The hip is the largest synovial joint in the body. Like the shoulder, it is a ‘ball and socket’ joint, but it has more muscles supporting it to deal with the stress of carrying the body. The number one reason for a joint replacement is pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. Other reasons include hip fractures and bone dysplasias. Hip surgery is very successful, with over 100,000 being performed in the UK every year with a less than 5% failure rate. Signs that surgical opinion is required include groin and knee pain, particularly at night as well as hip pain and decreased mobillty. It is worth emphasising that the new hip’s success can be improved by exercising before and after surgery. One of the important things to focus on post-surgery is to train stability (as well as mobility) using isometric work. Remember, there is plenty of time to regain your range of motion, so learn to walk again before you run!
