Total Hip Replacement Nowra

What is a Total Hip Replacement?

A total hip replacement (also called hip arthroplasty) is a safe and common procedure. In fact, approximately 40,000 people get a new hip in Australia each year.

During a total hip replacement, your South Coast Orthopaedics surgeon will remove your damaged joint surface and replace it with an artificial implant. This procedure requires admission to hospital, anaesthesia, major surgery, and rehabilitation.

Why do I need one?

If your surgeon has suggested a total hip replacement, it’s probably because you are experiencing severe hip pain that cannot be controlled through diet, exercise or medication.

Most people who need a total hip replacement have experienced either:
  • Hip arthritis
  • A hip injury or fracture that has caused a reduction in blood supply to the area
  • A hip dislocation
Deciding to have a total hip replacement is a big decision, and you should talk to your GP as well as our specialist orthopaedic surgeon and family members about what this will mean for you.

How long does recovery from a total hip replacement take?

Your recovery time will depend on your own individual situation; however, with regular physiotherapy, most patients find that they can walk short distances without pain within 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients can walk as far as they want to after about 12 weeks.

How should I prepare for a total hip replacement?

Taking the time to prepare for a total hip replacement can help you recover faster and ensure a successful result. Here are some tips on how to best prepare:
  • Understand the procedure and ask questions
    It can be hard to remember all your questions during your appointment. Try writing down your questions on a piece of paper and go in prepared.
  • Think about your job or other commitments
    When you come to our rooms for your consultation, talk to your surgeon about how total hip replacement surgery will affect your job or other commitments. Many people find that they need a few weeks or sometimes months off work.
  • Get in shape
    A strong upper body will make using crutches or a walker a lot easier. If you can, it’s a great idea to spend some time in a pool or at the gym doing some ‘prehab’ strength building. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.
  • Get family and friends to help
    No one can recover from hip replacement alone. Talk to your family and friends about how they can help you. If you live alone, see if someone can stay with you for a few weeks. Talk to your doctor about other rehabilitation options if you don't have a support system.
  • Rearrange your home
    If you’re planning on recovering at home, you’ll need to think about how you will move about the house. If there are stairs in your house, consider moving your bed to the ground floor. Make sure you have things like phones, computers and TV remotes within easy reach. Remove loose rugs and tripping hazards and make sure that your home is easy to move around with a walker or crutches.