Are you suffering from severe pain due to arthritis, hip fracture, or another hip condition? Did various conservative treatments such as medications, injections, and therapy work for you?
If these treatments fail to alleviate your severe pain, which is a possible symptom of a degenerative hip condition, it might be time to consider a hip replacement. Since surgery is a major procedure, it is only normal to have questions, especially about the recovery process. There are many things to consider about recovery from hip replacement surgery.
What Is Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a kind of orthopedic surgery wherein a damaged or injured hip is replaced with an artificial joint. The prosthesis is usually made of metal, plastic, ceramic, or other synthetic material. It replaces the “ball” of the thigh bone and the “socket” of the pelvis, forming the joint.
There are different types of hip surgery. Your hip replacement surgeon will decide which approach is best for you and your recovery. It depends on several factors, such as age and condition. Hip replacement surgery can be any of the following:
- Total hip arthroplasty
- Partial hip replacement
- Direct anterior hip replacement
- Hip resurfacing
- Hip arthroscopy
A hip replacement surgery remains to be a common and cost-effective treatment for severe hip osteoarthritis. This surgery is also performed for other types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and traumatic arthritis.
Other hip conditions may also benefit from the procedure, such as hip fractures and bone tumors. There are studies that show the positive outcomes of hip replacement surgery, and patients can enjoy their recovery and improved quality of life.
What Is The Recovery Timeline For Hip Replacement?
The recovery period for a hip replacement may vary depending on the patient and the specific procedure performed. Some latest medical innovations allow patients to go home on the same day of surgery. Outpatient joint replacement surgery is minimally invasive with a shorter recovery time. Some hip replacement surgeries, such as total hip arthroplasty, require two to five days of hospital stay for monitoring.
Preparing For Surgery
Preparation for surgery can start as early as a few weeks before the surgery. Discussing the procedure with your surgeon is important, so you can know what to expect. You will also need to discuss your complete medical history with your surgeon. Before the surgery, your orthopedic doctor or physical therapist may prescribe conditioning exercises to strengthen your hip muscles.
During Hospital Stay
While you are at the hospital, physical therapy will start as soon as possible to mobilize your new hip joint. Proper positioning is also essential since certain movements are restricted during your recovery. You must refrain from the following movements:
- Crossing legs beyond the midline
- Bending hips more than 90 degrees
- Rotating leg inwards and outwards
After Surgery
Post-operative rehabilitation will continue after your discharge from the hospital. You will visit your physical and occupational therapists about two to three times a week. They will also recommend home exercises and ways to perform your daily activities as your wounds heal. Your incisions are expected to heal in about six weeks.
Factors Affecting Recovery From Hip Replacement Surgery
The average recovery time from hip replacement surgery is two to four weeks, but each body is different. Several factors like age and pre-existing conditions may affect your recovery, so it is important to consider them before surgery. Like any other surgery, there are many risks now minimized by medical advancements. Risks include:
- Bleeding or infection of the incision site
- Blood clots forming in the legs or lungs
- Dislocation of the hip joint, especially if movement restrictions are not followed
- Nerve injury around the hip causing weakness and numbness
- Need for additional hip surgery or revision of hip replacement
Despite the possible complications, there are many ways to support your recovery:
- Follow-through with medication and physiotherapy
- Early mobilization of the hip joint within tolerable pain
- Home support to temporarily help you with daily activities as you recuperate
- Availability of home modifications such as handrails and assistive devices
- Follow-up with your orthopedic doctor
What To Expect After Recovery
You can expect a decrease in pain levels, if not complete painlessness, around the hip about 12 weeks after surgery. The new hip joint can last up to 20 to 30 years without any need for additional surgery. The benefits of hip replacement surgery include:
- Loss of pain on the affected extremity
- Improved muscle strength, range of motion, joint flexibility, and standing balance
- Better ability to perform daily activities, including self-care and work
- Increased mobility with or without an assistive device
- Return to an active lifestyle
Hip Replacement Surgery From The Best Orthopedic Surgeons in Naples, FL
If you need hip replacement surgery, it is best to consult with your orthopedic doctor. Because our bodies are different, an expert in joint replacement will discuss the best available treatment options for you. The Joint Replacement Institute is a team of healthcare professionals who will take care of you, from assessment and diagnosis to treatment and post-operative care.
Contact us now for specialized hip and joint care in the Naples area. We are open every weekday to answer your queries or to set an appointment for you. You may also reach us by calling (239) 261-2663.
Improve your quality of life today. Find out more about how you can recover from hip pain and return permanently to your active lifestyle.
