A hip replacement is a procedure performed during surgery where one's hip joint is either partially or wholly replaced by a prosthetic implant. The procedure is done to relieve pain and increase flexibility and motion in a person's hip and increases everyday mobility.

This surgical procedure is undertaken when one's hip as been damaged or fractured, either by arthritis, injury, accident, or other conditions, or when a person experiences pain or serious discomfort while moving. If physical therapy or medication fail to stem the pain or increase mobility, then the replacement of the hip will be an option.

There are known to be three underlining causes which lead to either hip pain or loss of movement, or both. The first, which is more likely to occur in older people, is osteoarthritis. This condition, which is more common in people who have a family history of arthritis, happens when small and gradual irregularities in the development of the hip occur. These irregularities cause the articular cartilage in the hip to gradually waste away, which in turn results in the hip bones painfully rubbing against each other. Because of this, one not only experiences pain, but is also limited in their movement.

Another cause is rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease, where the articular cartilage is again damaged, though this time by the inflammation of the synovial membrane. Again, this leads to pain and limited mobility.

A third underlining cause is traumatic arthritis, which can result in the fracturing of the hip. When a hip fracture occurs, it can lead to a disorder where the articular cartilage becomes gradually damaged, resulting in serious pain. This disorder is called osteonecrosis.

While these three conditions can indeed lead to undergoing hip replacement surgery, there can other factors that one should consider prior to having this procedure. These factors include: pain and stiffness which adversely affects your overall mobility and everyday life, constant stiffness and pain which occurs both at day and night, you experience no pain relief from medications or physical therapy or you have adverse side effects from the drugs and medications. If you are experiencing any of these factors and have found no relief from alternative sources then you should consult with your doctor.

Your doctor, in consultation with an orthopedic surgeon, will evaluate you to determine if the surgical procedure is will be the most effective method to curb your daily pain and increase your mobility. If your doctor does suggest undergoing hip replacement, you should ask him about both what to expect during and after the surgery and the potential risks of this procedure. After careful consideration you and your doctor will able to make the right decision.