Painful or worn hip and knee replacements
If your hip or knee replacement is painful, unstable, swollen or stiff, or you have been told it is wearing out, I can assess it and explain your options, wherever your original operation was done. Not every problem needs further surgery.
Signs that need checking
- Pain that is new or getting worse
- Swelling or warmth around the joint
- The joint feeling unstable, giving way or dislocating
- Clicking, grinding or squeaking
- Movement getting less
- Being told after an X-ray that the implant is loose or worn
Seek urgent medical help the same day if your joint replacement becomes hot, red and swollen and you feel unwell or have a fever. This can be a sign of infection. Call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.
Assessment
I will take a full history, examine you and arrange X-rays and blood tests, and often a CT scan. If infection is possible, I may take a sample of fluid from the joint. It helps to bring any records of your original operation, including the implant details if you have them.
What happens next
Depending on what we find, the answer may be reassurance and monitoring, physiotherapy, treatment for pain coming from somewhere else such as the back, or revision hip or revision knee surgery.
Written and reviewed by Mr Krishna Boddu FRCS (Tr & Orth), consultant orthopaedic surgeon, GMC 5206961. Last reviewed: 1 November 2026.
Sources
Book a consultation
I see patients at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital. You can book online, or contact my secretary, Daniela Capaldo, who can also help with insurance and self-pay questions.