Recovering from a hip replacement operation: Understanding the recovery process
People undergoing hip replacement surgery can anticipate recovery times varying between individuals, however most people can resume light activities within three to six weeks post-surgery.
In the initial stages of recovery, certain activities such as sex, intense exercise, and work may need to be avoided during the first few weeks. Doctors may also prescribe pain relief medications to help manage discomfort during home recovery.
Preparation for surgery is crucial to minimize complications and expedite recovery. This entails discussing the procedure with the healthcare team, researching what to expect, partaking in leg, core, and upper body strengthening exercises, maintaining a moderate weight, quitting or reducing smoking, arranging for assistance with daily activities after returning home, and preparing meals ahead of time.
Upon returning home after surgery, help with daily tasks may be required for several weeks or the person may opt for rehabilitation facility care. Pain and discomfort may persist for a few weeks, and it is essential to adhere to any prescribed medications. Physical therapy or home exercises may be required to aid in recovery and improve the flexibility and strength of the new joint.
During the first few days post-surgery, people may remain in the hospital for one to two days, although some may return home on the same day. Doctors will administer pain relievers like opioids, local anesthetic, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen. The incision will be stitched or stapled for approximately two weeks, which may necessitate home wound care. The doctor will encourage the person to start moving as soon as possible, sometimes enabling the patient to walk short distances with assistance on the same day as the operation. A physical therapist may instruct the patient on exercise to strengthen the hip and advise them on activities to avoid.
Throughout the recovery period, it is essential to use supports like a raised toilet seat, safety bars in the bathroom, a walker, or crutches, and follow physical therapy exercises as advised. The incision wound should be kept dry until the stitches or staples are removed, and the person may be required to attend additional appointments with a home health aide, nurse, or physical therapist. At around 10 to 14 days post-surgery, a person should no longer have stitches and pain and swelling may gradually decrease, although this may vary from person to person.
After three to six weeks, individuals can generally resume light activities of daily living, feeling stronger, more stable, and comfortable placing more weight on their recovered leg. Around six weeks post-surgery, many patients may feel ready to return to work, although this is dependent on the nature of their employment. After six to eight weeks, they may safely have sex again. Physical therapy should continue for at least two months post-surgery and may need to be continued indefinitely.
Hip replacement recovery may vary, and individuals should consult with their doctor to discuss their progress and appropriate physical therapy choices. Recovery tips to aid hip replacement recovery involve following physical therapy exercises, engaging in gentle exercises, sitting in a reclining position, using a cold compress to reduce swelling, taking prescribed medications as directed, using walking aids when necessary, and avoiding 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, moving or lifting heavy objects, and sitting in awkward positions.
Recovery outcomes may differ in younger and older people, with traditional recommendations discouraging hip replacements for those under 20 due to unfavorable results. However, modern hip replacement implants are leading to improved outcomes and survival rates in younger populations. In older adults, avoiding falls is essential to prevent the need for additional surgery. Surgery in older adults may have an increased risk of complications due to underlying health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure, so individuals should consult with their doctor to address these conditions before surgery.
In hip resurfacing, the femoral head is trimmed and capped with a metal cover instead of being removed. People may go home one to four days after hip resurfacing surgery and may need the support of a walking aid such as a walker, cane, or crutches for the first few days or weeks. Recovery may involve some pain and discomfort for several weeks after surgery, with a doctor prescribing NSAIDs or opioids for more severe pain. Physical therapy exercises will help maintain range of motion and restore strength, and patients may return to their regular activities around six weeks post-surgery.
Hip replacement surgery outcomes include reduced pain, improved mobility, a better quality of life, and improvements in daily activities. Long-term effects may include continued numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site. Hip replacements may affect aspects of a person's life such as the need for metal detectors at airports, the risk of falls or injury while participating in high-impact sports, the need for antibiotics before certain dental procedures, and the need to take precautions while engaging in sexual activity.
• 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
Patients can expect to start walking again the same day as the surgery and may be able to walk longer distances over the following weeks. Bed rest after hip replacement surgery is not required, with the focus being on gentle movements and starting to walk as soon as possible. There is no age limit on hip replacements, with the decision dependent on an individual's overall health and mobility. A modern artificial hip replacement can last for at least 15 years, with a 2019 review of over 200,000 people with hip replacements suggesting that the hip replacement can last in 58% of cases.
In conclusion, hip replacement and resurfacing surgeries have similar outcomes and high success rates. Recovery begins immediately after surgery, with a focus on physical therapy to build strength and flexibility and promote speedy recovery. Patients can return to light activities within about six weeks and resume their usual routines after around three months, with ongoing exercise and precautions recommended to ensure the longevity of the hip replacement.
• 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
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