Jarome Iginla battles neurological issues linked to cobalt hip replacement
Jarome Iginla revealed on Tuesday that he is battling neurological health issues that he believes may stem from metal toxins interacting with a cobalt hip replacement. Speaking with Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, the 49-year-old said he has spent more than a year undergoing medical tests and consultations.
The former Flames player underwent hip replacement surgery a few years after concluding a 20-year NHL career that ended in 2018. Complications followed the procedure, requiring medications that affected his energy levels, weight, and speech. Certain hip prostheses can gradually shed metallic particles over time, creating potential complications if those substances enter the circulatory system.
Iginla also dealt with high mercury levels, and doctors are currently examining whether those readings connect to the cobalt reaction. Public concern grew after a recent video clip from the Amazon Prime docuseries Hometown Giants—which follows the WHL’s Vancouver Giants and features his youngest son, Joe—showed him speaking with a noticeably altered voice and experiencing weight loss compared to prior public appearances.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Iginla reported signs of progress in his recovery. “I need more time to figure it all out, but I’m still hopeful that I will recover fully,” Iginla told Sportsnet. “Things are slowly getting under control, thanks be to God.”
Jarome Iginla Sets Franchise Records During Calgary Career
Selected 11th-overall in the 1995 NHL Draft, Iginla spent seasons in Calgary. He holds franchise records for games played (1,219), goals (525), and points (1,095). Among his notable achievements are guiding the Flames to Game 7 of the 2004 Stanley Cup Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning, claiming two Olympic gold medals alongside a world championship with Canada, and securing victories at the World Cup of Hockey and the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.
Since retiring, Iginla has focused on coaching and supporting his children’s hockey careers. His son, Tij, was selected sixth overall by the Utah Mammoth in the 2024 NHL Draft, while his daughter Jade was drafted by PWHL Hamilton. His youngest son, Joe, was drafted by the Flames during the summer. Iginla returned to the Calgary organization in 2023 as a special advisor to general manager Craig Conroy.
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