Overview
Total hip replacement replaces the damaged ball-and-socket joint with prosthetic components to relieve pain and improve function, most commonly for advanced arthritis or joint damage.

Indications
Severe hip pain that limits daily activities, significant stiffness, and failure of conservative treatments such as medications, activity modification, and physical therapy.

Procedure overview
The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone, prepares the socket and femoral canal, and implants a new socket liner and femoral stem with a ball. Approaches vary (posterior, lateral, anterior) with different precautions.

Recovery
Most patients begin walking with assistance the same day or next day. Physical therapy focuses on mobility and strength. Low‑impact activities are encouraged; high‑impact activities are generally discouraged. Full recovery often takes several months.

Risks and complications
Infection, blood clots, dislocation, leg length difference, fracture, nerve injury, and implant loosening over time.

Alternatives
Medications, injections, assistive devices, and activity modification; joint-preserving procedures in select cases.