Anticipated hip replacement recuperation schedule: Insights on the recovery process
Hip replacement surgery ain't no walk in the park, but most folks can resume a semblance of their old routines within a few weeks or months. Here's the skinny on what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.
Before the Big Day
Gearing up for a hip replacement involves some prep work to minimize complications and speed up recovery. Several weeks before surgery, you should:
- Consult with your doc and healthcare team, and educate yourself on the procedure
- Ask your doc about exercises to strengthen your legs, core, and upper body pre-op
- Maintain a moderate weight to reduce the risk of complications
- Consider quitting smoking
- Line up help for daily activities after the operation
- Prepare meals in advance to streamline post-op life
- Make your crib accessible and comfy, like stocking a raised toilet seat, safety bars, and a walker or crutches
Post-Op and the Early Days
Following a hip replacement, you might spend 1 to 2 days in the hospital. Some may even go home the very same day.
In the early days, your doctor might administer painkillers, such as:
- Opioids
- Local anesthetic
- NSAIDs
- Acetaminophen
Your doc might also stitch or staple the incision site for about 2 weeks, requiring wound care at home. Healthcare professionals will encourage you to get moving as soon as possible, even if it's painful initially. A physical therapist may demonstrate exercises to strengthen your leg, provide tips on avoiding damaging the new hip, and show you how to sit and bend without causing injury.
Life at Home
For several weeks after you return home, you may require assistance with daily tasks or might need to stay in a rehab facility. You'll likely experience some pain for a few weeks and should continue with prescribed medications. Your physical therapist may recommend specific exercises to speed up healing, improve flexibility, and enhance strength in the new joint. If needed, a home health aide, nurse, or physical therapist may check in to assist with your recovery.
By 10 to 14 days post-op, your stitches should be gone, and pain and swelling may start to subside (though it might take longer for some). Earlier recovery stages may vary, with some people moving around more easily without assistance, while others might still need a cane or walker.
Recovery Roundabout 3 Weeks
Within 3 to 6 weeks, you'll generally be able to handle light daily activities. You may feel stronger and more stable, and be ready to tackle some basic self-care and light chores. Some may even return to work after the 6-week mark, although this depends on the individual.
You should continue physical therapy as your physical therapist prescribes for at least 2 months post-surgery. You can discuss with your doctor when it's safe to engage in additional exercise, like swimming or walking.
3 Months and Beyond
By the 3-month mark, most people will be able to handle daily activities. You may need to check with your doc about when to lighten up or stop physical therapy. By this time, you can probably get back into low-impact sports, assuming your doc gives the thumbs-up.
Recovery can vary, so it's essential to check in with your doc for updates on your progress and to determine which physical therapy techniques will best suit your needs.
Aiding Recovery
To kick-start your recovery, try these tips:
- Perform physical therapy exercises as your therapist instructs
- Engage in gentle exercises, like daily walking
- Use a reclining position
- Apply cold compresses to help reduce swelling
- Take any prescribed medications as directed
- Use walking aids if necessary to avoid putting too much stress on the new hip
- Limit sitting still for prolonged periods, avoid crossing your legs at the knee, and avoid certain activities that strain your hip or require sharp turns, jumping, or heavy lifting
Differences in Older vs. Younger Recovery
Traditionally, experts might not recommend hip replacements for those under 20 years old due to unfavorable outcomes. However, some younger patients might need a total hip replacement because of osteonecrosis of the femoral head, a condition where the top part of the thigh bone collapses. In these cases, a hip replacement can relieve pain and improve function.
Modern hip replacement implants are leading to improved outcomes and survival rates in younger populations. Younger people may experience fewer complications during recovery but might have additional health challenges.
Older adults can face a greater risk of complications due to age-related conditions like heart and lung disease, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure. It's essential to consult with a doctor about diagnostic tests and treatments for these health concerns.
Hip Resurfacing Recovery
During hip resurfacing, a surgeon trims and caps the femoral head with a metal cover instead of removing it. While the damaged cartilage and bone inside the socket are removed and replaced with a metal shell, the recovery timeline is similar to that of a total hip replacement. Patients can typically go home within 1 to 4 days post-op, and while they may need support from walking aids in the early stages, they can usually walk independently within two weeks. Pain and discomfort may last for a few weeks, and a doctor might recommended physical therapy exercises to aid in recovery.
The Goods of Hip Replacement Surgery
After hip replacement surgery and recovery, patients can expect:
- Less pain
- Improved mobility
- A better quality of life
- Easier daily activities
However, long-term effects may include some numbness, pain, or stiffness around the incision site. Hip replacements may also impact aspects of your life like metal detectors, high-impact sports, dental procedures, and sexual activity.
• 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
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How long will it take to walk again after a hip replacement?
Many people can walk independently within 10 to 14 days post-op, with assistance. Over the following weeks, most can walk greater distances.
How long does bed rest last after hip replacement surgery?
While it might seem like you should rest, it’s important to start walking as soon as possible after hip replacement surgery. Complete bed rest is not necessary.
What age do they stop doing hip replacements?
• 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
There’s no age limit for hip replacements. The factors that a doctor considers include overall health and mobility.
How long do hip implants or replacements last?
Modern hip replacements can last for at least 15 years. But if you’re wondering whether you’ll have to get another one, the answer depends on your body's response to the implant. Some people may require a second surgery earlier than expected. A 2019 review found that patients can expect a hip replacement to last for around 14 years in just over half of the cases.
- It's crucial to follow a medical professional's advice regarding exercises to strengthen the body pre-surgery.
- Preparing meals in advance and making the living space accessible can facilitate a smoother post-op life.
- After the surgery, painkillers such as opioids, local anesthetic, NSAIDs, or acetaminophen might be administered for pain management.
- Wound care at home is essential for about two weeks after the surgery, as the incision site will be stitched or stapled.
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the leg, avoid damaging the new hip, and improve flexibility are crucial for speeding up healing.
- Engaging in gentle exercises like walking is recommended during the recovery process.
- Older adults might face a greater risk of complications due to age-related conditions, so it's essential to consult with a doctor about diagnostic tests and treatments for these health concerns.
- To aid recovery, using cold compresses and taking prescribed medications as directed can help reduce swelling and speed up healing.
- Hip resurfacing recovery timeline is similar to that of a total hip replacement, with patients typically walking independently within two weeks.
