Joint Replacement Surgery
Facing joint replacement surgery can bring questions about pain, mobility, recovery and managing at home. Find clear information about hip, knee and other joint replacements, with links to NHS guidance and specialist NHS hospital information.
Our information is free to use, with no hidden costs. It supports understanding and does not replace advice from your surgical team.
Sixpence Support UK is an independent information service, not part of the NHS. NHS.uk information is published for England; NHS hospital guides describe the named hospital’s care. Your own team’s instructions take priority wherever you live in the UK.
When to get urgent help
After surgery, contact your surgical team urgently or seek urgent medical advice for fever or shivering, pus or discharge from the wound, or increasing redness, swelling or pain. New calf pain or swelling also needs urgent assessment.
Call 999 for sudden difficulty breathing, chest pain or collapse, especially with a painful or swollen leg. Do not drive yourself to emergency care.
For urgent problems that are not immediately life-threatening, use your local NHS urgent-care service. NHS 111 is available by telephone in England, Scotland and Wales; in Northern Ireland use your local GP out-of-hours service.
- England: NHS 111.
- Scotland: NHS 111.
- Wales: NHS 111.
- Northern Ireland: Local GP out-of-hours service.
NHS 111 online below is for England only. Scotland and Wales have their own services.
What is joint replacement?
Joint replacement surgery replaces damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. It may be considered when joint pain and reduced movement significantly affect everyday life. Your specialist will discuss whether surgery is appropriate and which alternatives may help.
Hip replacement
A total hip replacement replaces the ball and socket of the hip joint. Other procedures, including partial replacement, may be offered in particular circumstances. The operation chosen depends on the joint problem and your health.
Knee replacement
Knee replacement can involve the whole joint or, for some people, only part of it. Your surgical team will explain the available options, expected benefits and risks.
Shoulder replacement
Shoulder replacement aims to reduce pain and improve function. There are different types of replacement, and rehabilitation restrictions depend on your operation. Follow your own team's advice on slings, exercises and using the arm.
Elbow replacement
Elbow replacement may be considered for a badly damaged, painful joint. Ask your surgeon about restrictions on lifting and using the arm, including any long-term limits.
Ankle and other replacements
Some people with severe ankle joint damage may be assessed for ankle replacement or other treatment, such as fusion. Specialist surgery may also be available for selected smaller joints. Suitability and rehabilitation vary.