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Living with long-term hip pain is more than just a physical problem. It slowly creeps into every part of your life. What begins as mild discomfort while walking can turn into sleepless nights, cancelled plans, and a growing dependence on others for even the simplest tasks. Many people quietly put up with this pain, hoping it will improve on its own. Unfortunately, when hip joint damage becomes severe, ignoring the signs can do more harm than good.
At Manipal Hospitals Pune, our orthopaedic specialists often meet patients who say, “I wish I had come earlier.” Understanding when hip pain crosses the line from manageable to treatable with surgery can make all the difference. This guide explains when a total hip replacement may be needed, the warning signs you should not ignore, and how the procedure can help you regain an active, pain-free life.
Synopsis
What Is a Total Hip Replacement?
A total hip replacement (THR) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged hip joint is replaced with artificial components called a prosthesis. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. When the cartilage that cushions this joint wears away, movement becomes painful and stiff.
During the surgery:
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The damaged femoral head (ball) is removed and replaced with a metal stem and a ceramic or metal ball.
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The damaged socket is reshaped and fitted with a strong metal shell and liner.
The new joint is designed to move smoothly, closely mimicking the function of a natural hip. Today, total hip replacement is considered one of the most successful orthopaedic surgeries, with the majority of patients experiencing dramatic pain relief and improved mobility.
Common Causes of Severe Hip Joint Damage
Several medical conditions can damage the hip joint to a point where surgery becomes necessary:
Osteoarthritis - The most common cause of osteoarthritis is due to the gradual wear and tear of cartilage over time. It is often age-related, but can also affect younger individuals.
Rheumatoid Arthritis - An autoimmune condition where chronic inflammation damages the joint lining, leading to cartilage and bone destruction.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis - Hip fractures or serious injuries can damage cartilage, causing arthritis years after the initial trauma.
Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis) - This occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head is reduced, causing the bone to weaken and collapse.
5 Clear Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Deciding to undergo surgery is a big step, and it’s usually considered only after non-surgical treatments fail. However, these five signs strongly indicate that it may be time to speak to an orthopaedic specialist in kharadi.
1. Persistent Hip Pain That Doesn’t Go Away
Occasional pain after activity is normal. But persistent hip pain is not.
You should take notice if:
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Pain keeps you awake at night
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Pain continues even while resting
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Pain radiates to the groin, thigh, or buttock
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Pain medications no longer provide relief
Many patients at Manipal Hospitals Pune describe this pain as a constant companion one that affects mood, sleep, and patience. When pain becomes continuous, it often means the joint damage has progressed significantly.
2. Difficulty with Everyday Activities
One of the strongest indicators for total hip replacement is when pain starts interfering with daily life.
You may notice:
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Difficulty walking even short distances
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Trouble standing up from a chair or bed
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Pain while climbing stairs
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Needing support such as a cane or walker
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Difficulty wearing shoes or socks
When independence begins to slip away, it’s not just inconvenient, it affects confidence and quality of life.
3. Increasing Stiffness and Loss of Movement
Hip stiffness can be just as disabling as pain. As joint damage worsens, movements become restricted.
Warning signs include:
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Difficulty bending or rotating the hip
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Reduced ability to lift the leg
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A noticeable limp while walking
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Feeling “locked” or stuck when moving
This stiffness often causes people to change the way they walk, which can lead to back pain, knee problems, and muscle strain over time.
4. Conservative Treatments Are No Longer Helping
Before recommending surgery, doctors always try non-surgical treatments such as:
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Anti-inflammatory medications
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Physiotherapy
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Lifestyle changes and weight management
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Walking aids
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Joint injections
If you’ve tried these consistently for months with little or no improvement, surgery may be the next logical step. Continuing ineffective treatments can delay recovery and prolong unnecessary pain.
5. Declining Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Chronic pain affects more than the body. It can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even depression.
Many patients say:
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They avoid social outings
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They stop hobbies they once loved
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They feel irritable or emotionally drained
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They fear becoming dependent on family members
At Manipal Hospitals Kharadi, we believe restoring mobility also restores confidence, independence, and joy.
A Real-Life Perspective
One of our patients, a 62-year-old retired teacher, struggled with hip pain for nearly five years. She gradually stopped morning walks, avoided stairs, and relied heavily on painkillers. After undergoing total hip replacement, she was walking independently within weeks. Her words during follow-up said it best:
“I didn’t realise how much life I had put on hold until I got it back.”
The Manipal Hospitals Kharadi Advantage
At Manipal Hospitals Kharadi, our orthopaedic team uses advanced surgical techniques, high-quality implants, and a patient-centred approach to ensure safe and long-lasting outcomes. From diagnosis and surgery to rehabilitation and follow-up, patients are supported at every stage.
Modern hip implants are extremely durable, with studies showing that over 90% continue to function well even after 20 years.
Do’s and Don’ts for Managing Hip Pain
Do
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Stay active with low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Use walking aids when needed
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Seek early specialist advice
Don’t
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Ignore persistent pain
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Push through severe discomfort
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Engage in high-impact activities
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Delay treatment until mobility is severely limited
Take the First Step Towards a Pain-Free Life
If hip pain is limiting your movement, sleep, or independence, it may be time to consider your options. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes. Book a consultation with the expert orthopaedic team at Manipal Hospitals Kharadi and take the first step toward walking freely again.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified orthopaedic specialist for personalised care.
FAQ's
Most patients start walking within a day or two. Daily activities usually resume in 3–6 weeks, with full recovery taking a few months.
With modern implants and proper care, hip replacements often last 20–25 years or more.
No. Surgery depends on health, pain severity, and mobility—not age.
Risks are low but may include infection, blood clots, or joint dislocation. These are carefully managed by experienced surgical teams.
Yes. Most patients return to walking, swimming, cycling, and other low-impact activities comfortably.
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