Deciding to have hip replacement surgery is a great step toward a life with less pain. As you look forward to that outcome, it’s normal to have questions about what comes next. The recovery period is just as important as the surgery itself, and preparing for it can help you feel more confident and in control.
Dr. Kyle Stoops is an expert provider of advanced orthopedic care who believes that a well-supported recovery leads to the best results. He and his team are here to give you the guidance and encouragement you need every step of the way. Feeling prepared can make all the difference, and it starts with having a simple conversation about what to expect.
Let’s walk through five practical tips to help you navigate your recovery from hip replacement surgery with confidence.
1. Prepare Your Home Before Your Surgery
One of the kindest things you can do for your future self is to prepare your home ahead of time. After surgery, you will want to focus all your energy on resting and healing. Coming home to a space that is safe and easy to navigate will make your first few days and weeks much smoother.
Think about your daily path through your home. Here are a few simple adjustments to consider:
- Clear the Way: Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, electrical cords, and general clutter from walkways.
- Set up a Recovery Station: Arrange a comfortable chair with everything you’ll need within arm's reach. This could include your phone, medications, a water bottle, books, and the TV remote.
- Make the Bathroom Safer: Install a raised toilet seat and grab bars in the shower. A shower chair can also be very helpful, as you may feel tired or unsteady at first.
- Arrange for Help: Ask a family member or friend if they can stay with you or check in on you for the first few days. They can help with meals, errands, and offer much-needed support.
Taking these small steps before your procedure can give you great peace of mind.
2. Get Moving, Gently and Safely
It might sound surprising, but one of the most important parts of your recovery is to start moving shortly after your surgery. Movement helps reduce the risk of blood clots, decreases swelling, and begins the process of regaining your strength. Your care team will help you get up and walk within hours of your procedure.
In the beginning, this will involve short, slow walks with the help of a walker. Don't push yourself too hard. The motto here is 'little and often.' Aim for several short walks throughout the day rather than one long, tiring one. As you feel stronger, you will gradually be able to walk for longer distances and with less assistance. Listening to your body is key. It’s normal to feel tired, but movement is a vital part of the healing process.
3. Commit to Your Physical Therapy Exercises
Your surgeon and physical therapist will give you a set of specific exercises to do at home. It is so important to do these exercises as prescribed. They are designed to help you regain your hip's range of motion, build strength in the surrounding muscles, and improve your stability.
These exercises might seem simple at first, but they are the foundation of a successful recovery. They directly help your new hip joint function as it should.
Some common exercises include:
- Ankle pumps: To help with circulation.
- Gluteal sets: To tighten your buttock muscles.
- Heel slides: To gently bend and straighten your knee and hip.
- Leg raises: To strengthen the muscles at the front of your thigh.
Consistency is more important than intensity. Doing your exercises for a short period multiple times a day is more effective than trying to do them all at once.
4. Fuel Your Body for Healing
Your body is working hard to heal after surgery, and it needs the right fuel to do its job well. Good nutrition and proper hydration play a big role in your recovery. Focus on eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, which is essential for repairing tissues. Lean meats, fish, beans, and nuts are all great sources.
Staying hydrated is also crucial. Drinking plenty of water helps with circulation and can prevent complications like constipation, which can be a side effect of pain medication. Try to keep a water bottle nearby at all times as a gentle reminder to drink. Also, be mindful of foods that can cause inflammation, such as sugary snacks and heavily processed items. Choosing whole, nourishing foods will give your body the building blocks it needs to heal effectively.
5. Be Patient and Manage Your Expectations
Recovering from a hip replacement is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to be patient with yourself and your body. You will have good days and not-so-good days, and that is a completely normal part of the process. You might feel great one day and more tired or sore the next. This is not a sign of a setback but simply your body’s natural rhythm of healing.
Celebrate the small victories along the way, whether it's walking to the mailbox without your walker for the first time or being able to put on your own socks. The hip replacement recovery timeline is different for everyone. It generally takes a few months to feel mostly recovered and up to a full year to be completely back to normal.
The implants used today are designed for the long haul. Surgeons like Dr. Stoops use advanced implants, including those from Enovis, which are built with durability in mind. Some components use materials like Vitamin E-infused plastic, designed to reduce wear over time, which may help your new hip serve you well for decades. Trust that your new joint is strong and that your body knows how to heal. Give it the time it needs.
Your Partner in Recovery
Following these tips can help you take an active role in your healing journey and set you up for a wonderful outcome. Remember that you are not on this path alone; your surgical team is there to support you.
Dr. Kyle Stoops is committed to providing you with the care and guidance you need, from your first consultation through your final recovery milestone. Schedule your consultation today; we are here to help you get back to a life of comfortable, confident movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from hip replacement surgery?
Most people can expect to return to basic daily activities within 4-6 weeks after surgery. Full recovery, including returning to more active pursuits, often takes several months, and healing continues for up to a year. Recovery rates vary, so it’s okay if your progress looks a little different than someone else’s.
Will I have a lot of pain after hip replacement?
It’s normal to have some pain and discomfort following surgery, especially in the first few days. Your care team will help you with a pain management plan that may involve medication and gentle movement. Gradually, as you heal and regain strength, pain should decrease.
When can I walk after surgery?
Most patients begin walking with the help of a walker within hours of the procedure. As you build strength, you’ll transition to a cane and eventually walk on your own.
How soon can I drive after a hip replacement?
You can usually return to driving when you’re no longer taking prescription pain medication and have regained good strength and control in your leg. This is often around 4-6 weeks post-surgery, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
When can I return to work or other activities?
This depends on your job and how quickly you heal. Some people with jobs that are less physically demanding may return in 4-6 weeks or a bit sooner, while more physical jobs may require a longer break. Your care team will discuss your specific timeline and help you make a safe transition back.
What can I do to make my recovery smoother?
Following your surgeon’s advice, doing your physical therapy exercises, eating nourishing meals, and listening to your body all make a big difference. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Stoops’ team with any worries or questions along the way.
