Understanding the Different Types of Hip Replacements: A Guide by Ben Proctor

By Ben, Physiotherapist at Physio@Home

As a physiotherapist with Physio@Home, I’ve walked alongside countless patients on their journey after hip replacement surgery. It’s a transformative procedure—one that can banish pain, restore movement, and hand you back the keys to a fuller life. Over 100,000 hip replacements are performed annually in the UK (per NHS data), and each one is a story of resilience. But not all hip replacements are the same. Understanding the options can empower you—or someone you love—to make informed choices about surgery and recovery. Let’s explore the types of hip replacements, what sets them apart, and how they shape your path forward.

Total Hip Replacement (THR)

What it is: Known as total hip arthroplasty, this is the gold standard—replacing both the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) with artificial parts. It’s the most common type, accounting for 90% of hip surgeries in the UK.Materials:

• Metal-on-Polyethylene: A durable metal ball paired with a plastic socket liner—time-tested and widely used

• Ceramic-on-Ceramic: Both parts ceramic, offering a smooth glide and less wear.

• Metal-on-Metal: Once popular, now rare due to risks of metal debris causing tissue irritation.

• Ceramic-on-Polyethylene: A ceramic ball with a plastic liner—combining strength and longevity.

  
  

  Why it matters: Perfect for severe osteoarthritis (affecting 1 in 5 over-65s, per Versus Arthritis) or major joint damage. These implants often last 15-20 years, with 85% still going strong at the 20-year mark, per the National Joint Registry.

  
  

  For you: Expect a life where stairs aren’t a battle and mornings don’t start with a groan. Recovery takes dedication—6-12 weeks with physio—but I’ve seen patients dancing again by month three.

  
  

Partial Hip Replacement (PHR)

What it is: Called hemiarthroplasty, this replaces just the femoral head, leaving your natural socket intact. It’s often a lifeline for hip fractures, which strike 75,000 older adults yearly in the UK, per NICE.Who it’s for: Typically seniors over 70 with a broken hip—not younger folks, as the natural socket can wear out faster under active use.Why it matters: It’s less invasive, with surgery often under an hour and recovery shaving weeks off THR timelines.For you: Simpler doesn’t mean lesser—I’ve helped patients walk unaided within days. It’s a gentler reset for fragile bones, though long-term activity might need a rethink.

Hip Resurfacing

What it is: A bone-sparing option for younger, active patients. Instead of chopping off the femoral head, we reshape it and cap it with metal, lining the socket similarly.Why it matters: Preserves more of your natural bone—crucial since 10% of hip patients need revisions later, per the British Orthopaedic Association. It’s built for bigger ranges of motion, like cycling or yoga.Considerations: Metal-on-metal wear raised red flags (think inflammation risks), so it’s less common now—down to 1% of procedures. Weak bones? It’s not your match.For you: If you’re 50 and still chasing grandkids, this could keep you in the game. Recovery’s intense—think 3-6 months—but worth it for the right fit.

Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

What it is: Not a type, but a technique—smaller cuts (6-10 cm vs. 20 cm) to spare muscles. It’s used for THR or PHR, depending on your needs.Why it matters: Less trauma means less pain and faster healing—patients often walk with crutches in 1-2 weeks versus 4-6. Scars shrink too, boosting confidence.For you: I’ve seen patients beam as they ditch the walker early. It’s not for everyone—complex cases might need the classic approach—but it’s a game-changer when it fits.

Custom Hip Implants

What it is: High-tech 3D-printed implants tailored to your unique bones via CT scans. Think bespoke hips for tricky cases.Who it’s for: Those with severe bone loss, deformities, or multiple past surgeries—about 5% of hip patients, per clinical studies.Why it matters: Precision fit means better stability and fewer complications—crucial when standard implants won’t do.For you: It’s rare and costly, but for the right person, it’s like a custom suit—perfectly yours. Recovery mirrors THR, with extra physio to adapt.

Choosing the Right Option

Your perfect hip isn’t one-size-fits-all. It hinges on:

• Age/Activity: Younger? Resurfacing might shine. Older with arthritis? THR’s your rock.

• Joint Damage: Mild wear might wait; severe pain screams for action.

• Bone Health: Osteoporosis (affecting 3 million UK adults, per Versus Arthritis) could steer you to PHR or custom options.

  
  

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A Warm Hand from Physio@Home

At Physio@Home, we know hip surgery’s a big leap—physically and emotionally. That’s why we bring care to you, whether at home or in a care home. I’ve watched patients go from wincing to walking, reclaiming joys like gardening or tea with friends.

Let’s Get You Moving

Hip replacement isn’t the end—it’s a new start. If you’re curious about our home-based services or ready to book, reach out to Physio@Home. Together, we’ll turn stiff steps into strides, getting you back to the life you love—one pain-free day at a time.

More Info:

Osteoarthritis Information Booklet - by Versus Arthritis