Total hip replacement seems ideal for patients with a damaged hip joint and limited mobility. If you have been experiencing excruciating pain in the hip joint or have sustained a severe hip injury, talk to a hip replacement surgeon in Thane to discuss the risks and benefits of a surgical treatment.
It’s an invasive procedure that involves replacing the damaged hip joint with an artificial implant. If you are considering a hip replacement, you might want to know how long the recovery takes and what this period will look like. Let’s get straight to understanding the stages of hip replacement recovery.
Immediate Post-Surgery Phase (0-2 Weeks)
After surgery, you will stay in the hospital for a day or two. Your vitals will be monitored closely. You need follow-up visits to get your wound checked. During the first two weeks, you will be on pain-relief medication, including NSAIDs and opioids. Your surgical site will be stitched or stapled. The medical staff will discuss the wound care with you.
You are also asked to start walking the same day or the next day after surgery to prevent post-operative complications. You can walk with assistance. The goal is to keep you moving to ensure proper blood circulation, prevent joint stiffness, and check whether the new hip is settling in.
Early Recovery Stage (2-6 Weeks)
You can start light activities by weeks 3-6. Your physical therapy will continue, and you’ll need to introduce light stretching and basic exercises that can build your muscle strength. These exercises also stabilize your new hip joint and help you regain your range of motion. You are still in the recovery stage, so avoid jumping to the high-intensity or weight-lifting exercises just yet. Start slow with simple stretches, yoga, and a walk.
Intermediate Recovery Period (6-12 Weeks)
At this point, you will be more comfortable walking without a cane or any walking aid. You may even walk short distances independently. You may also start more challenging exercises. Once you’ve reached week 6, you can expect to resume your normal life and execute most physical activities. Your goal should be to regain the complete range of motion and start sports and high-intense physical exercises.
Long-Term Recovery (3-6 Months and Beyond)
By this time, you may have returned to work and other chores. Physical therapy may continue for a while to build muscle strength around your hip joint. You’ll be used to the new implant and must feel comfortable. Your physician will clear you for most low-impact activities. In fact, some patients resume gentle sports around this time.
Conclusion
You may feel fully functional, stable, and normal by the time you reach the 6th-month mark. However, remember, hip replacement surgery in Thane is an invasive and complex procedure that can take up to a year to heal. Start with Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE), and gradually work your way up to the more intense, weight-bearing exercises. Always seek the doctor’s permission before introducing any new physical activity to your routine.
