Blog Post

If you have chronic hip pain in your 30s or 40s, you're not too young to feel better. Although the typical patient is around 65 years old, the rate of hip replacements in patients ages 45-54 has doubled in recent times. We rarely rule patients out just because they're younger. 

At Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, with convenient locations in San Antonio, Schertz, Live Oak, and New Braunfels, Texas, we’ve helped many younger adults find relief and get back to the activities they love without unnecessary delays or outdated assumptions. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained doctors provide comprehensive joint care for patients with hip pain, regardless of age.

We believe that you deserve long-term relief from chronic hip pain and stiffness, whether you're an active young person or in your golden years.

Qualifying factors for hip replacement

Our doctors might recommend that you consider a hip replacement if you're younger than the typical patient in the following situations.

You have advanced arthritis or severe joint damage

Late-stage arthritis dramatically erodes the cartilage in the hip joint. This can cause bone-on-bone grinding, painful bone spurs, and restricted movement. Similarly, severe joint damage due to injury or other causes can alter joint structure and cause severe pain and movement problems.

You’ve tried nonsurgical options

Although we start with more conservative measures like physical therapy, medication, and joint injections, those approaches may not work well for you if you have advanced arthritis or other severe joint damage. Or, conservative measures might work initially but become less effective.

You’re experiencing a reduced quality of life

Many people with advanced stage arthritis or hip joint injuries experience frustrating life changes. Walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of bed can be painful. For many active younger men and women, hip arthritis may prevent them from pursuing their passions, including sports and active hobbies.

If your hip pain and stiffness causes a significantly reduced quality of life, a hip replacement could help you recapture your former level of function so you can get back to what you love.

Why younger adults are choosing hip replacement

Advancements in surgical techniques and materials have made hip replacements more durable than ever. Modern implants are designed to last 20 years or more, even with active lifestyles. That’s why more younger adults are opting for surgery earlier to stop living with chronic pain and avoid years of reduced mobility.

Our expert surgeons use the latest technologies and minimally invasive techniques to help speed up recovery and decrease downtime. For younger, active patients, that can mean a faster return to the sports, work, or family life they enjoy.

We know that surgery is a big decision, especially at a younger age. That’s why we take a personalized, goal-oriented approach. Our team considers your age, health history, lifestyle, and goals, and we help you understand your options in plain language.

And if you’re not quite ready for surgery, we won’t rush you. We offer comprehensive nonsurgical treatment, including guided physical therapy tailored to your needs, often right in our facility.

At  Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we take pride in delivering care that’s as personal as it is advanced. Do you think you’re too young for a hip replacement? Call the office in your area or connect with us online now to talk to one of our specialists.