Hip replacement is one of the most successful orthopedic surgeries for restoring mobility and relieving pain. Still, myths persist that keep patients from getting the care they need. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics’ Total Joint Clinic we see those questions every day—here’s a deeper, more practical look at common misconceptions and the facts that matter for your decision.

Myth: Hip replacement is only for older people

Fact: Age alone is not the deciding factor. The decision to replace a hip depends on pain, function, and quality-of-life impact. Younger, active patients with severe disease and older patients who want to remain independent both may be appropriate candidates. We evaluate life expectancy, activity goals, and comorbidities to recommend the best timing.

Myth: Surgery means a long, debilitating recovery

Fact: Modern techniques and rehabilitation protocols have shortened recovery times significantly. Patients commonly walk with assistance within hours to a day, progress through staged therapy, and return to many activities within weeks to months. Prehabilitation (strengthening and education before surgery) and our coordinated post-op program in the Total Joint Clinic help speed recovery and reduce complications.

Myth: After a hip replacement you can’t be active anymore

Fact: Most patients resume low- and moderate-impact activities—including walking, cycling, swimming, and golf. High-impact sports carry higher wear risk and are discussed on a case-by-case basis. The goal is to restore function so you can enjoy a healthy, active life with appropriate guidance.

Myth: All hip replacements are the same

Fact: Implant type, surgical approach (posterior, lateral, direct anterior), and surgeon experience influence outcomes. For example, muscle-sparing approaches aim to minimize soft-tissue damage and can lead to less pain and faster early recovery. The Total Joint Clinic team, including our newest doctor, Dr. Kevin Lindsay-Rivera, customizes the plan—selecting implants and techniques that match your anatomy and lifestyle.

Myth: Implants don’t last—so why bother?

Fact: Implant design and materials have improved dramatically; many implants provide decades of reliable function. While revision surgeries are sometimes necessary, most patients enjoy many years of pain-free activity. We follow patients long-term to monitor implant health and intervene early if problems emerge.

Myth: Hip replacement fixes everything—no more follow-up needed

Fact: Regular follow-up is important. Routine checks help detect wear, loosening, or infection early—when treatment is simpler. The Total Joint Clinic emphasizes lifelong surveillance and clear communication about symptoms that should prompt immediate review.

What we recommend for someone considering hip replacement

1. Complete evaluation: Pain history, functional assessment, imaging, and discussion of goals.
2. Conservative measures first: Physical therapy, weight management, activity modification, and injections when appropriate.
3. Informed decision: If pain and disability persist, we discuss surgical options, expected outcomes, risks, and recovery timelines tailored to your situation.
4. Prehab and post-op coordination: Our Total Joint Clinic provides education, strength work before surgery, care coordination, and a clear rehab roadmap to optimize outcomes.

Realistic expectations and shared decision-making

A hip replacement is a partnership—between you and your surgical team. We prioritize a realistic, goal-oriented plan: what activities you want to return to, how fast you hope to recover, and the tradeoffs you’re willing to accept. Our role is to provide clear, evidence-based guidance so you can choose with confidence.