Hip replacements have become a common surgery in the U.S., and the procedure’s safety has increased dramatically in the last few decades. However, the ultimate success of the surgery is determined as much by the recovery process as by the surgery itself. 

Recovery starts with basic movements in the hospital immediately following surgery, and continues either at home or at a rehab facility. Regardless of where your hip replacement recovery takes place, here are some tips to help you get back to your normal activities as soon as possible:

Get plenty of mild exercise

Movement is essential to a healthy recovery from hip replacement surgery, as regular movement and exercise builds up strength in the muscles around the new joint. Many patients are able to walk the same day as their surgery, and most can resume their normal routine within 3-6 weeks. It’s important to start with slow, short walks, and practicing basic activities like sitting, standing, and climbing stairs.

Closely monitor your diet and weight

Excess weight can put stress on your new hip prosthesis, which can accelerate its wear and tear and increase the risk of complications. Because you shouldn’t exercise vigorously during the recovery process, you’ll have to focus on maintaining a healthy diet to avoid gaining weight.

Encourage healthy circulation

Mild exercise will help maintain a healthy blood flow and prevent blood clots from forming, but you can also perform targeted stretches or massages such as:

• Regularly squeeze your thighs and calves

• Point and flex your ankles while sitting

• Move your legs while utilizing a full range of motion

• Walk across the room every 1-2 hours

If you notice increased swelling that doesn’t resolve with elevation, or pain when you touch your calf that doesn’t subside with an ice pack, elevation, or pain medication, check in with your doctor right away to address any potential clotting issues.

Schedule physical therapy sessions

Whether or not you’ll need physical therapy after hip replacement surgery depends on your age, overall health, and other factors determined by your doctor, but there are several benefits of participating in even a few sessions:

• Physical therapy helps with balance issues, along with range of motion

• Physical therapy teaches you how to move your body in a way that doesn’t cause further problems

• Physical therapy builds morale and offers socialization opportunities for patients recovering at home

The most important thing to remember during physical therapy is to follow the therapist’s instructions to the letter—it’s easy to get discouraged in the beginning, but with time and patience you’ll be back to your favorite activities in no time.

Physical therapy and post acute rehabilitation at Bella Vista Health Center

Bella Vista Health Center offers post acute rehabilitation services for patients recovering from hip replacement surgery or other medical conditions. Our post acute team includes physical therapists, physicians, nurses, and other caregivers who will help restore your independence as soon as possible, using a range of customized rehab programs that incorporate exercise, strength training, pain management, adaptive equipment and more. Schedule a tour and see our hip replacement rehab facility, give us a call at (619) 644-1000.