Recovery After Hip Replacement Surgery

Once you have undergone hip replacement surgery, your recovery would depend on number of contributing factors that influence recovery time. It would be essential to understand that hip replacement is a major surgery and it would be nice to understand that staying positive and optimistic about the surgical procedure will speed the recovery times. It is also essential to understand that your medical team will ensure and facilitate speedy recovery and will have to work with you, so your active participation is a must.

Recovery After Hip Replacement Surgery

Once the hip replacement surgery is over, the usual procedure entails shifting to the recovery room, where you would be observed for proper functioning of your vital organs. Pain is very common after surgery, and will be effectively managed with medication to make you feel as comfortable as possible.  Your typical stay in the hospital will be here to four days, after which you will be discharged for home sty. The pain should be minimalist and you should be able to walk with the help of a walker.It is also advised to make adequate preparation at home to speed up the recovery process. Precautions like use of anti-slip mats and cumbersome entries to toilets should be arranged. It is good to organize medical supplies and aids. Having medications at the proper time is also an essential. The impact of pain management on recovery cannot be emphasized enough and proper pain counseling should be received prior to the surgery. This would ensure compliance to these medications.

Incision Care

A vital part of the recovery phase involves caring for your incision. Depending on the type of sutures, you might have to visit the hospital for removal of stitches or they might be self-absorbing. This area usually may me itchy, have a burning sensation, which is normal. Over the period of time, this sensation may change to tingling sensation, indicating their healing. Your doctor would surely review their healing each time you visit the hospital for review. Keep the area dry to prevent any infection and also restrict the use of creams, lotions or ointments. Doctor may advise use of few antiseptic solutions to keep the wound clean. Post removal of stitches, it is advised to keep the wound dry for 48 hours.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy usually compromises of specific physical exercises that ill help in strengthening the hip joint. This is done during the first six weeks and the way you comply to the physical routine would determine your recovery. These exercises usually comprise of contracting and releasing the muscles in your legs and buttocks, and ankle pumps.Patients should feel encouraged and should consider physical therapy as an integral part of their recovery. Your physical therapy sessions will begin the first day after surgery. However, it is important that you do not stretch your limits and end up falling, since it can be very hazardous. Avoid using stairs till you are fully recovered. Use of supporting devices like cane, crutches, walker and handrails is suggested. The physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to regain full hip movement. During your hospital stay, you will work with a physical therapist one to two times per day. An occupational therapist and nurse discharge planner will also be shared with you to help you keep updated with the exercise routine. Also Read: Hip Replacement Surgery: For Comfort & Functionality.You would also be advised to follow-up routinely to know your progress about hip replacement surgery and to help physician assess your healing.