Hip pain and hip replacement
Hip problems often cause pain in the groin, thigh or buttock, stiffness or a limp. Pain around the hip can also come from the lower back, so assessment checks both.
Treatment without surgery
Options include exercise, physiotherapy, weight management, pain-relief medicines, a walking aid and, in selected cases, injections.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered when other treatments no longer help and the hip seriously affects daily life.
- Keyhole surgery (hip arthroscopy)For selected problems inside the joint.
- Total hip replacementReplaces the ball and socket of the joint with artificial parts.
- Robotic-arm-assisted replacementThe surgeon performs the operation, and the system helps carry out the planned implant position.
- Revision surgeryReplaces or repairs an earlier hip replacement.
The risks of hip replacement
Risks include infection, blood clots, dislocation, a difference in leg length, fracture, nerve or blood vessel injury, and wear or loosening of the implant. Your own risk depends on your health and should be discussed before you decide.
What to bring
- Any referral letter
- Earlier X-rays, MRI scans and reports
- A list of your medicines
- Your insurance card or company guarantee letter details, if you have one
This page is general information. It cannot diagnose your condition or tell you which treatment suits you. See a registered doctor about your own symptoms.