Anticipated healing course after hip replacement surgery: Understanding the process
Hip Replacement Recovery Guide
Getting back on your feet after a hip replacement doesn't have to be a daunting task. Follow this informative breakdown to understand the timeline, best practices, and tips for a speedy recovery.
Prepping for the Big Day
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), most individuals can manage daily life and light activities independently within three to six weeks of surgery. To ensure a smooth recovery, start preparing your body weeks before the operation.
- Engage in discussions with your doctor about the procedure, expectations, and what to anticipate post-surgery
- Practice leg, core, and upper body exercises in the weeks leading up to the surgery to strengthen your body for the recovery
- Maintain a moderate weight to reduce the risk of complications during surgery
- Consider quitting or limiting smoking
- Line up help from friends or family for daily tasks for a week or two following your return home
- Prepare meals in advance to streamline things at home
- Make adjustments around the house, such as installing a raised toilet seat, safety bars, and acquiring crutches or a walker to ensure accessibility
The First Few Days Post-Op
Following a partial or total hip replacement, you can expect to spend one to two days in the hospital, although some may go home on the same day.
In the days post-surgery, your medical team will administer pain relievers, including opioids, local anesthetic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen to manage pain. The incision will be stapled or stitched, and your medical team will discuss the process for wound care during recovery.
You will be encouraged to get up and move as soon as possible after surgery. Walking short distances with assistance is typically achievable on the same day of the operation, despite initial discomfort or uneasiness. A physical therapist will teach you how to exercise the affected leg to strengthen the new hip and instruct you on which activities to avoid.
Life at Home
Your recovery may necessitate assistance with daily tasks for several weeks, or you may need to stay in a rehabilitation facility. You can expect some pain and discomfort for a few weeks, so be sure to continue taking any prescribed medications.
A physical therapist or home health aide may visit to check in and assess your progress, or you may be expected to perform exercises at home as recommended by your physical therapist. Daily exercises will aid in speeding recovery, enhancing flexibility and strengthening the new joint.
Keep the surgery incision wound clean and dry until your doctor removes the stitches or staples.
The First Two Weeks
By the 10- to 14-day mark post-surgery, you should no longer have stitches. Pain and swelling may lessen, but progress may vary from person to person. Some individuals may find moving around more easily without aid, while others may still require a cane or walker for support.
Beyond Two Weeks
Within three to six weeks, many individuals can generally resume light activities of daily living, such as self-care and light chores. Some may feel ready to return to work after six weeks, while others may need a few more weeks to regain their comfort level. After six to eight weeks, most can safely have sexual activity again.
Follow your physical therapist's recommendations for continuing physical therapy, as it's essential for the long-term success of your hip replacement. Around two months post-surgery is a reasonable timeframe to discuss resuming additional exercise, like swimming and walking, with your doctor.
Beyond Three Months
After three months, you may be able to resume daily activities. Your doctor may recommend scaling back or ending physical therapy at this point, depending on your progress. By now, you may be ready to dabble in low-impact sports.
Recovery timelines can differ, so it's crucial to communicate with your doctor about your recovery and discuss any lingering concerns or questions.
Tips for Improving Recovery
To enhance your hip replacement recovery, follow these suggestions:
- Follow your physical therapist's instructions for exercise routines
- Engage in gentle exercises like daily walking
- Sit in a reclining position whenever possible
- Apply a cold compress to help reduce swelling
- Take your prescription medications as directed
- Utilize walking aids like crutches if necessary
- Avoid sitting still for extended periods, crossing your legs, or bending your hip beyond 90 degrees
- Limit or stay away from intense exercise, jumping, or quick moves for a few months to prevent complications
- Be cautious when moving or lifting heavy objects
Recovery for Older vs. Younger Populations
Modern hip replacement implants have been yielding improved outcomes and longer survival rates in younger populations, making the procedure more accessible for a broader age range.
Recovery among older individuals may be more challenging due to underlying health conditions, and they may require permanent assistance. Older adults are also more likely to suffer falls, which can result in additional surgeries, so it's essential to use walking aids, such as canes, until they are stable.
Hip Resurfacing Recovery
In hip resurfacing, the surgeon trims and caps the femoral head with a smooth metal cover instead of removing it. The damaged cartilage and bone inside the socket are replaced with a metal shell. The recovery timeline for hip resurfacing is similar to traditional hip replacement surgery, with most individuals going home within one to four days after the procedure.
• 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
Early on, you may need a walking aid like a walker, cane, or crutches. You may experience some pain and discomfort for several weeks post-surgery, with a doctor prescribing NSAIDs or opioids for severe pain. Physical therapy after surgery is crucial, with individuals resuming their regular activities around the six-week mark.
Hip Replacement Surgery Outlook
Recovery from hip replacement surgery comes with several benefits: less pain, improved mobility, a better quality of life, and enhancements in daily activities. However, there may be some long-term effects, such as continued numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site.
- Metal detectors, such as those at airports, may pick up on your hip replacement. Let relevant staff know before passing through, or bring a note from your doctor if necessary.
- High-impact sports may increase the risk of falls or injuries; discuss your sports interests with your doctor to find suitable alternatives.
- Certain dental procedures require antibiotics; inform your dental surgeon about your hip replacement beforehand.
- Sexual activity is possible around six weeks post-surgery, but choose safe positions and use supportive cushions for added comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to walk again after a hip replacement?
Typically, you can walk short distances with assistance on the same day as the surgery, and you'll progress to walking longer distances in the following weeks.
• 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
How long does bed rest last after hip replacement surgery?
You should start moving as soon as possible after hip replacement surgery and should not be required to stay in bed.
What age do they stop doing hip replacements?
There is no age limit on hip replacements, as long as your overall health and mobility are sound.
How long do hip implants or replacements last?
A modern artificial hip replacement should last for at least 15 years, with a 2019 review of over 200,000 people with hip replacements showing a hip replacement can last for 15 years in around 58% of cases.
- Due to the rise in obesity rates, it's crucial to maintain a moderate weight before hip replacement surgery to reduce the risk of complications
- Quitting or limiting smoking can also help ensure a smoother recovery process, as smoking can hinder wound healing and increase the risk of complications
- In some cases, individuals with chronic conditions like colitis, ulcerative colitis, Alzheimer's, COPD, cancer, cardiovascular health issues, or mental health conditions may require closer monitoring or additional therapies and treatments during the recovery period
- Engaging in physical therapy, focusing on health and wellness, fitness and exercise, and taking part in therapies and treatments can help improve recovery and long-term outcomes following a hip replacement
- Aging may impact the recovery process, with older individuals needing more time to recover due to possible underlying health conditions and an increased risk of falls
- For those with Alzheimer's, it may be important to enlist the help of a caregiver during the recovery period to ensure safety and provide support as needed
- As part of the aging process, it's essential to focus on cardiovascular health and mental health to maintain a smooth recovery and overall well-being.
