Can I Run after Hip Replacement?

Many people ask me if it is all right for them to resume running or jogging after total hip replacement.  In Arizona where I live, I see many avid runners who would like to be able to run again after surgery.  I have always believed that you have hip replacement surgery to be able to return to the activities that you love.  However, it is important to minimize any risk to your new implant.

In general, it is best to wait to return to any high impact sports until we are reasonably sure that the bone around your hip replacement has healed fully.  If such activties are resumed prematurely, there is a risk that the bone may not complete full healing.  This may lead to repeat surgery.  I usually recommend waiting 3-4 months before beginning a gentle jogging program.  We begin with 30 minutes, 3 times per week.  By 6 months, as long as your X-rays indicate that the bone has healed properly, you may increase your running as you like up to a reasonable amount.  

For all hip replacement patients, I do check yearly X-rays to monitor for signs of implant wear or bone changes.

Please see Neil Weintraub's article about his return to running in the Arizona Daily Sun (link available through this website).