Movement, movement, movement - that's what we can do to provide the joint cartilage with all the nutrients it needs. But it can still happen: The hip causes problems and pain restricts mobility. In most cases, joint wear and tear is to blame - the famous osteoarthritis. Depending on the stage, a joint prosthesis can then help. However, experts advise against deciding on artificial joints too quickly. Instead, all non-surgical measures should be exhausted first, such as physiotherapy and cold and heat applications.

Collagen peptides have also proven effective (CH-Alpha Plus, pharmacy). As a recent study shows, they not only stop cartilage degradation, they also strengthen the cartilage and delay the need for artificial joints.

The artificial joint lasts around 15 years

If the osteoarthritis progresses despite everything, surgery is usually the only option. On average, artificial joints last over 15 years, depending on the material and stress. This is according to the German Society for Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery (DGOU). Patients are best advised to visit a certified endoprosthesis center. This is the advice of Dr. Heiko Reichel, President of the German Society for Orthopaedics and Orthopaedic Surgery (DGOOC). This is because they work to the highest standards. They also report the results to the Endoprosthesis Register Germany (EPRD), which was founded at the end of 2012 to increase surgical safety. Many clinics throughout Germany are already registered here, addresses can be found at: www.eprd.de/de/