29: Hip Arthritis Doesn’t Always Mean Your Running Days Are Over

Hip arthritis doesn't always mean your running days are over but it does raise some important questions.

In Episode 29 of The Running Injury Podcast, Dr. Sara Raiser (MD), Sports Dietitian Kelsey Pontius, and Dr. Kate Mihevc Edwards Physical Therapist walk through a listener-submitted case from a 50-year-old ultra runner facing progressive hip arthritis, a torn labrum, nerve pain, and the possibility of a future hip replacement. Together, they discuss how to manage symptoms, delay surgery when appropriate, and prepare for the best possible outcome if surgery becomes necessary.

Whether you're an endurance athlete, marathon runner, trail runner, or someone dealing with hip pain, this episode explores what the current evidence says about hip replacement, returning to running, and protecting long-term joint health.

In this episode, you'll learn:

When hip pain may be a sign that it's time to consider a hip replacementCan you safely run after a hip replacement? What the current research saysHow physical therapy, gait analysis, and strength training can help you keep running longerWhy rotational strength, hip stability, and running mechanics matter before surgeryHow cross-training may reduce symptoms while maintaining fitnessNutrition strategies before and after joint replacement surgery to support healing and recoveryHow protein, hydration, and key nutrients help optimize surgical outcomesThis episode is packed with practical advice for runners trying to stay active while  managing hip arthritis and for anyone wondering what life and running can look like before and after a hip replacement.Featured Experts

Dr. Sara Raiser, MD, FAAPMR, CAQSM – Running Medicine PhysicianKelsey Pontius, MS, RD, CSSD – Sports DietitianDr. Kate Mihevc Edwards, PT, DPT, OCS – Physical Therapist & Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist

Chapter Highlights

00:00 Welcome and host updates

04:10 Listener case: Hip arthritis in an ultra runner

09:30 Hip replacement: When is the right time?

18:45 Can runners return to running after hip replacement?

27:20 Physical therapy, strength training, and gait mechanics