I have RA and the inflammation in my Left hip caused synovial fluid to get out of control. Very painful, swollen and no matter what my rheumatologist or I tried (massage, physio, steroids, cortiosone shots, biologics, anti inflammatories etc) worked. Within months, my cartilage had been worn away and the high steroid use to try and and get it under control had caused bone death (AVN). By this stage I was in excruciating pain, could not move without a cane, and basically was at my wits end. My Rheumatologist then sent me to an OS who was aghast to see the results of my MRI & xrays and performed THR weeks later. He has warned that RA causing damage in my other hip and knees may mean more replacements in my future and has warned me to be more proactive in seeking this.Hope this helps. I am 11 days into recovery from surgery and am grateful for the opportunity for this life changing surgery.