What to Expect Before and After Hip Arthroscopy

Hip pain can creep up slowly. At first, it’s just a dull ache after a long walk or an intense workout. But over time, it grows sharper, limiting movement and making even simple tasks uncomfortable. For many people, hip arthroscopy becomes the solution that restores mobility, reduces pain, and improves quality of life.

If you’ve been told you might need hip arthroscopy, you probably have questions: What happens before the surgery? What does recovery look like? How long until you can get back to your normal activities? This guide will walk you through every stage of the journey, from preparation to long-term outcomes.

What is Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the hip joint. Surgeons use small incisions, a tiny camera (arthroscope), and specialized instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue.

It is often recommended for:

• Labral tears.

• Hip impingement (femoroacetabular impingement).

• Loose cartilage or bone fragments.

• Inflammation of the hip lining (synovitis).

• Early arthritis or cartilage damage.

Because it’s less invasive than open surgery, hip arthroscopy usually means shorter recovery times, less scarring, and reduced risk of complications.

Why People Need Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is not just for professional athletes—it’s for anyone whose hip problems affect daily life.

• Athletes: Sports like soccer, hockey, and dance often involve hip rotation, which increases the risk of labral tears.

• Young adults: Conditions like hip impingement are often diagnosed in people in their 20s and 30s.

• Middle-aged patients: Arthroscopy can sometimes delay the need for total hip replacement.

According to the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, more than 70,000 hip arthroscopies are performed each year in the United States, and the number continues to rise as techniques improve.

Preparing for Hip Arthroscopy

Preparation plays a major role in a smooth recovery.

Medical Evaluation

Before surgery, your surgeon will review your medical history, order imaging tests (X-ray, MRI, or CT), and discuss the details of the procedure.

Pre-Surgery Physical Therapy

Many patients start physiotherapy weeks before surgery to build hip strength and improve flexibility. This makes recovery faster.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Stop smoking (if applicable), as it slows healing.

• Maintain a healthy diet to support tissue repair.

• Arrange help at home for the first few days post-surgery.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Hip arthroscopy is usually done under general anesthesia.

1. Small incisions are made around the hip.

2. An arthroscope (tiny camera) is inserted to view the joint.

3. Specialized instruments are used to repair or remove damaged tissue.

4. Incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape.

The procedure usually lasts 1–2 hours, depending on the extent of the repair. Most patients go home the same day.

Immediately After Surgery

Recovery begins right after the procedure.

• Hospital Stay: Most patients are discharged within 24 hours.

• Weight Bearing: Crutches are often needed for 1–2 weeks.

• Pain Management: Medication and ice packs help manage discomfort.

• Dressings: Bandages are removed after a few days, and stitches may be taken out after 10–14 days.

The First Six Weeks of Recovery

Week 1–2

• Focus on reducing pain and swelling.

• Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises.

• Use crutches as recommended.

Week 3–4

• Start physiotherapy to rebuild hip strength.

• Gradually increase walking distance.

• Avoid twisting or high-impact movements.

Week 5–6

• Improved mobility and reduced pain.

• Begin light activities like stationary cycling.

• Return to desk jobs is usually possible.

A study in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (2018) reported that 80% of patients experience significant improvement within six weeks, provided they follow rehab protocols.

Long-Term Recovery Timeline

Recovery doesn’t end after six weeks; it continues over several months.

• 3 months: Most patients return to light exercise.

• 4–6 months: Gradual return to sports or high-impact activities.

• 12 months: Full recovery and return to unrestricted activity.

A 2020 review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that 84% of patients returned to sport after hip arthroscopy, while 65% returned to their previous performance level.

The Role of Physical Therapy

Physiotherapy is critical for recovery. Without it, stiffness and weakness can limit long-term results.

Goals of Therapy

• Restore hip mobility.

• Strengthen surrounding muscles.

• Improve balance and stability.

• Prevent scar tissue formation.

Consistency is key. Patients who complete their full rehab program are significantly more likely to achieve pain-free movement.

Risks and Complications

While hip arthroscopy is generally safe, like all surgeries, it carries some risks.

• Infection (rare, less than 1%).

• Blood clots.

• Temporary numbness in the thigh.

• Hip stiffness.

• Need for further surgery in severe cases.

However, complication rates are low. A study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine (2017) found that the overall complication rate for hip arthroscopy was less than 4%.

Lifestyle Adjustments After Surgery

Even after recovery, lifestyle choices affect long-term outcomes.

• Warm up properly before exercise.

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip.

• Stay active with low-impact activities like swimming and cycling.

• Avoid overtraining or repetitive strain movements.

These habits help preserve hip health and reduce the chances of future injury.

The Psychological Side of Recovery

Many patients underestimate the mental side of recovery. Fear of pain or re-injury can slow progress.

The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (2019) found that nearly 25% of patients reported anxiety about returning to sports even after full physical recovery.

Support from physiotherapists, family, and sometimes sports psychologists helps rebuild confidence.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

The success of hip arthroscopy depends on surgical skill and experience. Factors like the surgeon’s familiarity with advanced techniques, proper diagnosis, and post-operative care all influence results.

For patients in Western Australia, experienced orthopaedic surgeons perth provide tailored care, ensuring each step from preparation to rehabilitation is carefully managed for the best possible outcome.

Final Thoughts

Hip arthroscopy is a life-changing procedure for many people living with hip pain. By understanding what to expect before and after surgery, patients can prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for the journey.

The key is patience; healing takes time, and recovery is a process that unfolds over months. With the right preparation, skilled surgical care, and a dedicated rehabilitation plan, most patients return to pain-free movement and the activities they enjoy.