Get it checked at Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty
We see patients from across the Diamond Valley, including Eltham, Greensborough, Montmorency, Rosanna and Heidelberg. No referral needed, free parking, onsite X-ray when clinically indicated and HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Written by Dr Phillip Mifsud, Chiropractor & Exercise Physiologist and founder of Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty. Based on Dr Phil’s own video and clinical experience.
Watch the video
Hip Replacement
Dr Phil explains this in under two minutes.
How have hip replacements changed?
When Dr Phil started practice around 20 years ago, a hip replacement was a much bigger deal: large incisions down the side of the hip, cut muscles and a long rehabilitation. Today, many surgeons use smaller incisions and muscle-sparing approaches, and patients are commonly up and walking the day after surgery. Hip and knee replacements have become very reliable operations, so there is no need to be afraid of them.
Should I hold off as long as possible?
Generally, yes. Fight it for as long as you reasonably can:
- Stay active and keep the hip moving
- Keep your weight down to reduce load on the joint
- Get regular treatment and rehab to keep the muscles around the hip strong
What are the signs it is time?
The turning point is when the hip is limiting your lifestyle. Dr Phil’s practical markers:
- You can no longer put your socks or shoes on in the morning
- You cannot lift your leg to get into the car or over the edge of the bath
- You cannot walk the dog or do the walking you enjoy
- Pain is waking you at night or no longer responds to treatment
At that point, see your GP about a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon and get on the list. Keep up your treatment while you wait. A hip replacement can give you your life back.
Why does rehab before and after surgery matter?
The stronger and more mobile you are going into surgery (often called prehab), the easier recovery tends to be. After surgery, a structured rehab program rebuilds strength and confidence and gets you back to normal activities as quickly as possible.
Who at Bodyline Health can help with hip replacement?
Because Bodyline Health has several disciplines under one roof at 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty, your care can be shared between practitioners who talk to each other.
- Dr Phillip Mifsud (Chiropractor and Exercise Physiologist): keeping the hip and lower back moving and strong before surgery.
- Mary Fleming (Physiotherapist): prehab and post-operative rehabilitation.
- Keryn Arrowsmith (Myotherapist): easing tight muscles around the hip and lower back.
- Ceyda Hart and Lara Kolar (Podiatrists): footwear and gait advice.
When to seek urgent medical help
After a hip replacement, contact your surgeon or go to hospital urgently if you notice increasing redness, heat or discharge from the wound, fever, calf pain or swelling, or sudden shortness of breath (call 000).
Further reading on hip replacement: Hip replacement (Healthdirect Australia).
Common questions
How do I know if I need a hip replacement?
When hip pain and stiffness stop you doing everyday things, such as putting your socks on, getting into the car or walking, and treatment is no longer controlling it, talk to your GP about an orthopaedic referral.
Should I delay a hip replacement?
Most people are advised to stay active and manage the hip conservatively for as long as their quality of life allows, then have surgery when it is significantly limiting them.
How long does it take to walk after a hip replacement?
Many patients are up and walking with assistance the day after surgery with modern techniques.
Does exercise before surgery help?
Yes. Being stronger and more mobile going into surgery usually makes recovery easier.
Can a chiropractor help with hip arthritis?
Yes. Treatment and exercise can help keep the hip and lower back moving and the surrounding muscles strong, which may delay the need for surgery.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice. If you are unsure, see your GP or book an assessment.
