The Hip is a ball and socket joint, the ball is situated on the long thigh bone, femur, the socket on the pelvis, mid groin denotes its position. The nature of the joint allows forwards, backwards, sideways and internal and external rotational movement. The ball and socket are covered with a smooth articular cartilage, which allows for movement of the joint with little friction. This cartilage can be damaged by injury, normal wear and tear or inflammatory conditions. 

Once the articular cartilage is damaged or worn away it does not regenerate, this leads to what we commonly call arthritis, which can develop slowly or quite rapidly, influencing factors may be injury, wear and rear or a familial history. 

As the articular cartilage wears the joint becomes stiff, often the initial sign followed by pain on activity with reduced joint movement, a developing limp and finally pain at rest. 

Each individual will choose when they seek medical help for their symptoms, usually determined by a percentage inability to partake in activities they enjoy. This may be the time you discuss with your GP the options available to you and following X-rays are offered a Total Hip Replacement (THR) by an orthopaedic surgeon.

THR is a very successful operation, pioneered in the UK by John Charnley in the 1950’s and today some 50,000 THR are performed yearly.

The procedure is performed to relieve pain and stiffness, restore range of movement and allowing a return to activity.