Hip replacement surgery is not necessary for every person. Improvement is often possible with medications, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes first. But when the pain is persistent and normal treatment does not work, then hip replacement should be considered.

Some of the signs below suggest that this may be the right time:

• Persistent pain – when even rest or medicines do not provide relief in pain.
• Difficulty walking or sitting – Everyday tasks such as getting up from a chair, bending over, or walking become difficult.
• Pain increases at night – pain at rest or even in sleep.
• Stiffness and loss of movement – The joint becomes so stiff that it is difficult to rotate the leg.
• X–ray or MRI shows joint damage – loss of space between the bone or loss of cartilage.
• Severe cases of arthritis – such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post–traumatic arthritis.
• Pain after a fracture or injury – When the pain persists even after the hip bone is broken.