Many adults with hip pain that limits activity wonder if a hip replacement is the only option. Certainly, more information is necessary. However, if proper steps are taken early enough, a new hip is not necessarily necessary.

Arthritis happens with age, it just does. But just because a person has hip arthritis does not mean a hip replacement is the only option. If the early warning signs are addressed, long-term function is possible. The problem is most people ignore the warning signs until their mobility really starts to be impacted.

Warning Signs?

Yes, these are the small things that people brush off because they don’t stop a person from being active…at least initially. These are things like increased difficulty bending over to say tie shoes or maybe having to sit down to put pants on because of an inability to stand on one foot. It could be noticing early morning stiffness that will go away after moving around for 20-30 minutes. Other tasks like walking up stairs (but only leading with one leg due to leg weakness) and leg fatigue more quickly when walking can also be early indicators.

What happens during this time is a slow loss of hip motion and muscle strength. Over time these small changes add up ultimately resulting in pain and impaired mobility. The trouble is that by the time most people reach out for help they have lost a good deal of motion and strength…and often are taking pain medication on a regular basis. So, by the time they visit the orthopedic doctor, they are all too happy to recommend a hip replacement.

But what if you could go back to the beginning? Back to the time when maybe you first noticed some stiffness, weakness, or pain. What could be done then? More than one might think.

If addressed in early stages, the impact of “arthritis” can be managed. By working to maintain joint motion and muscle strength, the person will be able to remain active for years to come without risking further damage to the hip joint. In fact, if managed properly it just might be possible to avoid a hip replacement altogether.

So the answer to the question is, NO, a hip replacement is not the only option. To provide the best opportunity for success, it would be wise to seek guidance from a muscle and joint expert sooner than later if you have any concerns. The worst case is you learn exercises to improve your strength and mobility, ultimately needing surgery years down the road. Or best case, no surgery is ever necessary because you managed to maintain your strength and mobility.

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