Running After a Hip Replacement: A Sports Medicine Doctor’s Perspective

Can You Run After a Hip Replacement?

Traditionally, hip replacement patients were advised to avoid high-impact activities like running due to concerns about implant wear and failure. However, recent advances in implant technology, surgical techniques, and rehabilitation protocols have allowed some individuals to return to running after hip replacement surgery.

Factors That Influence a Safe Return to Running

While running on a hip replacement isn’t universally recommended, several factors determine whether it’s a possibility:

1. Implant Type and Material

   • Modern hip replacements use ceramic, titanium, and highly cross-linked polyethylene materials designed for durability.

   • Cementless implants tend to integrate better with bone over time, potentially supporting higher-impact activities.

2. Surgical Approach

   • Anterior hip replacements generally have fewer restrictions and a faster recovery timeline than traditional posterior approaches.

   • Surgeons who specialize in joint preservation may have different protocols for returning to impact activities.

3. Pre-Surgery and Post-Surgery Fitness

   • Runners who maintain good strength, mobility, and body mechanics before surgery tend to recover better.

   • A structured rehabilitation program focused on glute, core, and hip stability is essential for reducing joint stress.

Risks of Running After a Hip Replacement

While some individuals can safely return to running, it’s important to weigh the potential risks:

• Increased Implant Wear & Loosening – Running creates repetitive impact forces that can accelerate implant degradation.

• Risk of Bone Fracture – High-impact activities may increase stress on the bone surrounding the implant.

• Altered Biomechanics – Some runners may unknowingly compensate with poor form, leading to secondary injuries.

Best Practices for Running After a Hip Replacement

If you and your surgeon decide that returning to running is appropriate, follow these guidelines:

1. Prioritize Strength & Mobility

   • Focus on glute activation, single-leg stability, and core engagement to minimize impact forces.

   • Cross-train with cycling, swimming, or elliptical workouts before gradually incorporating running.

2. Start with Low-Impact Running

   • Begin with walk-run intervals on softer surfaces like turf or trails.

   • Use proper footwear with good shock absorption to reduce stress on the joint.

3. Listen to Your Body

   • Any persistent pain or swelling may indicate excessive stress on the implant—adjust training accordingly.

   • Follow up with your surgeon or physical therapist regularly to monitor implant integrity.

Conclusion

Running after a hip replacement is possible for some individuals, but it requires careful consideration, professional guidance, and a gradual return-to-run program. If you’re a runner with a hip replacement, work closely with your sports medicine team to develop a safe and sustainable plan for staying active without compromising your new joint.

At Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C., our doctors specialize in sports medicine services, including exercise counseling and physician services to assess your risk for injury and assist in your performance goals.

Call or click to book a session with our professionals at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. In addition to problem-focused visits, we offer sports performance evaluations to stop problems before they start. Plan your visit today!

Author

Peter Wenger, MD Peter C. Wenger, MD, is an orthopedic and non-operative sports injury specialist at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C., in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. He is board certified in both family medicine and sports medicine. Dr. Wenger brings a unique approach to sports medicine care with his comprehensive understanding of family medicine, sports medicine, and surgery. As a multisport athlete himself, he understands a patient’s desire to safely return to their sport.