Hip replacement

[horner]

   I am 66 years and in excellent health but recently showing signs of hip problems.

  I am told that I will need a replacement in the future but I am not too keen.

Any suggestions as to alternative.

[hopalong]

You are still quite young and as you say in good health so I wouldn't worry about a hip replacement. I know a couple of people who had had them and lead a very good life.  The queen mum was in hers  ninties when she had hers and  as you are 30 years younger you have years ahead of you yet.  Good luck

[shaneystar]

i am 57 and have been told I need a hip replacement some time down the line,also a knee. I'm not keen either and they tend to make you wait as long as possible anyway because the life of a replacement is only about 10 years.My hip is extremely painful and sometimes I have to resort to a walking stick.Not much I can say to help you really.My motto is keep moving painful as it can be.Luckily I have a large dog which forces me to walk three times a day and I also go swimming ..only gently up and down the pool .There are drugs ..Arthrotec and so on but you hear bad reports about these NSAIDS so I avoid them and just take painkillers as and when. .Have a word with your doctor who could refer you for physio which may help.Not being personal but weight loss can help.If you are a bit overweight losing a few pounds takes some pressure off the hip.Wish you all the best.You are not alone ...several other sufferers on AB.All here to help .

[FP]

Hi,

I answered your question in suggestions.  Like Shaneystar I swim and walk my dogs.  Swimming helps tremendously.  I also just take painkillers when necessary and avoid the anti-inflammatory drugs these days.  In fact, I don't think the Meloxicam I took for arthritis helped in the least.

[Clanad]

I finally convinced my father, at age 69 to have the replacement of one hip.  His only regret was that he hadn't had in done sooner... He was almost completely pain free after several years of real discomfort.  Only thing he couldn't do after the operation was cross his legs while sitting.  Doctor said not to do that... something to do with putting strain on the new hip... Best of Luck!

[silly moo]

Sorry to say this, but once the arthritis becomes really bad thee is no alternative to a replacement - other than extreme pain and immobility. If you are only just starting to have problems you have a long way to go till you reach that state.
Generally hip replacements are very successful and most people wish they had the op done earlier.
In my work I see hundreds of these all the time.
All the other suggestions seem to be good ones, exercise as much as you can without causing pain. Swimming is particularly good as you are not weight bearing while you exercise.

[FP]

Was just thinking.  My friend had her first hip replacement at 50 and her second last year - she is one of the most active people I have ever known, trots off all round the world doing activity holidays and looks a picture of health.