Your doctor may discuss hip replacement surgery when non-surgical treatments, such as medication and physical therapy fail to provide adequate relief. Hip replacement surgery can eliminate pain, restore joint function, and enable you to enjoy life again, but there are many essential steps on the road to recovery.
If you choose to have hip replacement surgery, knowing what to expect after you have your new hip can aid in the recovery process, which can last up to a year. Our orthopedic surgeons at LA Orthopaedic Specialists, located in Los Angeles, have extensive experience performing hip replacement surgery. If hip replacement is the best option for you, our team will create an individualized plan to relieve your pain and restore function.
Read on to learn about the typical recovery after hip replacement surgery.
Post-surgery
Recovery starts in the hospital. Within a day following hip replacement surgery, you can expect to perform some basic movements such as standing and walking with assistance.
As you get stronger, a physical therapist will work with you to perform exercises that help develop mobility and strength.
Heading home
Typically, you’ll leave the hospital when you can do the following:
- Get in and out of bed without assistance
- Walk using a walker or crutches
- Go up and down two or three stairs
- Perform certain exercises
You’ll have a smooth transition from hospital to home if you prepare for your recovery needs before surgery.
Temporarily move your sleeping area to avoid stairs, and arrange a comfortable sitting area. Assistive devices, such as a shower chair and raised toilet seat can make your home safe and functional.
Limitations
It’s important to avoid doing too much too soon after hip replacement surgery. Follow our team’s instructions carefully regarding activities as you recover from hip replacement surgery.
It typically takes up to six weeks before you can put full weight on your hip. That means you’ll have some initial limitations. As you recover you can return to activities that you enjoy, such as golfing, biking, and gardening, but it’s essential that you don’t rush your recovery.
Getting back to life after hip replacement surgery
Many people utilize physical therapy for at least eight weeks after a hip replacement. If your muscles start hurting during physical activity, cut back but continue staying active.
Progress will vary, but you can expect to feel back to normal after about 12 weeks. Since your hip is still healing, it’s crucial to continue following your recovery instructions even as you start to feel better. Continue any physical therapy exercises to strengthen your hip muscles so they can support your artificial hip.
Depending on your situation, our team may recommend some long-term limitations. Running is one activity our team may recommend avoiding. While your hip is strong and durable after hip replacement, it’s not meant for marathon running. Discuss any potential limitations with our team.
To learn more about what to expect after hip replacement surgery, call our Los Angeles office to schedule a consultation with one of our providers or book an appointment online today.