Things to Expect After a Total Hip Replacement Surgery

A hip replacement surgery is performed when the hip joint is damaged or worn out due to which, it affects the mobility and cause pain. One of the major reasons as to why a hip replacement surgery is performed is AVN, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and in fractures around hip with osteoarthritis changes in hip joint. Our hip replacement surgeons in Pune will guide you through some of the important points pertaining to what one should expect after a hip replacement surgery. It is important to understand all the phases of a total hip replacement are highly essential for smooth recovery including pre-operative activities, type of surgery performed, anaesthesia for the procedure, including post-operative pain management, and physiotherapy protocol.
We strongly believe that patients are likely to recover efficiently and smoothly when they are aware of what they should expect post-surgery and adhere to the post-surgical protocols given to them. Our expert hip replacement surgeons in Pune have listed down a few easy-to-understand guidelines and shared valuable insights as to what patients should expect after a total hip replacement surgery.
24 Hours Post Surgery
A day after the surgery, your physiotherapy sessions will begin in which, your physiotherapist will recommend exercises and mobilization (movement) with a cane or a walker. It is essential to note that patients who are able to stand or walk after a total hip replacement surgery are likely to recover faster than patients who are immobile. The degree of pain one experiences is likely to be monitored periodically and multiple pain-reliving alternatives will be given to you to ensure you have a comfortable stay at the hospital. Often, patients are discharged once they can get out of the bed on their own, walk around for a short distance, and show signs of smooth recovery.
Discharge Time
In most cases, a patient who has undergone a total hip replacement surgery is likely to be discharged within 3-4 days after the surgery. However, some patients may be transferred to a rehabilitation centre if additional assistance is required. Our team of experts closely monitor the patient’s progress upon which, the discharge period is decided. Moreover, it essential to note that most patients can resume most of the activities around six weeks after the surgery. However, if both hips are replaced, the hospital stay along with the recovery period may be longer than usual.
At Home and Medication
Once you are home, you will be advised to follow a stringent routine which incorporates a host of strengthening exercises and pain monitoring activities. Depending upon the recovery process, age, and certain other factors, the doctors will prescribe certain medicines which will have to be consumed as prescribed by the doctor.
Driving
Driving would not be recommended for minimum 12 weeks, but could vary person to person depending upon the recovery.
Lifestyle
Often, patients tend to become more active post-surgery as they can move around without any complaints. During physical therapy, cycling, slow tennis, swimming, and golfing are deemed safe and encouraged after you are done with your routing physiotherapy sessions & proper recovery has taken place for mobility. Patients should avoid indulging in high impact sports or activities including football, basketball, jogging, to ensure your extra pressure is not added to your hips.
All in all, one should adhere to the instructions given to them to them by the medical professionals to ensure a smooth recovery. If you are considering a total hip replacement surgery in Pune, schedule an appointment with us today to know more!