Kitesurfing – a sport that combines freedom, wind, and water. But what if your hip joint can no longer keep up? A hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty) might initially sound like the end of such sporting adventures. However, modern medical technology and advanced implants now allow some people to get back on their boards despite having an artificial hip joint. In this article, you'll learn how kitesurfing with a hip replacement is possible, what risks are involved, and why a short-stem prosthesis can be advantageous.

Thanks to medical advances and durable materials, artificial hip joints are now more robust and resilient than ever before. Short-stem prostheses, in particular, are enjoying increasing popularity because they protect the bone structure and allow for faster mobilization. This is a real advantage, especially for athletes – and those who want to become athletes again.

Understanding artificial hip joints

What is a hip replacement?

A hip replacement replaces the natural hip joint when it is severely damaged by osteoarthritis, injury, or other diseases. The artificial joint is usually made of metal, ceramic, and polyethylene and mimics the mobility of the natural hip joint.

Reasons for hip replacement surgery

Typical reasons that necessitate a hip replacement:

• Osteoarthritis – the most common cause of cartilage wear and tear
• Avascular necrosis of the femoral head – death of the femoral head
• Fractures – broken bones in the hip area, e.g. after accidents
• Dysplasia – congenital malformation of the hip joint

Different types of hip replacements

There are various types of prostheses, including:

• Total hip replacement (THR) – replaces the femoral head and acetabulum
• Short stem prosthesis – shorter anchoring in the femur
• Cap prosthesis – femoral head largely preserved

Kitesurfing: An overview

History and development of kitesurfing

Kitesurfing originated in the 1990s and has developed rapidly. Today it is a popular extreme sport that uses wind power and waves to glide across the water – and perform spectacular jumps.

Physical requirements and health benefits

Kitesurfing trains strength, coordination, and balance. It strengthens the core and legs and improves the cardiovascular system. But the sport also puts a strain on the musculoskeletal system – especially the hips.

Potential risks and injuries in kitesurfing

Kitesurfing carries risks of injury such as falls, twisting, or hard landings. People with hip replacements need to be mindful of the stresses involved.

Kitesurfing with a hip prosthesis: What is possible?

Many people believe that sports like kitesurfing are off-limits for those with a hip replacement. But that's no longer true. A growing number of testimonials show that those who are motivated, undergo a good rehabilitation program, and are already experienced kitesurfers can get back to flying. The key is choosing the right prosthesis, targeted training, and being aware of potential risks.

Medical assessment: What do doctors say?

Orthopedists advise a case-by-case assessment. Factors such as prosthesis stability, muscle strength, and mobility play a role. Careful rehabilitation is essential. Patients should already be very experienced on a kiteboard.

Testimonials from kitesurfers with hip replacements

More and more patients are reporting positive experiences these days. Modern prostheses often offer enough stability and freedom of movement to safely get the board under their feet again.

Adjustments and precautions when kitesurfing

• Soft start and gentle takeoff : Avoid strong vibrations
• Suitable trapeze : Seated trapezes relieve pressure on the hips.
• Controlled jumps : No unnecessary stress peaks

Advantages of short stem prostheses for active athletes

What is a short-stem prosthesis?

The short-stem prosthesis is shorter and gentler on the bone. It preserves more bone mass and often offers greater freedom of movement – ​​ideal for athletically active people.

Short stem prostheses offer several key advantages compared to conventional prostheses:

• Preservation of the femur: The shorter anchorage preserves more bone substance.
• Improved mobility: Kitesurfers benefit from more natural movement patterns.
• Faster rehabilitation: Shorter surgery times and fewer soft tissue injuries mean a faster return to sports.
• Lower risk of dislocation: The modern design allows for more stable joint guidance.

Long-term studies and success rates

Studies show that short-stem prostheses deliver good long-term results in active patients. The loosening rate is low and revision surgery is simpler. However, specific studies regarding kitesurfing are lacking.

Foil kitesurfing: A gentle alternative for people with artificial hip joints

Introduction to foil kitesurfing

In foil kitesurfing, the board glides on a hydrofoil that functions like a wing underwater. This minimizes drag and vibration.

Advantages regarding impact load

Foil kitesurfing produces smoother movements. Landings and wave impacts are significantly softer, which protects the hip prosthesis.

User reviews and recommendations

Some kitesurfers with hip replacements report that they can surf more smoothly and with greater control using a foil. This offers an interesting alternative, especially after hip surgery.

Training and rehabilitation programs

Preparing for kitesurfing after surgery

Physiotherapy and muscle building are essential. Particular attention should be paid to core and leg strength, as well as balance.

Specific exercises to strengthen the hips

• Leg raise
• Leg press with light load
• Balance exercises on a wobble board

Role of physiotherapy

An experienced physiotherapist accompanies the rehabilitation, adapts the exercises and ensures proper load control.

Risks of kitesurfing with a hip prosthesis

🚨 Periprosthetic fracture – when the bone breaks

A significant risk when kitesurfing with a hip replacement is the so-called periprosthetic fracture – a break in the bone directly at the prosthesis anchorage. Falls with high impact energy, such as those resulting from botched landings after jumps, can cause such fractures.

Causes and risk factors

• Hard landings: Jumps and uncontrolled falls put enormous strain on the bones.
• Osteoporosis: Weakened bones increase the risk of fractures.
• Long prosthetic stems: They increase the risk of leverage effects in the bone.

👉 Short stem prostheses significantly reduce this risk, as they put less strain on the bone.

🔧 Dislocation – when the hip joint dislocates

Another risk is dislocation – the displacement of the artificial hip joint. Rotational movements and abrupt changes of direction can be particularly likely to cause dislocation.

Dangerous movements:

• Hyperextension of the hip: For example, when "tweaking" a jump.
• Internal rotation: When the leg is twisted inwards.
• Sudden shear forces: e.g., during falls or gusts of wind.

👉 Tip: Modern hip prostheses with a larger head and short stem design significantly reduce the risk of dislocation.

🌊 Risk of falls and injuries in the water

Kitesurfing remains a demanding sport – even with a prosthesis. Other dangers include:

• Crashes in shallow water: Hard impacts put stress on joints and bones.
• Twist injuries: Twisting motions in the water can damage muscles and tendons.

Equipment recommendations for kitesurfers with a hip prosthesis

• Seat trapeze : Relieves pressure on the hips
• Softboards : Absorb shocks
• Helmet and impact vest : Additional protection

Destinations and spots for kitesurfers with special needs (hip replacement)

• Shallow spots with little wave action : Ideal for getting back into the sport
• On-site safety infrastructure : lifeboat and medical supplies

Is windsurfing possible with a hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty)?

Windsurfing with a hip replacement: Options and precautions

Windsurfing is also a dynamic sport that requires balance, strength, and flexibility. For people with a hip replacement, the question arises whether and how they can continue to participate. Again, thanks to modern medical advances and individualized rehabilitation, many are able to get back on their boards. However, several aspects should also be considered:

• Training adjustment: A targeted strengthening program to improve the surrounding muscles is essential to stabilize the artificial joint.
• Gentle techniques: Avoid jumping and abrupt movements that could put excessive strain on the joint.

Individual consultation: Close coordination with orthopedists and physiotherapists helps to optimize the return to work

Björn Dunkerbeck: A role model for windsurfers with a hip prosthesis

An impressive, high-profile example is windsurfing legend Björn Dunkerbeck. The 42-time world champion underwent hip surgery in March 2024 and returned to the water remarkably quickly. Just eight weeks after the operation, he was back on his board and reached speeds of up to 87 km/h at the Lüderitz Speed ​​Challenge in Namibia. Dunkerbeck's experience shows that with a positive attitude, consistent rehabilitation, and the right medical team, top athletic performance is possible even after hip surgery

His example motivates many not to give up on sport despite health challenges and to find individually tailored ways to remain active.

Conclusion: Surfing with a hip replacement – ​​doable with the right strategy

Surfing with a hip replacement isn't an illusion – it's generally possible, but not without risk! With the right prosthesis, careful preparation, and adapted technique, many kitesurfers can rediscover their passion, at least with reduced intensity. Short-stem prostheses, in particular, offer advantages for athletically active patients. For those seeking a gentler introduction, foil kitesurfing offers an interesting alternative. It's crucial to assess individual needs to determine what's possible, as no two artificial joints are alike.