Recently updated on October 25th, 2022 at 11:32 am
Almost half a million hip replacements are conducted every year in the US alone! It can be intimidating to consider having a joint replacement, but take comfort in the fact that these procedures are common, and the rehabilitation process is well established.
During the procedure, the head of your femur and hip socket are replaced by pieces of plastic and metal. These artificial pieces replace the worn-out socket of your pelvis and hip. In the long term, this makes it easier and less painful for you to move!
The goal of hip replacement recovery is to protect the new hip by increasing strength and range of motion, so you can return to your normal daily life. If you’re looking at a hip replacement and are nervous about the process, read on. This article will cover all the hip replacement recovery tips you need!
Safety Tips
During the beginning of hip replacement surgery recovery, you will have to keep an eye out for blood clots and infections. Follow your surgeon’s instructions exactly.
Watch for warning signs like pain in the calf or redness around the knee. If there’s increased swelling, shortness of breath, or chest pain, contact your doctor immediately.
Following surgery, safety is key. You don’t want to injure the area or damage the work that has been done. This can increase your hip replacement recovery time.
Avoid any situations where you could slip or trip. Avoid wet floors and icy paths. Keep your floors free of potential tripping hazards, and remove any small rugs.
Make sure to keep an eye out for any pets that could get underfoot. For additional safety, always use handrails and wear low-heeled shoes.
For the first few weeks, try not to sleep on your stomach or your new hip. Sleep on your back with a pillow between your knees. You can also sleep on the side that hasn’t been replaced with a pillow between your knees.
Your doctor or physical therapist will tell you what specific positions and movements to avoid, so listen to them. If your hip hurts more than usual or you think it’s dislocated, don’t walk on it and go to the doctor immediately.
The First Three Months of Hip Replacement Recovery
Most people in total hip replacement recovery can usually walk the same day or the next day after surgery. Within a few weeks, you’ll be able to resume most normal activities.
Your physical therapist will guide both your short term rehabilitation and your hip replacement recovery week by week. Remember that they are experienced experts, and will be able to give you the best advice possible!
Your hip replacement recovery exercises will focus on promoting blood flow and preventing clots. They will also work on increasing strength and range of motion. Your therapist will also encourage you to walk as much as you can with a cane or walker.
You’ll probably spend a lot of time resting and recovering between physical therapy sessions. A hip replacement is a pretty big surgery, so your body needs extra time to repair itself. Don’t feel guilty for resting often, and spending a lot of time with your leg elevated.
Get Back to Your Normal Life
Remember, your surgeon, your physical therapist, and you all have the same goal: to get you through your hip replacement recovery and back to normal life. The process might be challenging and painful at times, but trust in their experience and guidance. You’ll be back to normal before you know it.
If you’re looking for more health and wellness tips, check out our blog for more!
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