Expected recuperation timeline for hip replacement: Insights on the healing process
Hip replacement surgery ain't no walk in the park, but it's a common procedure that can drastically improve quality of life for those dealing with hip pain and mobility issues. So, here's the lowdown on what to expect during recovery.
Before the Operation
Most folks can get back to their daily routine and light activities within 3 to 6 weeks post-surgery, but there are a few key steps to take before the big day to ensure a smoother recovery.
- Discuss the procedure with your doc and research what to expect during and after the operation.
- Work on leg, core, and upper body strength leading up to the surgery. Ask your doctor for exercises to help.
- Maintain a moderate weight, as this can reduce the risk of complications during surgery.
- Consider quitting smoking to improve healing time.
- Arrange help with daily tasks for the week or two following your return home after the surgery. Prep meals in advance, too.
- Make your home more convenient for recovery, with a raised toilet seat, safety bars in the bathroom, a walker or crutches, and other necessary accessories.
After the Operation: The First Few Days
Following the operation, you might spend 1 to 2 days in the hospital—though some people can go home on the same day. Analysis from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) suggests that people may get up and move around as soon as possible after surgery, with a physiotherapist showing them exercises to help strengthen the hip and avoid damage to the new joint.
Doctors will also be there to administer pain medication during those initial moments of discomfort. Some options include opioids, local anesthetic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen. Your incision will be stapled or stitched and will require care at home for about 2 weeks.
Returning Home
You may need assistance with daily activities for several weeks after returning home. It's important to take it easy and follow your doctor's instructions for pain management and physiotherapy exercises. Be prepared for some pain and discomfort for a few weeks, and continue taking any prescription medications as directed.
If required, a home health aide, nurse, or physical therapist may check in to help with your recovery.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery is a gradual process, with each person's experience unique. Here's a general timeline to help you understand the steps:
- By 10 to 14 days, the stitches should be removed, and pain and swelling may start to decrease.
- Many people can resume light activities of daily living around the 3 to 6-week mark, Feeling stronger, more stable, and comfortable putting more weight on their leg.
- After 6 weeks, some folks may feel ready to return to work, and after 6 to 8 weeks, they may safely have sex again.
- Throughout this time, regular physiotherapy is essential, for at least two months after surgery.
- By the 3-month mark, most people may be able to resume daily activities.
- Always check in with your doctor for evaluations of your progress and to discuss the best types of physical therapy for your needs.
Post-Recovery Tips
To aid recovery, try:
- following your physical therapist's instructions for exercises
- gentle exercises, such as daily walking
- sitting in a reclining position
- using a cold compress to reduce swelling
- taking any prescription medications as your doctor instructs
- using walking aids, such as crutches, if needed
Avoid activities like sitting still for long periods, crossing the legs at the knee, bending the hip more than 90 degrees, bending down to touch your feet or ankles, sitting in low chairs, intense exercise, and moving or lifting heavy objects.
Older vs Younger People
Hip replacements were initially thought to be riskier for those under 20 due to unfavorable outcomes. However, modern implants have led to improved outcomes and survival rates in younger populations.
Recovery may be more challenging for older adults, as they may already have compromised mobility. They may benefit from using a walker, crutches, or a walking stick until they're more stable.
If you're over 65, fells can pose a significant risk, so try to avoid them where possible. Comorbid illnesses can also impact recovery in older adults.
• 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
Hip Resurfacing Recovery
In hip resurfacing, the femoral head is typically trimmed and capped with a smooth metal cover instead of being removed, while the inside of the socket is replaced with a metal shell. Most people can go home in 1 to 4 days after hip resurfacing surgery. They can begin putting weight on their leg immediately afterward, with the help of a walking aid like a walker, cane, or crutches for the first few days or weeks.
People may experience some pain and discomfort for several weeks after surgery, with a doctor prescribing NSAIDs or opioids for more significant pain. A doctor may also recommend physical therapy after surgery and will suggest exercises to help maintain range of motion and restore strength. Folks can typically resume their regular activities around 6 weeks after surgery.
Hip Replacement Surgery Outlook
• 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
After hip replacement surgery, you can expect:
- Reduced pain
- Improved mobility
- A better quality of life
- Improvements in daily activities
Long-term effects and restrictions may include some numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site, and hip replacements may affect aspects of your life such as metal detectors, high-impact sports, dental procedures, and sexual activity.
Frequently asked questions about hip replacements are covered in the FAQ section below.
- Research and understand predictive factors for complications in hip replacement surgery, such as age, obesity, and cardiovascular health.
- Implement workplace-wellness programs to manage and prevent chronic diseases like COPD, Alzheimer's, ulcerative colitis, and other respiratory and mental health conditions.
- Promote fitness-and-exercise routines, proper nutrition, and skin-care practices as part of a comprehensive health-and-wellness strategy, especially in the elderly population to manage weight management and cardiovascular health.
- Develop therapies-and-treatments for aging-related medical-conditions, such as osteoarthritis and dementia, to improve the quality of life for the elderly.
- Develop predictive models to determine optimal timing for early intervention and treatments for chronic diseases like cancer and obesity.
- Encourage a smoke-free environment in the workplace and provide resources for quitting smoking to accelerate healing time and promote overall well-being.
- Offer mental-health support services, such as stress management and counseling, to promote overall health and wellness in the workplace.
- Advocate for the implementation of scientific research and technological advancements to improve hip replacement surgery outcomes and recovery timelines.
- Encourage the use of aqua therapy for a low-impact, weight-bearing exercise to facilitate faster recovery and improve joint mobility.
- Educate employees about the importance of regular medical check-ups to identify and treat conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol before they become major health concerns.
