Medically Reviewed by
Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
Undergoing hip replacement surgery is a major decision that can potentially improve your quality of life. While the
idea of surgery may be daunting, it can alleviate pain, allowing patients to return to normal activities and reclaim
their independence.
How can you tell if you might need a hip replacement? Here are some signs to look out for.
Hip replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged hip joint with an artificial joint to
reduce pain and restore function. This procedure is typically performed when non-surgical treatments, such as
medication and physiotherapy, have failed to alleviate pain and improve function. This surgical treatment is
commonly done in patients with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures.
There are two main types of hip replacement surgery:
The choice between total and partial hip replacement depends on various factors, including the extent of the damage to the hip joint, the patient's age and overall health, and the surgeon's recommendations.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a hip surgeon for a detailed evaluation and find out if a hip replacement is appropriate for you.
Persistent pain in and around the hip joint even when at rest. This pain may even radiate to the groin, thigh, lower back and knee joints.
Difficulty balancing or supporting body weight on one leg can be a sign of weakness or instability in the hip joint. The loss of function in the hip joint, often due to cartilage damage or bone-or-bone friction, can make it difficult to bear weight effectively.
Many people with hip issues find that their pain worsens when they are lying down or trying to sleep. They often struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position because even slight movements can trigger pain.
Before considering hip replacement surgery, doctors usually recommend trying conservative options such as anti-inflammatory medications, physiotherapy, and steroid injections. However, in serious cases, these options may fail to provide relief and hip replacement becomes the best option.
When pain becomes so severe that everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, putting on shoes, and getting in and out of chairs become difficult, it may warrant a hip replacement.
Difficulty walking, bending the hip, or lifting the leg can be caused by joint damage, such as arthritis or cartilage wear. Inflammation and muscle weakness can also contribute to stiffness. When this is persistent and accompanied by severe pain, a hip replacement may be necessary.
The constant pain from hip problems can take a toll on your mental health, leading to
anxiety, hopelessness, depression, or social isolation. If you are experiencing these
challenges, it might be a sign that there are more serious underlying issues that require a
more invasive approach.
You do not have to live with chronic hip pain. If you are experiencing persistent or
worsening symptoms, please consult an orthopaedic surgeon to develop the most appropriate
treatment plan for your needs.
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
With over 20 years of experience, Dr Wang Lushun specialises in sports orthopaedics and complex joint reconstruction procedures. As the former Head of The Division of Hip and Knee Surgery at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, he has treated athletes and sports professionals, helping patients manage injuries and work towards their recovery goals.
