Hip Replacement Timeline for Recovery

Recovery after hip replacement differs for all patients, depending on a multitude of factors, such as age, preexisting medical conditions and lifestyle choices. However, it’s important to discuss what typical recovery looks like after a hip replacement, as well as understand how to have an active role in your own rehabilitation. Work that you put in before the op, often referred to as pre-rehabilitation, can have a huge impact on your recovery. For instance, supporting healthy and active routines will strengthen your body in readiness for surgery.

It’s also important to mention that external preparation is key to making your recovery more streamlined and comfortable. Arranging a bedroom downstairs, removing any trip hazards, or installing a shower seat are all useful ways in which you can support your recovery pre-operation. It also may be a good idea to have meals prepped or seek assistance with laundry and other household chores if you are able to do so.

What to Expect Following Recovery After a Hip Replacement

Contrary to popular belief, many patients will be walking and well enough to return home on the day of surgery, and it is commonplace in the United States and other countries. In fact, movement of the new joint is essential, as it stops it from becoming stiff and prevents additional difficulties such as a blood clot or chest infections. In some cases, patients may require extra monitoring which results in a lengthened hospital stay, or within an inpatient rehabilitation unit to further support their recovery. Some patients may prefer to arrange assistance with a home health aide.

Whilst discussing the hip replacement recovery timeline, it’s crucial to state that although rough guidance is given, engagement in physical activities should only be introduced once you feel comfortable doing so. It takes approximately 2 weeks for the incision to heal, and during this time it is safe to get wet, however, baths and swimming pools should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection. Most patients can return to most of their day-to-day activities from around 4 to 6 weeks post-operation. But much the same as pre-rehabilitation, there are many things you can do after the event to encourage a smooth recovery. Exercises will be prescribed by a physical therapist, which are expected to be carried out daily, increasing from small movements to more complex and demanding tasks such as climbing stairs.

Know When to Consult Your Doctor

Although unlikely, you should remain aware of difficulties that could arise after a hip replacement surgery in Australia, in the same way you would after any surgery. Your hip replacement recovery timeline may be hindered by other complications. Following advice from your doctor will prevent these eventualities as much as possible. You will also have regular follow-ups for a year post-surgery, however, should you have any concerns between visits, seek advice from a orthopaedic hip specialist immediately.

Hip Replacements That are Made to Last

Thanks to modern technologies and a range of advanced treatment methods to suit individual needs, hip implants routinely last greater than 20 years in over 90% of patients. This means that recovery after hip replacement is as smooth as it has ever been because the risk of failure is low, as is the requirement for repeat surgeries.