Hip Arthroplasty - Hip Replacement

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The hip is one of the most commonly replaced joints.  The hip is a ball and socket joint.  It allows us to move our legs and bend and straighten our body.  Osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis, is the main reason for Hip Replacement Surgery.  Other conditions, including trauma, may also cause the need for a hip replacement.
 
Arthritis is a progressive and degenerative disease that causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.  It affects the cartilage in the hip joint.  Cartilage is a very tough, shock absorbing material that covers the ends of many of our bones.  The cartilage forms a smooth surface and allows the bones in our joints to glide easily during motion.  Arthritis causes the cartilage to wear away.  Loss of the protective cartilage can cause painful bone on bone rubbing. 
 
While the symptoms of hip arthritis are tolerable with medications and lifestyle adjustments, there may come a time when surgical treatment is necessary.  Hip Replacement Surgery, also called Hip Arthroplasty, involves removing the damaged portion of the hip and replacing it with artificial implants called prosthetics.  These devices are a replacement for the natural joint and allow pain-free movement.