What is hip replacement surgery?

Hip replacement, also called total hip replacement or total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes damaged portions of the hip joint and replaces them with artificial components. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function.

How do I know if I need a hip replacement?

Hip replacement may be considered when chronic hip pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility significantly affects your daily activities and nonsurgical treatments are no longer providing adequate relief. An orthopedic hip specialist can evaluate your symptoms, joint damage, overall health, and treatment history to determine whether hip replacement is appropriate.

What conditions can lead to hip replacement?

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common reasons for hip replacement. Other conditions that may severely damage the hip joint include rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis, and certain hip injuries or disorders.

What is the difference between total hip replacement and anterior hip replacement?

Total hip replacement describes the procedure in which damaged portions of the hip joint are replaced with artificial components. Anterior hip replacement refers to one surgical approach used to perform a total hip replacement, in which the surgeon accesses the joint from the front of the hip. The best surgical approach depends on several individual factors and should be discussed with your orthopedic surgeon.

How long does it take to recover from hip replacement?

Hip replacement recovery varies from patient to patient. Many people begin walking shortly after surgery, but regaining strength, mobility, and function takes time. Your surgeon will provide a personalized recovery plan and guidance about returning to work, driving, exercise, and other activities.

How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip replacement implants are designed to provide long-term function, but the lifespan of an implant varies based on factors such as age, activity level, overall health, implant type, and wear over time. Your orthopedic surgeon can discuss what you can reasonably expect based on your individual circumstances.

What activities can I do after a hip replacement?

The goal of hip replacement is to help patients return to comfortable everyday movement. Walking and many low-impact activities are commonly encouraged after recovery. Your surgeon will provide recommendations regarding exercise, sports, work, and higher-impact activities based on your recovery and individual circumstances.

Is hip replacement the only treatment for hip arthritis?

No. Many patients with hip arthritis begin with nonsurgical treatments such as activity modification, physical therapy, exercise, medications, or injections. Hip replacement may be considered when arthritis becomes severe and conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief.

When should I see a hip replacement specialist?

Consider seeing an orthopedic hip specialist if hip or groin pain is persistent, limits your mobility, interferes with sleep or everyday activities, or has not improved with conservative treatment. An evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and whether nonsurgical care or hip replacement may be appropriate.

Hip Replacement in Colorado | Orthopedic Centers of Colorado

Hip Replacement

Move with less pain and greater confidence with expert hip replacement care at Orthopedic Centers of Colorado. Chronic hip pain can make even simple activities—walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of a chair, or putting on shoes—difficult. When nonsurgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief, hip replacement may help restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life.

Hip replacement, also known as total hip replacement or total hip arthroplasty, replaces damaged portions of the hip joint with artificial components designed to restore smooth, comfortable movement. OCC’s experienced orthopedic surgeons specialize in advanced joint replacement and reconstruction, providing personalized treatment based on your condition, anatomy, lifestyle, and goals.

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Comprehensive Hip Replacement Care

Evaluation and Diagnosis: Your hip replacement journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Your orthopedic specialist will review your symptoms and medical history, examine your hip’s strength and range of motion, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to assess joint damage. This evaluation helps determine whether hip replacement or another treatment option is best suited to your needs.

Personalized Treatment Planning: Hip replacement is generally considered when significant joint damage causes persistent pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility and nonsurgical treatments are no longer providing sufficient relief. Your OCC surgeon will discuss your diagnosis, treatment options, expected outcomes, and the potential benefits and risks of surgery so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Advanced Hip Replacement Surgery: During total hip replacement, damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with artificial joint components. Depending on your individual needs and your surgeon’s recommendation, different surgical approaches and technologies may be considered. Your surgeon will determine the approach best suited to your anatomy, condition, and treatment goals.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: Recovery is an important part of a successful hip replacement. Your care team will provide guidance for safely returning to everyday activities and restoring strength and mobility. Physical therapy or a structured home exercise program may be recommended based on your individual recovery needs.

Continued Follow-Up and Support: OCC’s commitment to your care continues after surgery. Follow-up visits allow your orthopedic team to monitor healing, evaluate your progress, answer questions, and help you safely return to the activities that matter most to you.

When Is Hip Replacement Recommended?

Hip replacement may be considered when hip pain and joint damage significantly interfere with everyday life and conservative treatments are no longer effective. Patients considering hip replacement may experience:

Persistent hip or groin pain
Pain with walking, standing, or climbing stairs
Hip pain while resting or at night
Stiffness or decreased range of motion
Difficulty putting on shoes or socks
Limping or difficulty walking
Difficulty getting in or out of a chair or vehicle
Reduced ability to participate in work, exercise, or everyday activities

A consultation with an orthopedic hip specialist can help identify the source of your symptoms and determine whether surgery is appropriate.

Hip Replacement Procedures & Conditions Treated

Our hip specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and surgical treatment for patients who may benefit from hip replacement or reconstruction. Services and conditions treated may include:

Total Hip Replacement
Total Hip Arthroplasty
Anterior Hip Replacement
Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement
Revision Hip Replacement
Hip Resurfacing
Osteoarthritis of the Hip
Rheumatoid and Inflammatory Arthritis
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Avascular Necrosis
Severe Hip Joint Damage

Patient-Centered Care

No two patients experience hip pain in exactly the same way. At Orthopedic Centers of Colorado, our approach to hip replacement is centered on your individual needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Our orthopedic specialists take the time to explain your diagnosis, answer your questions, and help you understand your treatment options. From your initial evaluation through surgery, rehabilitation, and follow-up care, our goal is to help you move more comfortably and confidently and return to the activities you enjoy.