM, Mumbai), MS Ortho, DNB Ortho
FNB Arthroplasty, MRCSEd.(UK) MNAMS
Fellowship in Revision Joint Replacement (Germany)
You may need a hip replacement if you have:
Hip or groin pain while walking, sitting, or getting up
Pain even at rest or at night
Difficulty bending, sitting cross-legged, or wearing shoes and socks
Pain spreading to the thigh or knee
Need to take pain medicines almost daily
Trouble with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or household work
Walking with a limp or needing a stick for support
Poor quality of life due to ongoing hip pain
If hip pain is affecting your daily life and other treatments have not helped, hip replacement surgery can relieve pain and help you move better.
A hip replacement is designed to last for many years.
For most patients, it lasts more than 20 years
* Your activity level
* Body weight
* How well you care for the joint
* Regular follow-up with your doctor
With sensible use and proper care, many hip replacements can last a lifetime.
The exact timing depends on:
* Your overall health
* Pain control
* Ability to walk safely with support
* Progress with physiotherapy
Some patients may go home earlier or may need a slightly longer stay, depending on recovery.
After a hip replacement, a few activity precautions help protect your new hip and ensure long-term comfort.
Sitting and squatting
* Deep squatting and sitting cross-legged are not advised
* These positions place extra stress on the artificial hip and may cause discomfort or early wear
* Using a commode or toilet chair is safer and recommended
Physical activity
* Low-impact activities such as walking and swimming are encouraged
* Regular activity helps maintain strength and smooth hip movement
Activities to avoid
* Running, jumping, and heavy physical work should be avoided
* High-impact activities can damage the joint and shorten implant life
By following these precautions, most patients enjoy a stable, pain-free hip and a good quality of life for many years.
We follow Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols to help you recover faster and safely.
First 0–5 Hours After Surgery
* You will be closely monitored
* Most patients can stand and take a few steps with support within 4–5 hours
Day 1
* Physiotherapy starts
* Gentle hip movements and walking with a walker or crutches
* Pain is controlled with medicines
Day 2–3
* Continued physiotherapy to improve strength and movement
* Practice walking, climbing a few steps, and daily activities
* Most patients can use the washroom independently
* Discharge usually happens during this time, depending on recovery
First Week at Home – Important Tips
* Keep the wound clean and dry
* Do the exercises advised by your physiotherapist
* Use walking aids as instructed
* Follow your doctor’s advice regarding medicines and activity
Isn’t hip replacement only for elderly people?
Not always. While hip replacement is commonly done in older adults, some younger individuals may also need it due to specific medical conditions.
What are the common reasons in young patients?
The most common causes are:
* Avascular Necrosis (AVN) – loss of blood supply to the hip bone
* Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or other inflammatory joint diseases
AVN occurs when the blood supply to the hip bone is reduced or cut off.
Over time, this causes the bone to weaken and collapse, leading to severe pain and difficulty walking, even in young and active individuals.
Inflammatory conditions cause long-standing joint inflammation, which slowly damages the hip joint.
This can result in pain, stiffness, and loss of movement, making everyday activities difficult despite medications.
In early stages, medicines and lifestyle changes may help.
However, when the hip joint is severely damaged, these treatments may no longer provide relief.
Hip replacement is recommended when pain becomes constant, movement is restricted, and quality of life is affected.
The aim is to relieve pain, restore movement, and help you return to a normal, active life.
Yes. Modern implants and surgical techniques are designed to last many years.
With proper care and follow-up, young patients can expect excellent pain relief and improved function.
Most patients return to work, travel, and daily activities with much less pain.
The goal is not just surgery, but giving you back comfort, confidence, and independence.
After a hip replacement, a few activity precautions help protect your new hip and ensure long-term comfort.
Sitting and squatting
* Deep squatting and sitting cross-legged are not advised
* These positions place extra stress on the artificial hip and may cause discomfort or early wear
* Using a commode or toilet chair is safer and recommended
Physical activity
* Low-impact activities such as walking and swimming are encouraged
* Regular activity helps maintain strength and smooth hip movement
Activities to avoid
* Running, jumping, and heavy physical work should be avoided
* High-impact activities can damage the joint and shorten implant life
By following these precautions, most patients enjoy a stable, pain-free hip and a good quality of life for many years.