Having a hip replacement - Part Two: Recovery

How long until you feel better after a new hip?

Getting a new hip is a big change for your body. Here is what you might want to know:

• Time to heal: It can take a few weeks to start feeling better. Most people take about 6 weeks to walk easily and a few months to feel strong again.
• Move slowly: At first, you should move slowly and be careful. Use crutches or a walker if you need to.
• Get help: Ask family or friends for help with cooking, cleaning, or shopping.
• Talk to your doctor: Your doctor will tell you the best exercises to do. Follow their advice to heal well.

If you want more help:

• Use a calendar to track your progress each week.
• Set small goals, like walking more each day.
• Ask a nurse or therapist if you have questions.

What fun things can I do after a hip surgery?

When can I drive after hip replacement surgery?

After you have hip surgery, you might wonder when you can drive a car again. Driving is important for getting around and being independent.

Here are some things to help you:

• Ask your doctor: Your doctor knows what is best for you. They will tell you when it is safe to drive.
• Wait a few weeks: Most people need to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery before driving.
• See how you feel: Make sure you do not feel any pain and can move your leg easily before driving.
• Practice with someone: Have a grown-up or friend sit with you in the car the first time you drive. This way, they can help if you need it.

Remember, it is important to be safe. Always wear your seatbelt and follow the rules of the road.

When can I go back to work after a hip operation?

Had a hip operation? Want to know when you can start working again? Here are some things to think about:

• Talk to your doctor. They can tell you when it's safe to work again.
• Rest is important. Listen to your body and don't rush.
• Use support, like crutches, if you need help walking.
• Start with easy tasks and slowly add more difficult ones.

If you need help, you can:

• Ask family or friends to assist you at home.
• Use tools like planners to keep track of your work tasks.

What signs should I look for while getting better?

Can I fly in an airplane after hip surgery?

If you had surgery on your hip, talk to your doctor before flying. They will tell you when it is safe to travel.

Here are some tips to help you:

• Wear loose clothes for comfort.
• Move your legs gently during the flight.
• Ask for help if you need it.

Using pillows for support can help you stay comfortable.

How can I make my home safe for my recovery?

Here are some ways to make your home safe:

• Remove things on the floor you might trip on.
• Put things you use often in easy-to-reach places.
• Ask someone to check your home for safety.
• Use non-slip mats in the bathroom.
• Make sure lights are bright so you can see well.

If doing this is hard, ask a friend or family member to help you.

What care do I need after my treatment?

After your treatment, you might need some special care to help you get better. This help is called follow-up care. Here are a few things you might need:

• Regular check-ups with your doctor
• Medicines to help you feel better
• Healthy food and exercise
• Talking to someone who can give you advice, like a counselor or therapist

Talk to your doctor to know more about what you need. You can also ask your family or friends for help.

What should I eat to get better after hip surgery?

After hip surgery, eating well helps you heal. Here are some tips:

• Eat fruits and veggies: They give your body vitamins to get better.
• Have protein: Like chicken, fish, eggs, or beans. This helps your body repair.
• Drink water: Water keeps your body healthy.
• Avoid junk food: Try not to eat too much candy or chips.

If you find reading hard, ask someone to read this with you. You can also use apps or tools that read text out loud. They can help you understand better.

Will I need help moving after a new hip?

After getting a new hip, you might need help to move better. This is called physiotherapy.

A physiotherapist is a special doctor. They can show you good exercises. These exercises help make your new hip strong and help you walk well.

Ask your doctor if you need physiotherapy after your operation. It can help you feel better faster.

Can I go up and down stairs after hip surgery?

Will I need crutches or a walking help after surgery?

After your surgery, you might need some help to walk. Crutches or a walking stick can help you move around.

If you feel unsure, ask a nurse or doctor. They can tell you what is best for you.

You can also try using a chair with wheels or ask a friend to help you for a short time.

What rules do you follow after a hip operation?

After a hip operation, you might have some rules to follow for a long time.

These are things like:

• Be careful when bending down.
• Try not to cross your legs.
• Use a chair that is higher up.

These rules help keep your new hip safe and working well.

Ask your doctor or nurse for tips. They can show you how to move safely.

Using tools like grabbers can help you pick up things without bending.

How can I handle pain after a hip replacement?

Here are some ways to help with pain:

• Take your pain medicine. The doctor will tell you how much to take.
• Use ice packs on your hip. Ice can help to feel less pain.
• Rest when you need to. It's okay to take breaks and relax.
• Try gentle exercises. Your doctor or therapist will show you how.
• If you have questions, ask your doctor.

Helpful tool: Use a pillow to support your leg when sitting or lying down.

Why is it important to follow doctor's orders after surgery?

After surgery, it is very important to do what the doctor says. This helps you get better faster and stay safe.

Here are some tips to help:

• Ask the doctor any questions you have before going home.
• Write down or get a copy of the instructions if you can.
• Have someone with you who can help you remember the doctor's orders.
• Use a calendar or a checklist to keep track of things you need to do.