WHAT IS A TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT?
A total hip replacement is a surgical procedure where the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced with ball and cup which is made from metal, plastic, ceramic or a combination. The surgery takes up to an hour and a half and is completed by an orthopaedic surgeon. The operation consists of the surgeon cutting into the hip, removing the damaged bone and inserting the artificial joint and fixing it to the bone
Total hip replacements are completed when the hip joint has been severely damaged usually due to osteoarthritis, trauma or other joint diseases. This surgery is usually recommended when non-surgical techniques do not help the patient where they are still limited in everyday activities. Your physiotherapist or GP will refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon if they believe you need a total hip replacement.
WHAT CAN I DO AT HOME?
It is important that you complete your at-home exercises prescribed, in addition, you should try and take regular walks.
HOW LONG WILL MY RECOVERY BE?
Generally, most people will need to use crutches for 4-6 weeks after surgery although this does vary person to person. You will be able to walk without crutches when you can walk without a limp, pain or swelling, and are confident to manage on your own.