Anticipated recovery phases for hip replacement surgery: Insights on post-operative progress
Hip replacement surgery isn't a walk in the park, but it's a walk worth taking for many people seeking relief from hip pain. Here's the lowdown on what to expect during the recovery process.
Before surgery, some prep work is crucial. Most individuals can butt heads with their day-to-day tasks and light activities independently within 3 to 6 weeks post-surgery. But the steps you take before the big day can heavily influence your healing timeline.
Get your body ready for a partial or total hip replacement several weeks prior to the operation. This reduces the risk of complications and speeds up recovery. To prepare, you can:
- talks with your doc and healthcare team, and research the ins and outs of the surgery
- ask your doc about exercises to strengthen your legs, core, and upper body beforehand
- try to stay trim to lower the risk of complications
- cut back or quit smoking
- line up someone to lend a hand with chores for a week or two after you return home post-surgery
- cook up meals ahead of time for a smooth transition once you're back home
- make your home accessible with items like a raised toilet seat, safety bars in the bathroom, and mobility aids like a walker or crutches.
Post-op, you might spend 1 to 2 days in the hospital. Some folks even go home the same day as the surgery.
In the days following, the doc will probably prescribe medications to ease the pain and swelling. Don't be surprised if they dish out opioids, local anesthetic, NSAIDs, or acetaminophen. The doc will likely staple or stitch close the incision for about 2 weeks. You might have to take care of the wound at home, so ask the medical team about what's what.
Healthcare peeps will help you get moving as soon as possible after the surgery. It might be a bumpy road for the first walk or two, as it could feel uncomfortable or ouchy. A physical therapist may coach you on exercises for the leg to bolster the hip and advise you on activities to steer clear of. They'll likely teach you how to sit and bend in a way that won't harm the new hip.
Heading home, you may require support with everyday tasks for a few weeks. You might experience some aches and discomfort for a couple of weeks, so keep taking your meds.
You might pencil in physical therapy or need to do exercises at home that your physical therapist suggests. Daily exercises will help speed recovery and boost flexibility and muscle strength in your new joint. If necessary, a home health aide, nurse, or physical therapist might pop by to lend a hand with recovery.
By 10 to 14 days, your stitches should be history, and pain and swelling might begin to subside (although it might take longer for some). You might feel more mobile without assistance, and you might still need a cane or walker, especially during the early days of recovery.
In the 3-6 week range, many folks can generally return to their daily activities. They might feel stronger, steadier, and ready to put more weight on their leg. They might also be able to handle some basic self-care and light chores. Some folks may be back at work after 6 weeks, but everyone heals differently. After 6 to 8 weeks, you'll probably be able to get jiggy with sex again.
• 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
Keep up with physical therapy as your PT recommends, for at least 2 months post-surgery. Chat with your doc about when it's safe to take on additional exercises, like swimming and walking.
After 3 months, you might be ready to tackle daily activities once more. Check with your doc about when it's safe to dial back or stop physical therapy, and if you can take on low-impact sports.
• 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
Recovery tales can vary, so keep up with your doctor for an evaluation of your progress and to discuss the types of physical therapy that'll help you thrive the most.
And don't forget, recovery is a team effort—so don't go it alone! Ask friends, fam, or caregivers for help whenever you need it. You got this!
- The type of exercises prescribed by your doctor before hip replacement surgery can help strengthen your legs, core, and upper body, aiding in a smoother recovery.
- Acknowledging the risks of complications associated with chronic diseases such as obesity, ulcerative colitis, COPD, chronic kidney disease, and Alzheimer's while maintaining a healthy weight can lead to a more successful surgery and recovery.
- Seeking the advice of your doctor on the use of CBD for pain management in the context of medical conditions like arthritis, aging, and mental health may be beneficial.
- Tailoring your home environment to be accessible, with items like walkers, crutches, raised toilet seats, and safety bars, can significantly ease the recovery process after hip replacement surgery.
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- Engaging in fitness and exercise activities during recovery from hip replacement surgery, under the supervision of a physical therapist, can helps speed up the recovery process and promote overall health and well-being.
- Preparing meals ahead of time and lining up assistance for chores during the initial recovery phase following hip replacement surgery can make the transition back home less stressful and more manageable.
- As the recovery process from hip replacement surgery progresses, incorporating gentle exercises like walking and daily flexibility exercises, as recommended by your physical therapist, can boost your chances of a full and healthy recovery.
