Can You Be Too Young for a Hip Replacement?

Hip replacement is often associated with older adults, but joint damage and pain don’t always follow a set timeline.

At Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, New York, our board-certified orthopaedic surgeons treat patients of all ages who struggle with joint damage, including those in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Dr. Steven Zelicof is our hip specialist with vast experience in joint replacement, and he will help you find the best treatment. 

If you’re wondering whether you’re too young for a hip replacement, the real question is: how much is hip pain interfering with your life?

Is There a Minimum Age for Hip Replacement?

Technically, there is no official minimum age for hip replacement surgery. Many younger patients hesitate to pursue it because they think they are too young, but age alone isn’t the deciding factor. 

What matters most is the severity of your symptoms and how much your quality of life has declined. If pain, stiffness, or limited mobility are affecting your ability to enjoy everyday activities, it may be time to consider surgical options. 

That said, younger patients may need to plan for the possibility of future revision surgery. Artificial joints typically last 15 to 20 years, although newer materials may last longer. 

Why Hip Problems Can Start Early

Hip replacement surgery is most common for people between 50 and 80 years old, but some people develop hip arthritis or joint damage sooner than expected. This can happen for a few different reasons:

• A past injury that weakened or misaligned the joint
• A structural issue present since birth, like hip dysplasia
• An autoimmune condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Repetitive stress from sports or physically demanding jobs

Even at a younger age, these issues can lead to mobility problems that don’t always improve with basic care.

Finding Relief Beyond Non-surgical Care

At Specialty Orthopaedics, we typically recommend conservative treatments first. Those could include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, assistive devices, and corticosteroid injections.

But if and when the non-surgical options stop working, surgery could be the right next step. Call 914-686-0111 to set up your appointment with Dr. Zelicof in Harrison, NY, and find out what your options are.