Department of
Orthopaedic Surgery
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Hip replacement surgery can be life-changing, especially if you’ve been living with chronic pain and limited mobility. Optimal recovery from a hip replacement requires following all post-surgery recommendations from your care team. Understand what to expect as you transition from hospital to home after hip replacement surgery and how to make the most of the healing process throughout rehabilitation.
Going into your hip replacement surgery in the best possible physical health can aid in your recovery. Hip replacement exercises before your procedure can help strengthen the muscles around the hip joint and improve flexibility. Beneficial exercises to consider include:
Your orthopedic surgeon can provide an exercise routine to prepare you for your procedure. Always make sure to consult with your physician before starting any exercise program.
Immediately following your surgery, your care team will closely monitor your vital signs. Hip replacement patients are typically released within one to three days, but that varies by patient. You may be released the same day if you respond well to your surgery. However, if complications occur or your physician wants to monitor you further, your stay could be a little longer.
While in the hospital, your care team will help prepare you for what to expect during the hip replacement recovery phase. They’ll get you moving around and started on a physical therapy routine right away to help manage any pain you experience.
A hip replacement is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries and is considered safe and effective. However, like all surgical procedures, there’s always the risk of complications. Specific issues may include:
Although uncommon, other potential complications after hip replacement surgery include reactions to anesthesia, lingering pain, or a fracture around the implant. Your surgeon and care team will help minimize the risk of complications after hip replacement surgery.
Getting active soon after hip surgery is essential to regaining strength, mobility, and flexibility. While still in the hospital, your care team will help you walk using crutches or other assistive devices. They’ll start you walking and exercising slowly at first, gradually increasing intensity as you progress.
Shortly after your hip replacement, physical therapy will begin. These exercises are designed to improve flexibility and mobility, increase blood flow, and prevent stiffness:
Be sure to follow your physician’s guidelines and contact them immediately if you experience any adverse symptoms.
It’s typical to experience some discomfort from your hip replacement operation during the recovery time. Your physician may take various approaches to alleviate pain, including:
If you experience post-surgery pain after hip replacement surgery, your physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling.
Applying ice packs to your hip can decrease pain and inflammation. Be sure to only apply ice 20 minutes at a time. Heat can relax the muscles and increase blood flow. These types of therapy are particularly effective in the first several days after surgery.
Propping your leg on pillows promotes blood flow and reduces pressure on your hip joint. Keep the leg elevated behind your heel, and don’t place pillows directly behind your knee, as it can cause compression and increase the risk of clots.
Supports like crutches, canes, and walkers can reduce strain on your hip joint while walking.
Generally, the average recovery time for a hip replacement is two to eight weeks. How long it takes to recover from a hip replacement can vary depending on your age, overall health, and preexisting conditions. Other factors include the extent of the surgery and how committed you are to your recovery regimen. Let’s look at a timeline for hip replacement recovery.
Most patients typically spend one to three days in the hospital following hip surgery. During the first week of recovery once you go home, watch for signs of infection. Keep active to ensure healthy blood flow, but don’t overdo it.
This period focuses on wound healing, pain management, and increased mobility. At this point, you can taper off pain medication and ramp up your physical therapy routine. You may still need assistance to perform daily activities.
Within a month after surgery, you’ll likely notice improvements in pain and mobility and regain more independence. You may not need a walking aid, and your physician may clear you so you can drive again. However, remember that you’re still healing, so avoid any activities that put added stress on your hip joint.
Most patients can usually resume their normal activities after six months and are pain-free after one year. However, some people may still experience lingering discomfort. Be sure to continue regular follow-up appointments with your physician so they can monitor your progress to ensure the best outcome.
Hip replacement surgery can profoundly enhance your quality of life so you can engage in daily activities without pain or limitations. The success rate for hip surgery is high, with about 90% to 95% of patients experiencing relief 10 years after receiving a hip implant.
Contact the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital to learn more about hip replacement surgery and the recovery process.
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