Hip Replacement Surgery

Treatment options for chronic hip pain in San Diego

A diverse group of friends hiking, illustrating the quality of life after a hip replacement.

Treatment options for chronic hip pain in San Diego

A growing number of people with severe arthritis pain in their hips are choosing to have hip replacement surgery. New techniques and implants have made hip surgery quicker and easier, so you can get back to living your life.


Candidates for total hip replacement have usually tried other treatments, such as medications, physical therapy or injections. Their X-rays often show that the cartilage in their hip has worn away, making the bones in the joint rub together. This causes pain and more bone damage.


Scripps orthopedic surgeons provide hip replacements and other hip procedures across the San Diego region for local and out-of-town patients.

Causes of chronic hip pain

Chronic hip pain is often caused by:


  • Arthritis — including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis — often causes swelling and inflammation of the hip joint that becomes worse over time.
  • Hip fractures — can be due to sports, falls, trauma or repetitive activities that put stress on the hips.
  • Hip impingement — an abnormal wearing of the hip ball-and-socket that causes a bony “bump” to form along the end of the hip, resulting in friction that can damage the joint and limit activity.


The most common reason for a hip replacement is osteoarthritis, this condition can wear away the cartilage in the hip joint over time.

Types of hip replacement surgery

Types of hip replacement surgery

Several types of hip surgery, including total hip replacement surgery, can help relieve chronic hip pain. Some patients may be able to have minimally invasive hip surgery.

How does hip replacement work?

A common procedure in the US, hip replacement surgery is performed when a person has severe hip pain or stiffness during everyday activities and even at rest. During the hip surgery, an orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged parts of the upper end of the thigh bone (femur) and hip socket and replaces them with an artificial implant called a prosthesis. Like your natural hip joint, the replacement implant consists of a ball and a socket. The implant is constructed of either metal or ceramic to remain strong and durable for many years.

What is total hip replacement surgery?

Also called hip arthroplasty, total hip replacement surgery involves replacing the hip socket and end of the thigh bone (femur) with artificial implants. The type of implant is based on a patient’s hip damage, age, weight, activity level and other lifestyle factors. 


There are three methods of hip replacement surgery: 


  • Anterior hip replacement — Anterior means the incision is made in front of the hip joint. This surgery may provide faster recovery for appropriate patients because it’s performed without making incisions in the major leg muscles. 
  • Posterior hip replacement — Posterior means the incision is made from the back of the hip.
  • Lateral hip replacement — Lateral hip surgery is performed through an incision on the side of the hip. 

What is partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty)?

Partial hip replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, replaces the ball of the damaged hip joint, but the socket is not replaced. Hip fractures and injuries are the primary reasons for partial hip replacement. Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease are not typically treated with a partial replacement.

What is hip resurfacing?

A type of joint reconstruction procedure, hip resurfacing removes less bone. The upper end of the thigh bone (femur) is left in place but is trimmed and covered with a smooth metal piece. Then the damaged bone and cartilage in the socket is removed and replaced with a metal shell, similar to total hip replacement.

What is hip arthroscopy?

For hip pain caused by impingement, hip arthroscopy may be an option. This minimally invasive surgery uses a tiny camera and tools inserted through several small incisions around the thigh to correct the bony abnormality that is causing the impingement. Damaged soft tissues around the joint also may be repaired or reconstructed. Arthroscopy does not usually require an overnight hospital stay.

What is robotic surgery for hip replacement?

During minimally invasive robot-assisted hip replacement surgery, the surgeon uses a robotic surgical system. While viewing 3D images of the surgical area, the surgeon performs the hip replacement using tiny tools held by robotic arms, which can offer greater precision and dexterity. The surgeon controls all of the robot’s movements from a computer console nearby.


Scripps offers robot-assisted hip replacement surgery at Scripps Mercy Hospital and Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla.

What to expect from hip replacement

Hip replacement surgery can relieve hip pain and help you enjoy everyday activities again. Modern surgical techniques and improved materials have made the procedure easier and more successful, with a faster and easier recovery.

When should you have hip replacement surgery?

Whether or not hip replacement surgery is right for you for depends on several factors, including the cause and severity of your pain, your overall health, your age and your lifestyle. 


If nonsurgical treatments — including over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, weight loss, doctor-administered hip injections and physical therapy — have not helped, your doctor may recommend a hip replacement.

How should you prepare for hip replacement surgery?

Once you and your physician have decided that hip replacement is right for you, we’ll make sure you understand exactly what to expect, and how to prepare for your surgery and recovery for the best possible results. Scripps offers total joint replacement classes to educate patients about the entire process from start to finish.

What is the hip replacement recovery time?

Most patients will be in surgery from one to three hours. You can expect to stay in the hospital for one to two days, but you will likely start moving and walking as soon as the first day after surgery. After you leave the hospital, you may have physical therapy in an outpatient center, at home or at a skilled nursing facility. Full recovery can be anywhere from a few months to six months or longer.

How long do hip replacements last?

The implants used in hip replacement today are stronger, more flexible and last longer, so they can keep you moving comfortably for up to 20 years. The actual length of time your hip replacement will last will depend on several factors, including your activity level and weight. An orthopedic surgeon with expertise in hip replacement surgery can help you understand what to expect in your unique case.

Read about how successful hip replacement can change a life

At 47, Christine Burke had been experiencing serious hip pain for more than a decade. A personal trainer and avid runner, she attributed her discomfort to overuse. She tried analgesics, acupuncture, physical therapy, even a cortisone injection, but nothing provided lasting relief. 


A successful joint replacement at Scripps allowed Christine to eliminate her chronic pain, enjoy exercising again and continue her career.


Learn more about Christine's life before and after hip replacement surgery.

The best hip replacement surgeons

The best hip replacement surgeons

Hip replacement surgery is among the most common surgeries in the U.S. Our orthopedic surgeons are part of the reason Scripps has been nationally ranked as having one of the best orthopedic programs in the country.

Alternatives to hip replacement

Hip replacement is not an option without an expert diagnosis based on imaging tests and a physical exam. Some people with serious health problems may not be eligible for hip replacement surgery. 


Health insurance providers have various requirements before they will approve a hip replacement procedure, so be sure to check with your insurance plan. Usually, nonsurgical treatments are required before any surgery would be scheduled. These may include:



Scripps offers sports therapy and physical therapy at more than half a dozen locations in San Diego. Our team of experts uses the latest techniques and technologies to help people regain strength and mobility to get back in the game. Talk to your doctor about getting a referral to a specially trained Scripps rehabilitation specialist for hip therapy.

Scripps locations for hip replacement surgery

Scripps provides hip replacement surgery for patients across San Diego County at five hospital campuses:


Support services and resources

As leaders in orthopedic care, we know what it takes to keep joints healthy. That’s why we equip our patients with support services and resources to help them achieve their best possible outcome. From connecting you with rehab services to empowering you with educational resources, Scripps offers a comprehensive lineup to help you along every step of your journey.

Support services

We are here for you — not only as your orthopedic surgeons, but as a team of experts who understands that your joint health is about much more than your medical treatment. Specifically, Scripps offers a variety of patient support services to ensure your physical and emotional well-being, as well as resources for dealing with the logistical aspects of your care.


Our services include:



For more offerings, please visit our patient resources section.

Glossary and other resources

Patient education is an important part of understanding your joint condition and treatment plan. To stay informed, we encourage our orthopedic patients to:


  • Bookmark the Scripps glossary of orthopedic terms for easy referencing.
  • Watch the pre- and post-surgery videos your doctor recommends.
  • Consult your orthopedic team for educational materials and a list of trusted online sources beyond the Scripps site. 


Always check with your orthopedic surgeon first to ensure that you have the most accurate information for your particular medical condition or need.