We all wish we had the gift of hindsight, as it would boost our confidence in decision-making, especially regarding our health. However, most of us lack it. If you have severe hip joint issues, a hip replacement is a long-term solution. Let’s discuss what I wish I knew before hip replacement surgery to help you through a seamless recovery.
1. Recovery Takes Time
You might get back on your feet quickly after a hip replacement, but recovery varies for everyone. Some people start feeling better in a few weeks, but it usually takes about three months for the initial healing.
During this time, you should avoid bending your hip more than 90 degrees. Most feel much more mobile and have less pain in three months, but it can take up to two years for some to fully feel the benefits of the surgery.
2. Exercise Helps
Staying active is important not just during recovery but also for everyday life with your new hip. Follow your physiotherapist’s advice and stick to the recommended exercises to keep your hip safe.
While high-impact activities may not be suitable, you can enjoy low-impact exercises like swimming (once your wound has healed), golf, and cycling.
Some cyclists even use electric bikes to ease back into exercise without putting too much pressure on their hips.
3. You Need Support
After a hip replacement, you will need some daily help, especially during the first week. Arrange for someone to pick you up after surgery and help you settle in at home, as getting in and out of a car can be tricky. If you live alone, ask a friend or family member to stay with you or visit regularly.
You may feel tired and need to rest, and pain medication can make it harder to move safely. If you normally care for family members or pets, find someone to assist you. Preparing meals in advance can also be helpful.
4. Prepare Your Home
Making small changes at home can greatly aid your recovery. Ensure there’s enough space to move around with a walker or crutches and remove any tripping hazards like power cords or rugs. Since you can’t bend more than 90 degrees initially, keep everyday items at waist height. Consider getting a raised toilet seat and a shower chair. Setting up a recovery station with essentials like your phone, medication, tissues, the TV remote, and books can help you avoid getting up too much. If you usually sleep upstairs, think about setting up a sleeping area downstairs for convenience.
5. Prehab Pays
Don’t wait until after your hip replacement to start strengthening exercises. Booking a session with a physiotherapist for a pre-surgery program, known as “prehab,” can be very beneficial. Prehab focuses on strengthening your muscles before surgery, making recovery easier. Strengthening your muscles and improving flexibility can also help you prepare mentally and physically for the operation.
6. You’re on Your Feet Quicker Than Expected
Although a hip replacement isn’t a simple procedure, you will likely be back on your feet quickly after surgery. Most physiotherapists will encourage you to get out of bed and start putting weight on your new hip as soon as the anesthesia wears off. Starting physiotherapy right after surgery can speed up recovery and improve results. Your physiotherapist will give you exercises to do several times a day for the next few months.
Wrapping Up
If you’re struggling with pain and missing out on activities you enjoy, a hip replacement can provide a new lease on life. Therefore, knowing what I wish I knew before hip replacement surgery can help you recover faster than ever.
Visit Dr. Ugo at Ugo Ihekweazu, MD. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializes in performing next-generation hip and knee replacement surgeries with a high success rate. Call us at (713) 799-2300 for an appointment.