The average age for a female hip replacement is often cited around the mid-60s, slightly older than men, with many women receiving them between 60 and 80, though younger patients (40s, 50s) are increasingly common due to better tech and a desire to stay active, while older patients (70s, 80s) are still very common, with the peak often in the 75-79 age range in some regions like England. Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis are key factors, more prevalent in women, contributing to these trends.
Many of the conditions that trigger the need for a hip replacement are progressive. This means they continue to worsen as you get older. For this reason, hip replacements are most common among people over 60.
The average mean National Health Service waiting time for hip replacement surgery is 27.4 weeks. The Government is working to reduce the number of patients awaiting treatment across the country.
People with the following conditions may not be good candidates for a hip replacement: Hip infection or sepsis. Morbid obesity. Remote, ongoing infection.
Knees and Hips: A troubleshooting guide to knee and hip pain
This is why most people are encouraged to delay total hip replacement until at least their 60s, if possible. Given the average life span for Americans, many of the older adults who get a new hip in their 60s or 70s may never need to have it replaced.
Level 4 – The surgical stage. At this stage you are no longer able to tolerate or manage your osteoarthritis symptoms and may be a suitable candidate for surgery. At this stage you are no longer able to tolerate or manage your symptoms.
Patients with moderate hip arthritis can enjoy the benefits of a low-impact exercises like walking, some of which are: Keeping joints lubricated. If the hip joint is lubricated, it eases pain and makes it easier for the hip to move. Improve flexibility and range of motion.
In a hip resurfacing procedure, a person's natural femoral head is retained. It may be appropriate for you to have hip resurfacing if you are an active person under the age of 60. Hip surface replacement has advantages and disadvantages, depending on each individual patient.
Medical Complications
Hip replacement can temporarily worsen any existing medical condition. The most frequent medical complication after hip replacement is blood clots. We take steps to prevent blood clots during and after hospitalization. If they do occur, they require treatment.
Most hip replacement surgery is successful and doesn't result in disability that lasts at least 12 months. You have to prove that your hip replacement and your inability to walk properly interfere with your daily activities and ability to work.
Most often, you will stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days after having hip or knee joint replacement surgery. During that time, you will recover from your anesthesia and the surgery. Under some circumstances, a person may go home the same day as the surgery.
“For many patients, the decision comes down to time, access and reassurance. Private care offers faster treatment and more personal continuity. It's about giving people more control over when, where and how they recover.”
How can I speed up my NHS referral?
The most common reason you might have a hip replacement is because of problems caused by osteoarthritis.
By scheduling your hip replacement surgery in late summer/early fall, you'll be able to make the most of the holiday season. Travel with ease, welcome extended family, decorate your home, or enjoy the changing leaves on a long walk—all without chronic hip pain.
While hip replacement surgery is designed to address joint pain caused by osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions, it may also alleviate some sciatica symptoms in certain cases.
Recovery after a hip replacement
Many people go home the day of or the day after surgery and may use a walker or crutches for about two weeks.
Hip replacement might be an option if hip pain interferes with daily activities and nonsurgical treatments haven't helped or are no longer effective. Arthritis damage is the most common reason to need hip replacement.
Preventing and treating blood clots after hip and knee replacement surgery is an important part of your recovery. Joint replacement patients are at highest risk for developing a DVT two to 10 days after surgery, and remain at risk for approximately three months.
Minimally Invasive Total Hip Replacement Procedure
In a single incision minimally invasive approach, your surgeon makes a 3-6-inch incision over the side of your hip to expose the hip joint. The muscles are minimally dissected to reach the joint. The femur is dislocated from the acetabulum.
The 2025 revision includes new research and refined guidance on: Manual therapy techniques to improve mobility and reduce pain. Individualized strengthening, flexibility, and endurance programs. The use of dry needling for short-term symptom relief.
People with trauma, stress or mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression often suffer physical symptoms as well. In all of this, there may be one common link: the hips. Neuroscience indicates that the hips are a potential storage vessel for emotions.
In general, people with hip pain experience worse symptoms when climbing stairs. People in occupations which include climbing stairs may seek treatment earlier than other workers because of this pain.
Hot and cold therapy is a tried-and-true way to relieve hip pain. Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain, particularly in the first 48 hours after an injury. Cold therapy is most effective for acute pain and sudden swelling.