Dr. Anthony McNulty, PT, DPT, OCS
You’ve just got a shiny new hip or knee, and you’re itching to get back to your old active life. It’s natural to feel excited and a bit scared. Will that jogging session wreck your implant? Will the orthopedist roll their eyes if you mention the word running? Here’s the good news: many patients do run again after joint replacement – safely and happily – once they recover. This blog will bust myths, walk through the latest research, and give practical tips so you can decide when (and how) you can hit the pavement again with confidence.
Myth vs. Truth: What You Need to Know
Myth #1: “Running caused my arthritis”
Truth: Research shows that running is not a risk factor for developing hip or knee arthritis. There are actually higher incidences of arthritis in individuals who do not run in comparison to people who do run. (Evidence: Dhillon et.al., 2023)
Myth #2: “You can’t run after a joint replacement.”
Truth: Many people can return to low-impact, recreational running — especially if they were active runners before surgery. It depends on your health, recovery, implant type, and individual goals. (Evidence: Witjes et al., 2021; Huch et al., 2005)
Myth #3: “Running will wear out the implant quickly.”
Truth: Modern implants use advanced materials like cross-linked polyethylene and ceramics, which are significantly more durable than older models. Research shows no consistent link between occasional running and early implant failure. (Evidence: Parratte & Pagnano, 2010; D’Lima et al., 2012)
Myth #4: “Even light jogging is dangerous.”
Truth: With full strength, control, and medical clearance, light running or jogging may be safe and beneficial for some patients.
Evidence: Khan et al., 2020; Mont et al., 2008
Myth #5: “You have to give up your active lifestyle.”
Truth: Many patients return to sports and active hobbies like golf, cycling, hiking, and yes — even running. It’s about smart planning, not permanent restriction.
Evidence: Healy et al., 2001; Meira & Zeni, 2014
What the Evidence Says
- Return to recreational running is possible with the right preparation and support.
- Newer implant materials are highly wear-resistant and built to last.
- Proper strength and mechanics reduce joint stress and enhance safety.
- Long-term activity after joint replacement is often associated with better physical and mental health outcomes.
Tips for Returning to Running Safely
- Complete your early post-operative rehab program and make sure you have rebuilt your strength, endurance, balance and mobility.
- Do not stop your program too early! Being free from pain doesn’t mean your body is back to it’s pre-injury level.
- Work with a rehab professional who specializes in runners who can tailor your program to your specific needs with your goal of running in mind.
- Start slow, beginning on flat surfaces and using run walk intervals. Focus on form and stride and less about how fast or how far you are going.
- Listen to your body and scale appropriately. Make sure you communicate with your rehab professional or coach so they can adjust your workout based on your needs.
- Give yourself grace and be kind to yourself! The return can be slow but it is for a lifetime of benefit!
References:
Dhillon, J., Kraeutler, M. J., Belk, J. W., Scillia, A. J., McCarty, E. C., Ansah-Twum, J., & McCulloch, P. C. (2023). Effects of running on the development of knee osteoarthritis: An updated systematic review at short-term follow-up. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine
Witjes, S., et al. (2021). Return to Sports and Physical Activity After Total Knee and Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The Journal of Arthroplasty, 36(2), 710–723.
Parratte, S., & Pagnano, M. W. (2010). The durability of total knee arthroplasty: a 2010 update. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 92(5), 1119–1130.
D’Lima, D. D., et al. (2012). Polyethylene wear and osteolysis. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 470(6), 1536–1540.
Healy, W. L., et al. (2001). Athletic activity after total joint arthroplasty. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 83(10), 1487–1491.
Khan, M., et al. (2020). Return to Sport After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports Health, 12(5), 443–455.
Mont, M. A., et al. (2008). Activity levels and functional outcomes of total hip arthroplasty patients one year after surgery. The Journal of Arthroplasty, 23(6), 819–823.
Huch, K., et al. (2005). Sports activities 5 years after total knee or hip arthroplasty. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 53(6), 935–942.
Meira, E. P., & Zeni, J. A. (2014). Sports participation following total hip arthroplasty. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 9(6), 839–846.