Hip pain can affect your mobility, independence and quality of life. If you have advanced hip arthritis, a total hip replacement can relieve pain and help you return to a more active lifestyle. The right treatment depends on your symptoms, your general health and how much the condition affects your everyday life.

Dr Joris van der Lugt is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in hip and knee replacement. Based in Marbella and Estepona, he has specialised in the muscle-sparing anterior approach to hip replacement since 2008.

What is a total hip replacement?

A total hip replacement replaces the damaged parts of the hip joint with artificial components. The damaged femoral head is replaced with an artificial ball and stem, while the worn socket is replaced with an artificial cup.

Dr van der Lugt uses the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA), a minimally invasive technique that reaches the hip from the front. Instead of cutting through the major muscles, the surgeon works between them. This helps preserve muscle tissue and may support an earlier recovery. As with any operation, results and recovery times vary from person to person.

How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip replacements are designed to last for many years. Many last 25 years or longer, depending on the implant, activity level, body weight and individual circumstances. Some last considerably longer.

Regular follow-up and a healthy, active lifestyle can help you look after your new hip. Your surgeon can explain what to expect based on your age, health and planned activities.

What are the symptoms of hip arthritis?

Common signs of a worn hip joint include:

• Pain in the groin, hip, buttock or thigh.
• Stiffness, especially after resting or in the morning.
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or putting on shoes and socks.
• Reduced hip movement and flexibility.
• Pain that affects sleep or everyday activities.

If these symptoms persist or gradually get worse, an orthopaedic assessment can help identify the cause and determine the most suitable treatment.

When should you see an orthopaedic surgeon?

Consider seeing an orthopaedic surgeon if hip pain continues, limits your daily activities, affects your sleep or no longer improves enough with non-surgical treatment.

An assessment usually includes a discussion of your symptoms, a physical examination and X-rays when appropriate. Surgery is considered in light of your symptoms, imaging results and overall health, not simply your age or X-ray findings.

Are there non-surgical treatment options?

Yes. Depending on the severity of the arthritis, treatment may include physiotherapy, suitable low-impact exercise, weight management and pain-relieving medication.

In selected cases, injections may also be considered. These treatments can help manage symptoms and may delay the need for surgery, but they cannot reverse advanced joint damage. Dr van der Lugt also offers non-surgical treatments for selected joint conditions. The most suitable option depends on your diagnosis and individual circumstances.

When can you walk again, and how long will you stay in hospital?

One possible advantage of the anterior approach is that patients may be able to start moving early. If their medical condition allows, they can generally begin standing and walking with assistance on the day of surgery.

After surgery, your clinical team will assess your progress and explain the next steps for safe mobilisation and recovery. The arrangements for hospital care and initial physiotherapy will depend on your individual treatment plan.

Crutches are normally used during the first weeks of recovery. Support is gradually reduced as strength, balance and confidence improve, following advice from the care team.

How many weeks of physiotherapy are needed?

Physiotherapy starts shortly after surgery and is an important part of recovery. At first, the focus is on walking safely, improving mobility and rebuilding strength.

Many patients follow a structured rehabilitation programme for around four to six weeks, although the duration depends on individual progress and treatment needs. Continuing the recommended exercises at home is also important.

Why choose Compass Clinic Marbella?

Compass Clinic offers an integrated approach to orthopaedic care, combining specialist surgery with personalised support and rehabilitation.

Key features of the service include:

• An experienced surgeon: Dr Joris van der Lugt has specialised in the anterior approach since 2008 and has performed more than 3,000 procedures using this approach.
• A muscle-sparing technique: The direct anterior approach aims to preserve the muscles around the hip.
• A coordinated treatment plan: The services included, as well as arrangements for hospital care and rehabilitation, will be confirmed as part of your individual treatment plan.
• Personalised support: Patients receive guidance throughout treatment and recovery.
• Support for international patients: Patients can plan their treatment alongside a recovery stay in the Marbella area. Accommodation options are available through the clinic’s medical tourism programme.

When can you fly home?

For international patients, travel plans are an important part of preparing for surgery. After an uncomplicated recovery, a return flight around one week after surgery may be possible, but only after the surgeon has assessed you and confirmed that it is safe.

The timing must be decided individually because flying after major surgery carries a risk of blood clots. Your care team will advise you on flight safety, medication, mobility and any precautions you may need.

Personal care in four languages

Dr Joris van der Lugt speaks Dutch, English, Spanish and German. This helps international patients discuss their concerns, understand their treatment options and feel at ease throughout their care.

If hip pain is limiting your life, a consultation can help you understand the cause of your symptoms and explore whether a total hip replacement may be right for you.

Compass Clinic provides specialist orthopaedic care, personalised treatment and recovery support on the Costa del Sol.

Hip pain can affect your mobility, independence and quality of life. If you have advanced hip arthritis, a total hip replacement can relieve pain and help you return to a more active lifestyle. The right treatment depends on your symptoms, your general health and how much the condition affects your everyday life.

Dr Joris van der Lugt is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in hip and knee replacement. Based in Marbella and Estepona, he has specialised in the muscle-sparing anterior approach to hip replacement since 2008.

What is a total hip replacement?

A total hip replacement replaces the damaged parts of the hip joint with artificial components. The damaged femoral head is replaced with an artificial ball and stem, while the worn socket is replaced with an artificial cup.

Dr van der Lugt uses the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA), a minimally invasive technique that reaches the hip from the front. Instead of cutting through the major muscles, the surgeon works between them. This helps preserve muscle tissue and may support an earlier recovery. As with any operation, results and recovery times vary from person to person.

How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip replacements are designed to last for many years. Many last 25 years or longer, depending on the implant, activity level, body weight and individual circumstances. Some last considerably longer.

Regular follow-up and a healthy, active lifestyle can help you look after your new hip. Your surgeon can explain what to expect based on your age, health and planned activities.

What are the symptoms of hip arthritis?

Common signs of a worn hip joint include:

• Pain in the groin, hip, buttock or thigh.
• Stiffness, especially after resting or in the morning.
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or putting on shoes and socks.
• Reduced hip movement and flexibility.
• Pain that affects sleep or everyday activities.

If these symptoms persist or gradually get worse, an orthopaedic assessment can help identify the cause and determine the most suitable treatment.

When should you see an orthopaedic surgeon?

Consider seeing an orthopaedic surgeon if hip pain continues, limits your daily activities, affects your sleep or no longer improves enough with non-surgical treatment.

An assessment usually includes a discussion of your symptoms, a physical examination and X-rays when appropriate. Surgery is considered in light of your symptoms, imaging results and overall health, not simply your age or X-ray findings.

Are there non-surgical treatment options?

Yes. Depending on the severity of the arthritis, treatment may include physiotherapy, suitable low-impact exercise, weight management and pain-relieving medication.

In selected cases, injections may also be considered. These treatments can help manage symptoms and may delay the need for surgery, but they cannot reverse advanced joint damage. Dr van der Lugt also offers non-surgical treatments for selected joint conditions. The most suitable option depends on your diagnosis and individual circumstances.

When can you walk again, and how long will you stay in hospital?

One possible advantage of the anterior approach is that patients may be able to start moving early. If their medical condition allows, they can generally begin standing and walking with assistance on the day of surgery.

After surgery, your clinical team will assess your progress and explain the next steps for safe mobilisation and recovery. The arrangements for hospital care and initial physiotherapy will depend on your individual treatment plan.

Crutches are normally used during the first weeks of recovery. Support is gradually reduced as strength, balance and confidence improve, following advice from the care team.

How many weeks of physiotherapy are needed?

Physiotherapy starts shortly after surgery and is an important part of recovery. At first, the focus is on walking safely, improving mobility and rebuilding strength.

Many patients follow a structured rehabilitation programme for around four to six weeks, although the duration depends on individual progress and treatment needs. Continuing the recommended exercises at home is also important.

Why choose Compass Clinic Marbella?

Compass Clinic offers an integrated approach to orthopaedic care, combining specialist surgery with personalised support and rehabilitation.

Key features of the service include:

• An experienced surgeon: Dr Joris van der Lugt has specialised in the anterior approach since 2008 and has performed more than 3,000 procedures using this approach.
• A muscle-sparing technique: The direct anterior approach aims to preserve the muscles around the hip.
• A coordinated treatment plan: The services included, as well as arrangements for hospital care and rehabilitation, will be confirmed as part of your individual treatment plan.
• Personalised support: Patients receive guidance throughout treatment and recovery.
• Support for international patients: Patients can plan their treatment alongside a recovery stay in the Marbella area. Accommodation options are available through the clinic’s medical tourism programme.

When can you fly home?

For international patients, travel plans are an important part of preparing for surgery. After an uncomplicated recovery, a return flight around one week after surgery may be possible, but only after the surgeon has assessed you and confirmed that it is safe.

The timing must be decided individually because flying after major surgery carries a risk of blood clots. Your care team will advise you on flight safety, medication, mobility and any precautions you may need.

Personal care in four languages

Dr Joris van der Lugt speaks Dutch, English, Spanish and German. This helps international patients discuss their concerns, understand their treatment options and feel at ease throughout their care.

If hip pain is limiting your life, a consultation can help you understand the cause of your symptoms and explore whether a total hip replacement may be right for you.

Compass Clinic provides specialist orthopaedic care, personalised treatment and recovery support on the Costa del Sol.

To mark World Menopause Day on 18 October, specialists at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital are highlighting how the hormonal changes associated with menopause can begin several years before a woman’s final period, affecting far more than just gynaecological health.

From heart health and emotional wellbeing to metabolism, these changes can have a significant impact on women’s overall health. During perimenopause, many women begin experiencing irregular periods, hot flushes, sleep disturbances and physical and psychological changes, some of which may continue after menopause.

Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s 40s, although it can start earlier or later and may last for several years. Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age in Spain being around 51. It is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, provided there is no other medical explanation.

This marks the beginning of postmenopause, when cardiovascular prevention, bone health and maintaining muscle mass become particularly important.

How perimenopause and menopause affect heart health

Dr Silvia Silva, cardiologist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, explains that oestrogen plays an important role in several processes linked to blood vessel function and metabolism. Fluctuating hormone levels during perimenopause, followed by a decline in oestrogen, can therefore influence cardiovascular health.

“During perimenopause, women may begin to experience changes in cholesterol levels, blood pressure and body fat distribution. This is why it is important to pay attention to cardiovascular health even while periods are still occurring, rather than waiting until menopause to start taking preventive measures,” Dr Silva explains.

During this transition, hormonal and age-related changes can contribute to increased abdominal fat, changes in blood lipid levels and a gradual rise in blood pressure, all of which may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

“Many women still associate cardiovascular disease primarily with men, when in fact it is also one of the leading causes of death among women. Perimenopause is an ideal time to check blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose levels and other cardiovascular risk factors,” she adds.

Dr Silva emphasises that following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and attending medical check-ups tailored to individual needs are essential steps towards protecting heart health.

Anxiety, irritability and insomnia: emotional changes can begin before menopause

Perimenopause can also affect emotional wellbeing. Hormonal fluctuations, disrupted sleep and other personal circumstances may contribute to irritability, anxiety, mood swings and difficulties with concentration.

Marine Bodin, psychologist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, explains that many women begin experiencing symptoms during the menopausal transition while they are still having periods, meaning they do not always recognise the connection.

“During perimenopause, some women may experience changes in mood, increased irritability or difficulties sleeping and concentrating. However, these changes do not affect everyone in the same way. It is therefore important to consider not only physical symptoms, but also each woman’s personal, family and professional circumstances, stress levels and ability to cope with challenges,” Bodin explains.

Hot flushes and night sweats can disrupt sleep, leading to greater daytime fatigue and contributing to changes in mood.

Physical and sexual changes during this stage of life may also affect body image, self-esteem and sexual wellbeing, although their impact varies considerably from one woman to another.

“We should not assume that anxiety, insomnia or emotional distress are inevitable parts of menopause. When these symptoms persist or interfere with everyday life, it is important to explore their possible causes and seek professional support. Psychological care can help improve emotional wellbeing, develop effective coping strategies and address the challenges that may arise during this transition,” Bodin concludes.