Dislocation After Hip Replacement, Reduced
The hip is a ball-and-socket type of joint. After a hip replacement surgery, the muscles and ligaments that normally keep the hip in place are made weaker. The ball of the new hip is more easily forced out of its position in the socket. This is called a dislocation. This is the most common problem after hip replacement surgery.
Your hip joint has been put back in place. This is called a reduction. But you are at risk for another dislocation. Dislocations can damage the implant. Follow the advice below to prevent this. Exercises to make leg muscle stronger may help prevent another dislocation. Your health care provider may suggest these once you have no pain and can walk without crutches.
If you have had a few dislocations, it may be helpful to have another surgery to reposition the implants or to insert new implants. You can talk about these choices with your orthopedic surgeon.
Home care
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Follow your health care provider's advice about weight bearing and using crutches or a walker.
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Take pain medicine as directed.
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Don't cross your legs.
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Don't bend forward from the hips more than 90°. Be careful to stay away from low seats, sofas, and toilets.
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Try using crutches or a walker if your provider approves. Ask your provider when this is safe. A physical therapist may also help with your recovery.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider as advised.
Call 911
Call 911 or get care right away if any of the following occur:
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Leg becomes pale or cold
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Numbness or weakness in the affected leg
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Shortness of breath or chest pain
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Dizziness, weakness, or fainting
When to get medical advice
Contact your health care provider if any of these occur:
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Increasing hip pain or deformity
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Increasing swelling, redness, or pain of the lower leg
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rahul Banerjee MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer:
Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
2/1/2025
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