Myths and Facts About Hip Preservation

4 min read

Hip preservation is a specialized medical approach designed to treat hip joint conditions while maintaining the natural structure and function of the hip. However, misconceptions about hip preservation can lead to confusion and hesitation about treatment options. This article debunks common myths and presents facts to help you make informed decisions about your hip health.

Myth 1: Hip Preservation Is Only for Young Athletes

Fact:

While young athletes frequently undergo hip preservation procedures due to high-impact sports injuries, these treatments are not limited to athletes. Hip preservation is beneficial for individuals of all ages who experience hip pain, instability, or early joint degeneration. Adults and seniors with conditions such as hip dysplasia, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), or labral tears can also be excellent candidates for hip preservation procedures, potentially avoiding or delaying total hip replacement.

➡️ Learn more about hip conditions in What Is Hip Dysplasia? A Comprehensive Guide.

Myth 2: Hip Preservation Is Only About Pain Relief

Fact:

Pain relief is an important benefit of hip preservation, but the primary goal is to correct structural abnormalities, restore proper hip function, and enhance joint stability. Procedures such as:

Hip Arthroscopy – Removes bone spurs and repairs labral tears.
Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO) – Corrects hip dysplasia by realigning the hip socket.
Labral Repair – Restores the cartilage ring that stabilizes the hip joint.

These treatments address the root causes of hip pain rather than just providing temporary relief.

➡️ Read about hip preservation procedures in Everything You Need to Know About PAO Surgery.

Myth 3: Hip Preservation Procedures Are Highly

Invasive and Require Long Recovery Times

Fact:

Many hip preservation procedures are minimally invasive, using techniques such as arthroscopy to make small incisions and reduce recovery times.

Hip Arthroscopy – Performed through tiny incisions, often allowing patients to return to normal activities in a few months.
Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO) – A more complex surgery that requires longer recovery, but offers long-term benefits for hip dysplasia patients.

Recovery varies by procedure and individual factors, but advances in physical therapy and rehabilitation help patients regain mobility faster.

➡️ Discover rehabilitation tips in The Essential Guide to Post-Surgery Rehabilitation.

Myth 4: Hip Preservation Is Only for a Specific Condition

Fact:

Hip preservation treatments address multiple hip conditions, including:

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) – When extra bone growth leads to hip pain and reduced mobility.
Hip Dysplasia – A misaligned hip socket causing joint instability.
Labral Tears – Damage to the ring of cartilage that stabilizes the hip joint.

Each condition requires a customized treatment plan, which may involve surgical or non-surgical hip preservation approaches.

➡️ Explore treatment options in Avoiding Total Hip Replacement: Exploring Conservative and Surgical Alternatives.

Myth 5: All Hip Preservation Procedures Have the Same Outcome

Fact:

Outcomes vary based on:

The severity of the condition being treated.
The patient’s overall health and commitment to rehabilitation.
The experience of the surgeon performing the procedure.

While many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function, some may still require additional treatment or lifestyle adjustments. Following post-surgical rehab protocols significantly influences long-term success.

➡️ Read real patient success stories in Patient Stories: Overcoming Hip Dysplasia with PAO Surgery.

Myth 6: Hip Preservation Procedures Are Just as Risky as Hip Replacement

Fact:

Hip preservation generally carries fewer risks than total hip replacement, especially when performed before extensive joint damage occurs.

Less Invasive: Hip arthroscopy has a lower complication rate than total hip replacement.
Joint Preservation: PAO and labral repair focus on maintaining the natural hip joint rather than replacing it.
Lower Infection Risk: Smaller incisions mean less risk of infection and shorter hospital stays.

While all surgeries carry some risks, hip preservation aims to delay or eliminate the need for full joint replacement.

➡️ Compare procedures in Comparing PAO Surgery and Hip Scope Surgery.

Myth 7: Hip Preservation Guarantees a Full Return to Activity

Fact:

While many patients regain full mobility, results depend on:

The severity of the initial condition.
Post-surgery rehabilitation adherence.
Type of activity the patient wants to resume.

Some high-impact activities (e.g., competitive sports) may need to be modified or avoided to prevent further joint damage. A personalized recovery plan from your specialist can maximize function while protecting the hip joint.

➡️ Check out rehab exercises in Top Exercises to Prepare for Hip Surgery.

Myth 8: No Preparation Is Needed for Hip Preservation Procedures

Fact:

Pre-surgical preparation significantly improves outcomes. Steps include:

Prehabilitation Exercises – Strengthening muscles before surgery can aid in faster recovery.
Home Preparation – Setting up assistive devices and a safe recovery space reduces stress post-surgery.
Understanding the Procedure – Discussing expected recovery timelines and outcomes with your doctor can ease anxiety.

➡️ Prepare for surgery with Preparing for Your Hip Surgery: A Step-by-Step Guide.

Conclusion

Hip preservation is a proven and effective approach for treating hip conditions without resorting to full joint replacement. By understanding the facts, you can make informed decisions about your hip health and explore treatment options that best suit your age, lifestyle, and condition.

If you’re experiencing hip pain, instability, or mobility issues, consulting with a hip preservation specialist can help determine whether surgical or non-surgical treatments are right for you.

➡️ Find the right specialist in How to Choose the Right Hip Preservation Specialist.