Introduction
For many active people, the idea of getting back to running after hip replacement surgery is both exciting and daunting. Hip replacement surgery can truly restore mobility and greatly improve your quality of life, but returning safely to higher-impact activities like running calls for a cautious and personalised approach.
In this article, we’ll explore evidence-based advice, informed by the expertise of Professor Paul Lee, a leading cartilage specialist and orthopaedic surgeon, and the experienced team at MSK Doctors. We will also reference the latest research on running’s impact on hip health, the immune response after surgery, and blood clot risks, to help you confidently and safely resume your running journey.
Understanding Hip Replacement Recovery: What to Expect
Recovery after hip replacement surgery usually happens in stages. At first, the focus is on regaining basic movement through walking and gentle exercises. Over time, you’ll gradually build up to more demanding activities.
It’s important to know that some movements should be avoided permanently to protect your new hip. High-impact exercises and twisting motions are often on the “no-go” list. Understanding these restrictions — like what exercises you should avoid and what you can never do after hip replacement — helps protect your recovery and extends the life of your implant.
Another key factor is the impact surgery has on your immune system. Research shows that immunoglobulins — the proteins your body uses to fight infection — can drop significantly after surgery, especially if you require blood transfusions from donors. This reduction in immune function means that proper post-operative care is essential to support your body’s healing.
Blood clotting is another important consideration. After surgery, certain natural blood-thinning substances in your body, such as antithrombin III, fall temporarily, which can increase the risk of clots. However, this “hypercoagulable” state tends to be short-lived, often normalising within 24 hours. Still, because the risk of blood clots remains for several weeks after surgery, careful management and prevention are crucial during recovery.
Professor Paul Lee highlights the importance of following your healthcare team’s instructions closely and listening to your body as you heal. The team at MSK Doctors are committed to providing comprehensive support at every stage to ensure your recovery is both safe and effective.
Safe Progression: When and How to Reintroduce Running
Knowing when to start running again after hip replacement depends on your individual healing, age, type of hip implant, and physical fitness.
While many can begin brisk walking just a couple of weeks after surgery, running usually needs to wait longer—often several months. Common milestones include light exercises after two weeks, more active rehab around eight weeks, and cautiously returning to running after about a year. These timelines can vary, so it’s important to follow personalised advice.
Encouragingly, research shows that running can actually lower your risk of developing osteoarthritis and needing a hip replacement in the first place—largely because runners tend to have a healthier body weight. A large study found that “running significantly reduced [hip replacement and osteoarthritis] risk, due in part to running’s association with lower BMI.” This finding supports a gradual return to running for many patients, when done carefully.
A good approach is to start by walking briskly, add short jogging intervals, and pay close attention to any discomfort or unusual symptoms. Always consult your orthopaedic surgeon before starting to run again; Professor Paul Lee’s expertise means your rehab plan will be tailored to your personal situation and progress.
Best Practices for Life-Long Hip Health: Exercise, Technique, and Everyday Habits
Looking after your hip in the long term means focusing on exercises and habits that promote strength and flexibility without overloading the joint.
Low-impact exercises—think swimming, cycling, or gentle strength training—are excellent choices for maintaining hip health. Many patients wonder about weight lifting: when can I lift heavy objects after hip replacement? The answer is to introduce weights gradually and with professional guidance to avoid injury.
Everyday movements also matter. Simple tips—like how to turn over in bed safely, the best sleeping position after hip replacement (side sleeping is often recommended), when it’s safe to wear jeans again, and how to sit comfortably—all help make daily life easier and protect your new hip.
Interestingly, the same study that praised running also noted that “other (non-running) exercises increased the risk of osteoarthritis by 2.4% and hip replacement by 5.0% per MET-hour/day, independent of BMI.” This emphasises the importance of choosing your activities wisely to support long-term joint health.
MSK Doctors provide a supportive environment focused on holistic rehabilitation, giving you the confidence to manage your hip health throughout recovery and beyond.
Staying Active Safely: Psychological Motivation and Professional Support
Recovering physically is only part of the journey. Staying motivated and mentally engaged plays a crucial role in maintaining an active lifestyle safely after hip replacement.
Setting realistic, personal goals and celebrating your small wins—without comparing yourself to others—helps keep you motivated over the long haul.
Professional support is invaluable, too. Professor Paul Lee and the MSK Doctors team offer tailored follow-up and guidance to help you balance safety, enjoyment, and quality of life in your activities.
Conclusion and Disclaimer
For many, returning to running after hip replacement is an achievable goal. It requires cautious, personalised progression, guided by evidence-based exercises and expert supervision. Always seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals to ensure your rehabilitation plan suits your unique circumstances.
For individual medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
References
McNally, M., Kyle, A., Macdonald, W. R. G., Mayne, E., & Mollan, R. A. B. (1996). Hypercoagulability after Total Hip Replacement. HIP International, 6(1), 1-6. https://doi.org/10.1177/112070009600600101
Shtarbova, M., & Klein, S. (1995). Assessment of immunoglobulins after hip replacement. International Orthopaedics, 19(1), . https://doi.org/10.1007/bf00184915
Williams, P. T. (2013). Effects of running and walking on osteoarthritis and hip replacement risk. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 45(7), 1292-1297. https://doi.org/10.1249/mss.0b013e3182885f26
Frequently Asked Questions
Return to running varies: most begin with walking, progress to brisk walking and gentle rehab, then cautiously resume running after about a year. Prof Paul Lee and the MSK Doctors team provide personalised guidance tailored to your recovery pace.
Certain high-impact activities and twisting movements are usually to be avoided permanently to protect your new hip. MSK Doctors, led by cartilage expert Prof Paul Lee, emphasise safe alternatives and appropriate exercises to prolong implant life and support optimal recovery.
Professor Paul Lee is a leading cartilage specialist, Royal College of Surgeons Advisor and Regional Surgical Ambassador. His expertise, alongside the dedicated MSK Doctors team, ensures recovery programmes are both evidence-based and highly personalised for each patient’s needs.
Surgery can temporarily reduce immune function and increase blood clot risks. Prof Paul Lee and MSK Doctors prioritise vigilant post-operative care, helping you avoid complications and follow a structured rehabilitation path designed to support safe and effective recovery.
MSK Doctors delivers ongoing, holistic rehabilitation support throughout your recovery. Their comprehensive approach—guided by Professor Paul Lee’s specialist knowledge—helps you rebuild strength, maintain motivation, and protect hip health for the long term.