My mother-in-law was born and raised in Korea. She lives with us in the U.S. Most of her work at home and in the garden is done in the squatting position. She’s going to have her hip replaced this month. Will she be able to squat again after the operation?

There’s a known relation between hip dislocation and squatting after hip joint replacement. Studies from Korea and other Asian countries report a high rate of revision surgery for this problem.

Doctors in these countries are studying the problem. It may be that using a smaller implant will help. The head of the thighbone (femur) is shaped like a round ball. It sits up inside the hip socket. Using an implant with a smaller head may help it stay inside the socket (or cup if the socket is replaced, too).

Be sure the doctor is aware of your mother-in-law’s habits and your concerns. The type of implant used may be selected based on this information.