Anticipated Recovery Milestones Following Hip Replacement Surgery: Insights on the Process
Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery: A Comprehensive Guide
Recovery time after a hip replacement surgery can differ from person to person. Most people can carry out light activities within three to six weeks post-surgery. However, certain activities, such as sex, strenuous exercise, and work, may need to be avoided during the initial recovery period. Doctors may prescribe pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate discomfort as patients heal at home.
Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery
As per the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), most individuals can return to daily living and light activities independently within three to six weeks following surgery. However, preparation in the weeks leading up to surgery can significantly impact the total recovery timeline.
Before undergoing a partial or total hip replacement, patients should prepare their bodies by undertaking a series of steps to minimize complications and speed up recovery. The preparation process is the same for both surgery types, with similar outcomes expected.
Individuals can prepare for surgery in the following ways:
- Discuss the surgery with their doctor and healthcare team, and research what to expect during and after the procedure.
- Ask their doctor about exercises to strengthen their legs, core, and upper body before surgery.
- Maintain a moderate weight to help reduce the risk of complications during surgery.
- Try to limit or stop smoking before surgery.
- Arrange for assistance with daily activities for the week or two following their return home after surgery.
- Prepare meals in advance for greater ease after returning home.
- Prepare the home for accessibility and convenience, including items like a raised toilet seat, safety bars in the bathroom, a walker or crutches.
First Few Days after Surgery
Following a partial or total hip replacement, patients may remain in the hospital for one to two days. Some patients may go home on the same day as their surgery.
In the days after surgery, doctors usually administer pain relievers, including opioids, local anesthetics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen. The incision may be stapled or stitched closed for approximately two weeks, which may require wound care at home.
Healthcare professionals will encourage patients to get up and move around as soon as possible after surgery. With assistance, patients may be able to walk short distances on the same day as the operation, although initial movement may feel painful or uncomfortable.
A physical therapist may demonstrate exercises to strengthen the leg, improve hip function, and provide guidance on which activities to avoid. They may also show patients how to sit and bend to prevent damaging the new hip.
Returning Home after Hip Replacement
For several weeks following their return home, patients may require assistance with daily tasks or may need to stay in a rehabilitation facility. Patients may experience some pain and discomfort for a few weeks and should continue taking any prescription medications.
During recovery, patients may attend physical therapy or need to perform exercises at home that their physical therapist recommends. Daily exercises will help expedite recovery, enhance flexibility, and strengthen the new joint.
If necessary, a home health aide, nurse, or physical therapist may check in and provide assistance during recovery.
Patients should keep the surgery incision wound dry until a doctor removes the stitches or staples.
Hip Replacement Recovery at 10 to 14 Days
By 10 to 14 days after surgery, patients should no longer have their stitches. Pain and swelling may begin to subside, although this may take longer for some individuals.
Activity levels at this stage may vary from person to person. Some patients may be able to move about more easily without aid.
Patients who previously required a cane or walker before surgery may still need assistance during this early recovery period.
Hip Replacement Recovery Beyond 2 Weeks
Within three to six weeks, many people can generally resume light activities of daily living. They may feel stronger, more stable, and more comfortable putting weight on their leg. They may also be able to resume some basic self-care and light chores.
Many patients feel ready to return to work after six weeks, but this may vary. After six to eight weeks, patients may be able to safely have sex again.
Patients should continue physical therapy as their physical therapist recommends, for at least two months after surgery. They can speak with their doctor about when it is safe to do additional exercise, such as swimming and walking.
Hip Replacement Recovery Beyond 3 Months
After three months, patients may be able to resume daily activities. They should consult their doctor about when to reduce or stop physical therapy. By this time, patients may be able to participate in low-impact sports.
Recovery can vary, and patients should consult their doctor for an evaluation of their progress and to discuss the types of physical therapy that will best benefit them.
Tips to Aid Recovery
Patients can try the following tips to improve their hip replacement recovery:
- Follow physical therapy exercises as a physical therapist instructs.
- Engage in 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.
Recovery in Older vs. Younger People
Traditionally, experts would not recommend hip replacements for people under 20 years old due to unfavorable outcomes. However, some patients under 20 may require a total hip replacement due to a condition called osteonecrosis of the femoral head, which can lead to a favorable outlook, providing pain relief and restored function.
In people younger than 50, recovery is generally free of complications, but underlying health issues may adversely affect this. In older adults, avoiding falls should be a priority, as falls could necessitate additional surgery. Recovery may be more challenging for older adults as they may already have compromised mobility and may need permanent assistance.
Consult a doctor for diagnostic tests and treatments for conditions such as heart and lung disease, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure, which may increase the risk of complications in older adults.
Hip Resurfacing Recovery
• 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 femoral head is trimmed and capped with a smooth metal cover instead of being removed, while the damaged cartilage and bone inside the socket are replaced with a metal shell. Patients can typically go home one to four days after hip resurfacing surgery, and they may begin putting weight on their leg immediately after surgery, but they may need a walking aid for the first few days or weeks.
Patients may experience pain and discomfort for several weeks after surgery, and a doctor may prescribe NSAIDs or opioids for more severe pain. Physical therapy will also be recommended after surgery, and patients will be advised on exercises to help maintain range of motion and restore strength.
Hip Replacement Surgery Outlook
Patients can expect numerous benefits from hip replacement surgery, including less pain, improved mobility, better quality of life, and enhanced performance in daily activities. However, there may be some long-term effects and restrictions after hip replacement surgery and recovery. Patients may continue to experience some numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site.
Hip replacements may also impact various aspects of a person's life, such as metal detectors, high-impact sports, dental procedures, and sexual activity. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing these aspects.
FAQs
- How long will it take to walk again after a hip replacement?Some patients may walk short distances with assistance on the same day as the surgery. Over the following weeks, they will typically be able to walk longer distances.
- How long does bed rest last after hip replacement surgery?Patients should start walking as soon as possible after hip replacement surgery. While they should rest and only perform gentle movements, a person will not need to stay in bed.
- What age do they stop doing hip replacements?There is no age limit on hip replacements. Instead, doctors consider factors such as a person's overall health and mobility.
- How long do hip implants or replacements last?A modern artificial hip replacement should last for at least 15 years. A study of over 200,000 individuals with hip replacements suggests that patients can expect a hip replacement to last for 58% of cases.
• 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
Summary
Hip replacement and resurfacing surgeries have similar outcomes and high success rates. Patients can begin recovery the same day as the surgery and will typically be able to walk a short distance with assistance soon afterward. Physical therapy in the hospital and home can help build strength and flexibility, speeding recovery. Many patients can return to light activities within about six weeks, and life as usual after about three months.
- Discussing the surgery with doctors and researching expectations is crucial before a hip replacement, whether partial or total.
- Exercises to strengthen leg, core, and upper body could be recommended by doctors before surgery to prepare for recovery.
- Maintaining a moderate weight can help reduce the risk of complications during surgery and speed up recovery.
- Quitting smoking before surgery can minimize complications and expedite recovery.
- Arrangements for assistance with daily activities after returning home should be made in advance.
- Preparing meals in advance can provide greater ease after surgery.
- Making home modifications, such as installing a raised toilet seat and safety bars in the bathroom, can help with accessibility and convenience during recovery.
- Hip replacement or resurfacing patients may require assistance with daily tasks for several weeks following their return home.
- Seeking advice from healthcare providers on managing factors such as metal detectors, high-impact sports, and sexual activity is essential.
