Chronic hip pain and mobility problems are becoming increasingly common, affecting many people’s daily lives. While hip replacement surgery is a well-known and often successful treatment, many individuals are keen to explore other options for various reasons. In this article, we’ll take a clear, informed look at evidence-based alternatives to hip replacement surgery, helping you understand modern methods that support better hip health.
Rethinking Hip Replacement: Why Look for Alternatives?
Hip replacement surgery can bring tremendous relief, but it’s not without its challenges. Common worries include post-operative pain, possible complications, and a recovery process that can take weeks or months. Generally, hip implants last around 15 to 20 years, but some patients encounter issues such as loosening of the implant, infections, or the need for further surgery years down the line. Although the risk of death related to surgery is quite low, it’s an important factor for many to consider.
These concerns are especially relevant for younger adults, who may outlive their implant and require additional procedures, as well as older patients who may find recovery difficult. Many people say they wish they had fully understood these risks before going ahead with surgery.
As researchers Metcalfe, Perry and Costa (2016) point out, assessing risks isn’t straightforward: “many preoperative and intraoperative risk factors that have been independently associated with postoperative short-term mortality… were not included in the matching model,” highlighting how complex surgical outcomes can be. For these reasons, it’s vital to explore alternatives that might manage symptoms without immediately resorting to surgery.
That said, hip replacement remains a gold standard in orthopaedics — described as “an authoritative text book with a broad and comprehensive scope” (Sancheti, 2011) — but it isn’t the only option.
Non-Surgical Approaches: Lifestyle Changes and Physiotherapy
Often, the first step in managing hip problems involves non-surgical methods. Tailored exercise programmes, physiotherapy, and weight management have proven highly valuable. As Kocjančič and Kocjančič (2024) explain, “primary treatment of osteoarthritis includes informing patients of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including physical activity.” Staying active, with expert guidance, can reduce pain and improve how the hip moves through daily tasks.
Experienced physiotherapists and musculoskeletal specialists play an important role in creating personalised plans that build muscle strength, increase flexibility and protect the joint. At MSK Doctors, for example, Professor Paul Lee — known for his cartilage expertise — helps patients explore these options in a caring, professional setting, aiming to delay or altogether avoid surgery.
Newer Medical and Surgical Alternatives
Medical science continues to offer fresh alternatives beyond traditional surgery. Injections such as corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid can ease inflammation and lubricate the joint temporarily. Innovative biologic therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell treatments show real promise in encouraging cartilage healing and joint repair.
Kocjančič and Kocjančič (2024) also highlight “in selected cases intraarticular infiltrations” and less invasive surgeries such as hip arthroscopy or simple core decompression before considering a total hip replacement. These procedures preserve more of your natural bone and usually involve quicker recovery times.
Eligibility for such treatments must be carefully assessed by specialists. With Professor Paul Lee’s broad experience and the multidisciplinary support at MSK Doctors, patients receive up-to-date, comprehensive advice tailored to their individual situation.
Making the Right Decision for You
Choosing the best treatment depends on many personal factors — age, activity level, severity of symptoms, and personal goals all play a part. It’s also useful to understand details like the typical age limit for hip replacement, what life may look like after surgery, and the early warning signs of possible complications.
A thorough consultation with experienced professionals, such as those at MSK Doctors, is invaluable. Experts like Professor Lee are committed to shared decision-making, ensuring any treatment plan suits your lifestyle and health priorities. This tailored approach helps you make well-informed choices with confidence.
When it comes to managing hip problems, it’s crucial to consider all available options before deciding on hip replacement surgery. From lifestyle and physiotherapy to innovative medical and less invasive surgical treatments, modern approaches can provide effective pain relief and improve mobility.
Most importantly, seek guidance from trusted experts like Professor Paul Lee and the dedicated team at MSK Doctors, who prioritise your health and recovery every step of the way.
For personalised medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
References
- Sancheti, K. H. (2011). Total Hip Replacement Surgery. Indian Journal of Orthopaedics, 45(3), 286-286. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf03545755
- Metcalfe, D., Perry, D. C., & Costa, M. L. (2016). Hip Fracture Surgery vs Elective Total Hip Replacement. JAMA, 315(9), 941. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.17852
- Kocjančič, E., & Kocjančič, B. (2024). From Hip Arthrosis to Hip Replacement Surgery – Total Hip Endoprosthesis. University of Ljubljana Press. https://doi.org/10.55295/psl.2024.i2
Frequently Asked Questions
Many worry about post-operative pain, prolonged recovery, the potential need for further surgery, and complication risks. At MSK Doctors, Professor Paul Lee’s expertise helps patients fully understand these concerns while considering all appropriate alternatives for hip problems.
Professor Paul Lee and MSK Doctors often suggest structured exercise programmes, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes. These evidence-based methods can build strength and flexibility, helping many patients delay or avoid surgery while improving daily hip function and pain levels.
Innovative treatments, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies, are used by MSK Doctors under Professor Paul Lee’s supervision. These approaches aim to repair cartilage, reduce inflammation, and support healing, providing promising alternatives for suitable patients with chronic hip issues.
Yes, Professor Lee provides advanced minimally invasive options at MSK Doctors. Procedures like hip arthroscopy and core decompression may offer relief, shorter recovery, and preserve natural bone, especially for carefully selected cases unsuitable for immediate hip replacement.
MSK Doctors, led by cartilage specialist Professor Paul Lee—a recognised Regional Surgical Ambassador—offers personalised, comprehensive care. Patients benefit from Professor Lee’s wide expertise, evidence-based approach, and commitment to shared decision-making to determine the most suitable treatment.