Many surgeons may tell you not to resume a running program after a total hip replacement. It has however been revealed that you can, but this is dependent on the bone quality and the prosthetic materials used to replace the worn hip joint.
So, what happens when you have your hip replaced?
Hip replacements are divided into two types: traditional total hip replacement (arthroplasty) or hip resurfacing arthroplasty.
During a traditional hip replacement, the femoral heck and head along with the acetabulum are removed and replaced with metal, plastic, or ceramic components
While you can run after this procedure, total hip replacements do run the risk of loosening and stem fracture with high impact sports and are much harder to repair or revise if they wear out quickly
The right level of activity after a hip replacement depends on the person and is best discussed with your doctor. You also might want to consider another type of exercise rather than running, like cycling or swimming, which place less weight and stress on the hips.
Talk with your doctor to get an idea of how soon you can start running again. Take as long as you need to find out how to safely resume your activity. It is important to start slowly, first walking, then power walking, then jogging on a smooth surface such as a treadmill without an incline. If you do feel pain, just slow down or stop. You can always run later, when your body gets used to the motion. The following points are important to remember as you resume your running regimen:
Stretch your legs, arms, back and hips before running.
Warm up thoroughly.
- Cool down and gently stretch your muscles after a run to prevent further injury to your hip.
- Start slowly and work your way up to longer runs.
- Avoid falls or a jarring motion that could damage the replaced hip.
- Any activity or sport that makes kids repeatedly exert a lot of force with their legs and knees.
This article ” Effects of running after a hip replacement – what you should know ” does not provide medical advice and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a doctor for all medical advice.
Sources:
https://www.irunfar.com
https://www.health.harvard.edu/
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/
Meet Dr Peter Smith, a leading Orthopaedic Surgeon operating from the Mediclinic Milnerton in Cape Town, Western Cape. His practice is situated in the heart of this seaside town. Dr Peter Smith not only offers patients the full spectrum of professional orthopaedic treatments, but specialises in total knee replacement, total hip replacement, sports injuries and the latest arthroscopic surgery techniques and computer guided surgery. He gained extensive experience in the latest arthroplasty techniques during his stay of 6 years in Australia where he performed more than a hundred primary and revision hip and knee replacements cases in a year.
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Good Morning, I had a total hip replacement in 2004 and previously ran 10 comrades marathon with 8 medals and would like to do 2 more to get my green number.I do walking all the time without any pain.
Please advise if this is possible.
Thanks
Hello Umesh,
Whether or not you can participate in the Comrades Marathon or any other demanding physical activity after a total hip replacement depends on several factors, including your overall health, the success of your hip replacement surgery, and the advice of your medical team.
Many people with hip replacements are able to resume an active lifestyle and engage in various physical activities, including running and walking, without pain. However, it’s important to consult with your orthopaedic surgeon or healthcare provider before attempting any high-impact activities like running a marathon.
Your surgeon will be able to evaluate your individual situation, including the condition of your hip replacement, your bone density, and any other relevant factors. They may recommend specific guidelines or precautions to ensure your safety and the longevity of your hip replacement.
In some cases, running or participating in high-impact activities may not be advisable due to the potential risks of wear and tear on the artificial joint or potential damage to the surrounding bone. However, walking is generally considered a low-impact exercise and is often recommended for individuals with hip replacements.
To pursue your goal of completing two more Comrades Marathons, it is crucial to consult with your medical team. They can assess your specific circumstances and provide personalised guidance based on your hip’s condition and your overall health. They may also recommend exercises or training programs to prepare your body for the physical demands of the marathon.
Remember, the advice and guidance from medical professionals who are familiar with your individual case should always take precedence over general information. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and tailored recommendations based on your specific needs and circumstances. However, if not possible to get in touch with your original team, I would gladly assess you and give my professional advice if you come and visit at the practice.