Expected recovery period after hip replacement surgery: Insights and guidelines
People undergoing hip replacement surgery can expect varied recovery times, though most are capable of resuming light activities within three to six weeks post-surgery. Prior to the surgery, individuals should prepare their bodies, consulting their doctors about exercises, maintaining a moderate weight, and quitting smoking.
Preparation for hip replacement surgery, whether partial or total, is advisable weeks before the procedure. This entails discussing the surgery with the healthcare team, researching what to expect during and after the procedure, performing strengthening exercises, maintaining a moderate weight, quitting smoking, organizing help for daily tasks, preparing meals in advance, and making home modifications for accessibility.
Immediately following surgery, stay in the hospital for one to two days, with some patients going home on the same day. Doctors typically administer pain relievers, which may include opioids, local anesthetics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen. Staples or stitches close the incision for about two weeks, requiring wound care at home. Healthcare professionals encourage people to get up and move around as soon as possible, with some walking short distances with assistance on the day of the operation.
Upon returning home, individuals may require assistance with daily tasks for several weeks or may need to stay in a rehabilitation facility. Pain and discomfort persist for a few weeks, necessitating continued prescription medication intake. Physical therapy is recommended, with daily exercises to speed recovery, improve flexibility, and reinforce strength in the new joint. In some cases, a home health aide, nurse, or physical therapist may check in and assist with recovery.
By 10 to 14 days after surgery, stitches are typically removed. Pain and swelling begin to subside, though the pace may vary among individuals. Those who previously required a cane or walker before surgery may still need assistance during this early recovery period. Beyond 3 to 6 weeks, most can resume light activities of daily living, feeling stronger, more stable, and comfortable putting more weight on their leg. Many individuals return to work after six weeks, while some may safely have sex again after six to eight weeks.
Physical therapy is crucial for at least two months after surgery to improve joint mobility and reinforce strength. Individuals should consult their doctors about safe exercise options beyond therapy, such as swimming and walking. At the three-month mark, people may resume daily activities. They should continually coordinate with their doctors to evaluate progress and determine the most beneficial physical therapy.
• follow physical therapy exercises as a physical therapist instructs• try other gentle exercises, such as daily walking• sit in a reclining position• use a cold compress to reduce swelling• take any prescription medications as a doctor instructs• use walking aids, such as crutches, if necessary
People of all ages can undergo hip replacement surgery, although underlying health conditions and mobility factors are considered. Older adults may face additional challenges as they already have compromised mobility and may be prone to comorbid illnesses like heart and lung disease, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure. Taking precautions, such as using a walker, crutches, or a walking stick, can help minimize risks, as can regular check-ups with a doctor for diagnostics and treatments.
• sitting still for long periods• crossing the legs at the knee• bending the hip more than 90 degrees• bending down to touch the feet or ankles• sitting in low chairs• intense exercise, which may involve jumping or sudden turns• moving or lifting heavy objects
In hip resurfacing, the femoral head is trimmed, capped with a metal cover, while the damaged cartilage and bone within the socket are replaced with a metal shell. Recovery follows a similar timeline, with most patients returning home within one to four days after surgery. Gradually increasing mobility and strength through physical therapy is necessary, and individuals may resume their regular activities around six weeks post-resurfacing.
Expect less pain, improved mobility, and a better quality of life following hip replacement surgery. However, long-term effects may include continued numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site, as well as potential interference with airport security, sports participation, dental procedures, and sexual activity. Always consult with healthcare providers before resuming strenuous activities and taking appropriate precautions.
Preparation for hip replacement surgery involves a combination of physical examination, enhancing fitness and exercise levels, maintaining a moderate weight, and quitting smoking.
Before and during the surgery, discuss with your healthcare team, research about the surgery, perform strengthening exercises, and organize help for daily tasks and meal preparations.
Upon returning home, staples or stitches close the incision for about two weeks, requiring wound care and sometimes hospitalization. Recovery periods vary, but most can resume light activities within three to six weeks.
Physical therapy is crucial for at least two months post-surgery to improve joint mobility and reinforce strength. Consult doctors for safe exercise options beyond therapy.
In some cases, chronic health conditions like COPD, obesity, colitis, chronic kidney disease, or Alzheimer's may impact hip replacement recovery. Incorporate medical-conditions and chronic-diseases management into the healing process.
Integrate nutrition into your recovery, especially high-quality proteins and omega-3s for tissue repair and pain reduction. Consider supplements like CBD for pain management.
Avoid sitting still for long periods, crossing your legs at the knee, bending the hip more than 90 degrees, bending down to touch your feet or ankles, sitting in low chairs, and intense exercise.
Long-term effects of hip replacement surgery may include numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site and interference with airport security, sports participation, dental procedures, and sexual activity. Consult healthcare providers regarding resuming strenuous activities.
