- The general journey runs from preparation, through the operation, to staged recovery at home and follow-up.
- A total hip replacement is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia and typically takes around one to two hours.
- Rehabilitation usually begins within about a day of surgery, guided by a physiotherapist, with a hospital stay of a few days being common.
- Recovery continues in stages over the following weeks and months, with strength and function able to improve for up to a year.
- Your own surgeon and physiotherapy team set the specific plan, milestones, and restrictions that apply to you.
If you’re preparing for a total hip replacement, it helps to understand the general shape of the journey, from the lead-up to surgery, through the operation, to the phases of recovery. This overview explains what’s typically involved at each stage. Bear in mind it’s a general guide only: your own surgeon and physiotherapy team will set the specific plan, milestones, and restrictions that apply to you, and those always take priority over general information.
The Hip Replacement Journey at a Glance
| Stage | What Typically Happens |
|---|---|
| Before surgery | Health assessment, preparing your home, and planning time off work. |
| The operation | Total hip replacement performed under spinal or general anaesthesia, typically one to two hours. |
| In hospital | Rehabilitation begins within about a day, with a stay of a few days common. |
| At home: first 1–2 weeks | Reducing swelling and pain, following physiotherapy exercises, gradually reducing walking aids. |
| At home: following weeks | Mobility and strength improve; driving and work resume as your team advises. |
| Longer term | Strength, stability, and endurance can continue improving for up to a year. |
Before Surgery: Preparation
Good preparation supports a smoother recovery. Beforehand, you’ll usually have a thorough assessment to confirm you’re well enough for surgery and anaesthetic. It’s also worth preparing practically:
- Being as healthy and active as your circumstances allow, maintaining your fitness, eating a balanced and healthy diet, and avoiding smoking or vaping
- Preparing your home, removing trip hazards, arranging your sleeping and washing spaces to reduce bending and stairs, and getting useful aids ready
- Planning time off work and how you’ll manage everyday tasks in the early weeks
The Operation
A total hip replacement replaces the damaged ball and socket of the hip with prosthetic components. It’s performed under spinal or general anaesthesia and typically takes around one to two hours. It can be carried out through different surgical approaches (such as anterior or posterior), which your surgeon will discuss with you based on what suits your circumstances.
Early Recovery: In Hospital
Rehabilitation usually begins very soon after surgery, often within about a day, guided by a physiotherapist. Early on, the focus is on:
- Getting up and moving with the support of crutches or a frame
- Managing pain and swelling
- Gentle early exercises to encourage circulation and movement
A hospital stay of a few days is common, though this varies between patients and depends on your progress.
Recovery at Home: The Following Weeks
Once home, recovery continues in stages. Broadly, and as a general pattern only:
- The first 1–2 weeks focus on reducing your swelling and pain, following your physiotherapy exercises, and gradually reducing reliance on walking aids as your team advises.
- Over the following weeks, mobility and strength improve, and many everyday activities gradually become easier. Milestones like returning to driving and work happen when your team advises you’re ready, based on your recovery rather than fixed dates.
- Longer term, strength, stability, and endurance can continue improving for up to a year.
Your surgeon may also give you specific movement precautions to follow in the early period to protect the new joint. It’s important to follow the specific restrictions and exercises you’re given, as these are tailored to your surgery. General background on hip replacement is also available from healthdirect.
Follow-Up
Follow-up appointments are a normal part of the process, allowing your surgeon to check your progress and healing. Between appointments, contact your surgical team if you have concerns, such as increasing pain, signs of infection (fever, or redness, warmth or discharge at the wound), significant swelling, calf pain or swelling, or breathing difficulty. It’s always better to check than to wait if something doesn’t feel right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a standard protocol for total hip replacement?
There’s a general pattern: preparation, surgery, early hospital rehabilitation, then staged recovery at home, but the specific protocol, including milestones and any movement precautions, is set individually by your surgeon and physiotherapy team based on your surgery and progress. It’s not a one-size-fits-all plan.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery is gradual and varies between individuals. Many people are managing everyday activities within around six weeks to three months, with strength and function continuing to improve for up to a year. Your team will give you a timeline specific to you.
Will I have movement restrictions?
You may be given specific precautions to protect the new joint in the early period, and these can differ depending on the surgical approach used. Follow the specific guidance your surgeon provides rather than general rules. If you have questions, contact the clinic.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is a general overview and does not constitute medical advice or a specific rehabilitation protocol. Every patient and surgery is different, and you should follow the specific plan, milestones, and restrictions provided by your own surgical and physiotherapy team. Contact your treating team if you have any concerns during your recovery.
