Anticipated Healing Period after Hip Replacement: A Preview of Post-Operative Progress
Recovery from a hip replacement surgery can vary from individual to individual, but most people can engage in light activities within three to six weeks following the procedure. The preparations taken prior to surgery, type of surgery, and overall health of the individual can impact the recovery timeline.
Preparation for a Hip Replacement Surgery
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), individuals can expect to resume independent daily living and light activities within three to six weeks after surgery. However, preparations made before the surgery can affect the total recovery period.
To ensure a smoother recovery, patients are advised to:
- Discuss the surgery with their doctor and healthcare team, and research what to expect during and after the procedure.
- Ask their doctor about exercises that strengthen the legs, core, and upper body before surgery.
- Maintain a moderately healthy weight to reduce the risk of complications during surgery.
- Limit or stop smoking as it can slow the healing process.
- Arrange for help with daily activities for a week or two following the return home after surgery.
- Prepare meals in advance for ease after the return home.
- Make the home accessible and convenient, such as having a raised toilet seat, safety bars in the bathroom, and a walker or crutches available.
Early Days After Surgery
Following a total or partial hip replacement, most people remain in the hospital for one to two days. Some may even go home on the same day as the surgery.
In the ensuing days, pain relievers are administered to alleviate discomfort, which may include opioids, local anesthetics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen. The incision is typically stapled or stitched closed and left for about two weeks, requiring wound care at home.
Healthcare professionals encourage patients to get up and move around as soon as possible after the surgery, with the ability to walk short distances with assistance on the same day as the operation, although this may feel uncomfortable initially. A physical therapist may demonstrate exercises to strengthen the hip and advise on activities to avoid. They may also show the patient how to sit and bend to guard against damaging the new hip.
Returning Home
Patients may require help with daily tasks for several weeks after returning home, or they may need to stay in a rehabilitation facility. Pain and discomfort may linger for several weeks, necessitating the continuation of prescription medications.
During this period, patients may attend physical therapy sessions or perform exercises recommended by their physical therapist at home. These exercises aid in speeding recovery, improving flexibility, and strengthening the new joint.
If necessary, home health aides, nurses, or physical therapists may visit to assist with the recovery process. It is important for patients to keep the surgery incision wound dry until it is removed, usually within two weeks.
Recovery Timeline
By the 10th to the 14th day after surgery, patients should no longer have their stitches. Pain and swelling may begin to subside, although this may take longer for some people. By this stage, patients who previously required a cane or walker before surgery may still need it during the early recovery period.
In the following three to six weeks, many people can generally resume light activities of daily living. They may feel stronger, more stable, and comfortable putting more weight on their leg. They may also be able to resume basic self-care and light chores.
Many people feel ready to return to work after six weeks, although this may vary. After six to eight weeks, people may be able to safely have sex again. Regular physical therapy is recommended for at least two months following surgery. Patients can discuss with their doctor when it is safe to participate in additional exercise, such as swimming and walking.
Recovery Beyond Three 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 check in with their doctor for an evaluation of their progress and to discuss the types of physical therapy that best suit their needs.
Tips for Improved Recovery
• 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
Patients can take the following steps to enhance their hip replacement recovery:
- Follow physical therapy exercises as instructed.
- Participate in gentle exercises like daily walking.
- Sit in a reclining position.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Take any prescription medications as directed.
- Use walking aids, such as crutches, if necessary.
Differences in Recovery between Older and Younger People
Traditionally, hip replacements have not been recommended for individuals 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, in which the femoral head - the upper part of the thigh bone - collapses. These cases can have favorable outcomes, with a total hip replacement providing pain relief and restoring functionality.
In recent years, modern hip replacement implants have led to improved outcomes and survival rates in younger populations. For older adults, recovery can be more challenging as they may have compromised mobility and a higher risk of complications due to conditions such as heart and lung diseases, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure. It is essential for older adults to consult their doctor for diagnostic tests and treatments for these conditions.
• 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
Hip Resurfacing Recovery
During hip resurfacing surgery, the surgeon trims and caps the femoral head with a smooth metal cover instead of removing it, while removing the damaged cartilage and bone inside the socket and replacing it with a metal shell. Most people can return home one to four days after the surgery, and they may begin putting weight on their leg immediately, albeit with the assistance of a walker, cane, or crutches for the initial few days or weeks.
Patients may experience pain and discomfort for several weeks after the surgery, and their doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids for more severe pain. Similar to total hip replacement, physical therapy is recommended after surgery, with exercises designed to maintain range of motion and restore strength. Patients may resume their regular activities around six weeks after surgery.
In summary, hip replacement and resurfacing surgeries yield similar outcomes and high success rates. Patients can begin recovery the same day as the surgery, with walking short distances with assistance possible within hours of the procedure. Physical therapy, both in the hospital and at home, aids in building strength and flexibility and speeding recovery. Most people can return to light activities within about six weeks and resume life as usual after three months.
- Discussion with a doctor about predictive factors for Alzheimer's, COPD, obesity, ulcerative colitis, cance, and other chronic diseases in relation to recovery from hip replacement surgery is advisable.
- Science and medical-conditions research can help patients understand potential respiratory conditions, mental-health concerns, cardiovascular-health issues, and the role they may play in recovery.
- AQ (Aging Quotient) testing can offer insights into the impact of aging on recovery, helping patients and their healthcare team tailor therapies-and-treatments to individual needs.
- Early physical therapy, such as exercises for the legs, core, and upper body, can strengthen the body before surgery and improve recovery outcomes.
- Mental-health support and practices, such as relaxation techniques, can help alleviate stress during surgery and the recovery period.
- Post-surgery, healthcare professionals may prescribe a mix of pain relievers, including opioids, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen, to manage discomfort.
- Cardiovascular health should be monitored during recovery, as heart disease can slow the healing process for some patients.
- In some cases, residential rehabilitation facilities may be necessary for continued care beyond three months, especially for individuals with a history of chronic diseases or complex health needs.
- Long-term management of health-and-wellness, including regular physical therapy, exercise, and follow-ups with healthcare professionals, is essential for lasting recovery and improved quality of life.
