Anticipated hip replacement recovery process: Understanding the course of healing
Taking Care After Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement recovery varies from person to person, but most folks can get back to light activities within 3 to 6 weeks post-surgery. However, before and after the procedure, certain steps can be taken to ensure a smoother recovery process.
Before hip replacement surgery, preparing body and mind is essential:
- Discuss the surgery with your doctor and research the procedure details.
- Ask your doctor for exercises to strengthen your legs, core, and upper body in advance.
- Maintain a moderate weight to reduce the risk of complications.
- Consider quitting smoking for a smoother recovery.
- Arrange for help with daily tasks during the first week to two weeks after coming home from the hospital.
- Prepare meals for convenient consumption after returning home.
- Make adjustments to your home to ensure accessibility and convenience, such as installing a raised toilet seat, safety bars in the bathroom, and employing a walker or crutches.
During the first few days after hip replacement surgery, most people remain in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. Doctors typically administer pain relievers like opioids, local anesthetic, NSAIDs, or acetaminophen. The incision site may be stapled or stitched close, which can require wound care at home for 2 weeks. Healthcare professionals will help patients get up and move around as soon as possible after surgery, and physical therapists may demonstrate exercises to strengthen the hip and advise on activities to avoid.
Upon returning home, people may require assistance with daily tasks for several weeks. Pain and discomfort may linger for a few weeks, and patients should continue taking any prescribed medications. Physical therapy or home exercises recommended by a physical therapist will aid in quicker recovery, improving flexibility, and strengthening the new joint. Home health aides, nurses, or physical therapists may check in and assist with recovery if necessary.
After 10 to 14 days, stitches are typically removed, and pain and swelling may start to subside. Activity levels may vary from person to person, and some may need canes or walkers during the early recovery period.
Within 3 to 6 weeks, many people can generally perform light activities of daily living, feeling stronger, more stable, and comfortable putting weight on their leg. They may also be able to resume basic self-care and light chores. Many people can return to work after 6 weeks, and may safely engage in sexual activity 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery. Physical therapy should continue for at least two months after surgery, and people can speak to their doctor regarding additional exercise like swimming and walking.
After three months, a person may be able to perform daily activities, and with the doctor's approval, low-impact sports. Recovery may vary, and visiting the doctor for evaluation of progress is advisable.
• 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 tips include following physical therapy exercises, avoiding sitting still for long periods, crossing legs at the knee, and intense exercise involving jumping or sudden turns. Lowering yourself onto a chair or bed and using cold compresses can help reduce swelling.
Younger people typically experience favorable outcomes from hip replacements, but comorbidities may affect recovery. Older adults may face challenges when recovering due to already compromised mobility, and falls can pose a significant risk, especially if they continue to use low chairs. Using walkers, crutches, or a walking stick until stable and speaking with a doctor for diagnostic tests and treatments for conditions like heart and lung disease can help smooth the recovery process.
• 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
In hip resurfacing, the surgeon trims and caps the femoral head with a metal cover, and the damaged cartilage and bone inside the socket are replaced with a metal shell. Most people can go home between 1 and 4 days post-surgery, and they may begin putting weight on their leg immediately after, equipping a walking aid such as a walker, cane, or crutches for the first few days or weeks. People may experience pain and discomfort for several weeks after surgery, and physical therapy recommendations help maintain range of motion and restore strength.
- Comorbidities such as obesity, ulcerative colitis, Alzheimer's, chronic kidney disease, and COPD might influence hip replacement recovery.
- Science and medical advancements have led to predictive measures for fitting the right AQ (articulating component) during hip resurfacing surgery for better results.
- Due to chronic-diseases, older adults might require additional precautions in hip replacement recovery, like maintaining a moderate weight, quitting smoking, and seeking medical-conditions diagnosis and treatments for heart and lung disease.
- In the post-operative period, physical therapy plays a crucial role in enhancing hip mobility, strength, and joint flexibility through recommended exercises and therapies-and-treatments.
- Hip replacement patients should be aware of certain activities to avoid, including 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, and engaging in intense exercise.
- It's essential to utilize walking aids, like walkers or crutches, and follow physical therapy exercises, take prescription medications as directed, and use cold compresses to aid in recovery and reduce swelling.
- Adopting a health-and-wellness lifestyle, featuring proper diet and exercise, will support a smoother and quicker recovery for those who have undergone hip replacement surgery.
