Returning to Sport After Total Hip Replacement: Your Guide to Recovery
- Emma Glynn
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 15
When Can I Get Back to the Sport I Love?
This is a common question I hear from individuals recovering after total hip replacement (THR) surgery. Whether it's golf, swimming, cycling, or long walks with friends, returning to activity is more than just about fitness. It’s about identity, routine, and quality of life.
But here’s the honest answer: there's no one-size-fits-all timeline.
Why Timelines Alone Don’t Work
You might hear things like: “You can return to road cycling at 12 weeks” or “Golf is fine by 6 months.”
These statements aren’t necessarily wrong, but they oversimplify a very individual process. The timeline for your return to sport depends on several factors:
The surgical approach (anterior vs. posterior)
Your pre-surgery fitness and strength
Your current function (not just how much time has passed)
The physical demands of your chosen sport (e.g., walking vs. tennis)
(American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, 2021; Pozzi, et al, 2015)
What Actually Determines Readiness
At The Hip and Knee Physio, I focus on milestones, not months, to guide your return to sport. Here are some signs that your body may be ready to cope with sport:
✅ You can walk for 60 minutes without pain or limping.
✅ You can stand on one leg for over 30 seconds with good control.
✅ You’ve rebuilt hip strength and improved range of motion.
✅ You can perform step-ups, mini hops, or light jog drills without flare-ups.
✅ You’ve shed old compensations, like a stiff torso or limping.
(American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, 2021; Pozzi, et al, 2015)
If you're unsure whether you are meeting these criteria, a physiotherapist-led return-to-sport assessment can provide clarity.
3 Mistakes That Can Delay Your Return
Going Back Too Early
Progressing before your hip is ready can lead to setbacks, such as joint irritation or re-injury.
Waiting Too Long Out of Fear
Delaying unnecessarily can stall strength gains and hurt your confidence.
Skipping Structured Rehab
Low-impact exercises might feel fine, but without progressively rebuilding strength, control, and load tolerance, you increase your risk of re-injury.
(Husted et al, 2011; Meira et al, 2014)
Not sure what’s behind your hip or knee pain?
Take this free, 60-second quiz created by APA Titled Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Emma Glynn. It’s designed to help you identify the most likely cause of your pain — from fat pad irritation to osteoarthritis — and guide your next step.
👉 Take the quiz now and get tailored insights to move forward with confidence.
The Bottom Line: Sport Is Possible
Yes, returning to sport after hip replacement is absolutely achievable. The key is a structured plan built around:
Clear milestones
Progressive loading
Experienced support
Your personal goals
Where to Go From Here
To make your return to sport easier, I’ve created a free guide. The guide is titled Return to Sport After Hip Replacement – The Hip and Knee Physio's Guide and covers:
What to expect during each phase of recovery.
Evidence-based signs that indicate you're ready to progress.
Red flags signaling when it’s time to pause or reassess.
Sport-specific timelines and movement drills.
📩 Click the button below to access your download
What’s Next?
Returning to sport after a hip replacement doesn’t have to be confusing or risky. Your success hinges on having the right plan and understanding when your body is ready.
If you’re uncertain about your next steps, Book a consult with me, Emma, at The Hip and Knee Physio. I can help you create a tailored recovery plan that suits your goals.
👉 Book online to take the first step toward pain-free movement.
Can't Find What You're Looking For?
Explore more of our most popular services and guides:
Disclaimer
The content provided on this website is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While The Hip and Knee Physio strives to present accurate and up-to-date information, we do not guarantee results or outcomes based on the information provided. Any exercises, strategies, or recommendations featured on this site should not be considered a personalized treatment plan. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, particularly if you are experiencing pain, injury, or a pre-existing medical condition. Use of this website does not create a physiotherapist-patient relationship. The Hip and Knee Physio accepts no responsibility for any injury or loss arising from reliance on or use of this information. By using this website, you agree to these terms.
References
Husted, H. et al. (2011). Fast-track hip and knee replacement – what are the issues? Acta Orthopaedica.
Meira, E.P., & Zeni, J.A. (2014). Sports participation following total hip arthroplasty. Int J Sports Phys Ther.
Pozzi, F., et al. (2015). Return to sport after hip arthroplasty: A systematic review. PM&R Journal.
American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (2021). Guidelines on Return to Activity after Total Hip Replacement.
Comments