When hip pain, stiffness and limited motion begin to interfere with your daily life, hip replacement surgery may be the right solution. At the St. Charles Center for Orthopedics & Neurosurgery, our experienced orthopedic surgeons offer advanced surgical techniques — including anterior hip replacement — to help relieve pain, restore function and get you back to the activities you love.
Understanding hip pain
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, where the femoral head (the ball) fits into the acetabulum (the socket) of the pelvic bone. Articular cartilage cushions the joint and allows smooth movement. When this cartilage wears away — often due to arthritis, injury or infection — bones rub together, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.
When is a hip replacement needed?
Your doctor may recommend a total hip replacement (also called hip arthroplasty) if:
Hip pain or stiffness limits your daily activities
You experience pain even while at rest
Imaging shows joint damage, cartilage loss or bone-on-bone contact
Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications or injections are no longer effective
What to expect from surgery
Hip replacement surgery involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone, then replacing them with implants made of metal, ceramic or durable plastic. These implants are designed to replicate your natural joint and restore smooth, pain-free motion.
Depending on your health and specific procedure, your surgery may be done as an inpatient or outpatient. Many patients return home the same day or after a short hospital stay. Your surgeon will help determine the best option for you.
Anterior Hip Replacement
St. Charles also offers anterior hip replacement — a minimally invasive approach using a small incision at the front of the hip. This technique avoids cutting through major muscles, which can result in:
Less pain after surgery
A faster recovery
Improved joint stability
Easier wound care
Physical therapy usually begins the day after surgery, and most patients return home within one or two days.
Recovery and returning to life
While some people experience pain relief immediately after surgery, recovery varies. Most patients see major improvements within 8 to 12 weeks, though full recovery may take up to a year. You will receive detailed instructions for:
Caring for your incision
Physical therapy exercises
Follow-up appointments
Preparing your home for recovery, including the use of a walker or arranging help with daily activities
Long-term outlook
Hip replacements are highly successful. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, they are among the most effective surgeries in medicine, with most implants lasting 15 years or more.
To protect your new joint and maintain long-term success:
Avoid high-impact sports
Stay active with low-impact exercises
Learn safe techniques for lifting or bending
Maintain a healthy weight
Orthopedic expertise in Central Oregon
From X-rays and therapy to advanced hip replacement surgery, St. Charles offers comprehensive orthopedic care for patients across Central Oregon. Our team stays current with the latest advancements, including outpatient joint replacement and robotic-assisted techniques such as MAKOplasty.
To learn more about joint replacement or schedule a consultation, call 541-382-3344.
