Questions You May Have Regarding Hip Surgery

Our patients ask many questions in anticipation of hip surgery. We have compiled some of the most frequent questions and answers to help you get started.

• What options do I have for my hip pain?
• When should I see a specialist for my hip pain?
• Who is a candidate for hip replacement?
• Is there an age limit to hip replacement surgery?
• What are the risks of hip surgery and recovery?
• What should I expect from hip replacement surgery?

Q:  What options do I have for my hip pain?
A: You may want to try pain medications, gentle exercises, stretching or rest to manage the pain. Check with your doctor if your pain is not improving or if it is interfering with your daily life. Below are some methods for managing pain that include non-surgical and surgical treatments.

Non-surgical treatment:

• Topical pain medications such as heat or cold therapy creams
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, glucosamine)
• Joint injections
• Physical therapy
• Cane crutch, walker or braces
• Low-impact exercise program such as water aerobics

Surgical treatment:

• Joint preservation techniques such as hip reconstruction
• Hip replacement surgery that ranges from partial to total hip replacement.
• Less invasive hip replacement
• Hip resurfacing

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Q:  When should I see a specialist for my hip pain?
A: You should see a specialist if you:

• Have had a fall or accident and wonder if your hip is injured
• Feel pain in your hip joint after a change in the weather
• Experience pain, swelling or stiffness in your groin after activity
• Have pain in your groin, hips or buttocks
• Experience little relief from pain medications
• Experience hip pain that keeps you awake at night

You should consider contacting an orthopaedic surgeon if you:

• Feel your leg won't support you and cannot bear weight
• Have trouble standing from a seated position or trouble walking up or down stairs
• Have difficulty walking due to pain
• Have severe pain in the groin or hip area that prevents you from using the joint
• Have difficulty putting on shoes and socks

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Q:  Who is a candidate for hip replacement?
A:  Your surgeon will determine if you meet the requirements for this procedure.

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Q:  Is there an age limit to hip replacement surgery?
A:  There is no age limit as long as the patient is in good health. Your doctor can help you determine if this surgery is right for you.

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Q:  What are the risks of hip surgery and recovery?
A: Hip surgeries are generally safe, but as with all surgical procedures, there is some risk associated with them. Your doctor will discuss risks associated with the type of surgery you need.

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Q:  What should I expect from hip replacement surgery?
A:  You should expect a reduction in pain and an increased range of motion in your new joint. Movements such as climbing stairs, getting in and out of a car and walking without pain should be easier. Overall, you should expect an improvement in the quality of your life.

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Are you considering hip surgery?
Learn what to expect before, during and after treatment. The more you know, the better prepared you will be to make important decisions and face the challenges associated with hip procedures. Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor:

• What is minimally invasive hip replacement? Am I a candidate for this type of procedure?
• How many hip replacements have you performed?
• What type of pain management do you use?
• If non-hip related complications arise during surgery, is your facility prepared to handle them?
• What type of rehabilitation therapies do you offer?

Locations and Contacts
A full spectrum of treatment for hips is available in Maywood at:

Loyola Outpatient Center

Services also are offered at the following Loyola sites:

Loyola Center for Health at Hickory Hills
Oakbrook Terrace Medical Center


If you would like to make an appointment or need assistance to find an appropriate physician, please call us at (888) LUHS-888.