What To Expect From Hip Replacement Surgery?

Pain after a hip replacement

Definitely! You will experience pain while undergoing hip replacement surgery. So be prepared to witness pain and discomfort. However, you may get some relief after three days of the surgery. Unfortunately, you will experience a reduction in your mobility. Moreover, you will have to ask for help from your friends and family to carry out your everyday activities. You will require assistance while performing simple activities like getting out of your bed.

On the first day following surgery, you will be given pain medications to provide relief. Because of the medicines, you may not feel much pain. On the second day, you may take baby steps with the help of your friends or family. You can move around to fasten your recovery process.

On the third day, you may experience intense pain in your hip area. It is because your body sends numerous inflammatory cells to the injured area to aid the recovery process. As a result, you will experience pain and swelling at the surgical site. You can talk to your surgeon about different ways to control inflammation. For example, you can use an ice compress and anti-inflammatory medications to calm the swelling. Once you have completed day three, you will experience a reduction in pain and swelling.

Walking after hip replacement surgery

You can walk on your feet after a day of your hip replacement surgery. However, do not hurry and take only small steps. Moreover, do not challenge yourself to walk a mile. It is essential to get out of your bed and start walking to get a faster recovery. After day one, try to exercise for 20-30 minutes every day. Slow exercises can involve gentle walks and breathing techniques.

Moving around not only aids recovery but also prevents the chances of blood clots in your legs and feet. The increased blood circulation in your legs avoids clumps. Unfortunately, it is a significant complication that follows every surgical process. However, you can control lumps through early movements and exercises.

Walking and getting out of bed also provides strength to your leg muscles. Moreover, it prevents stiffness in your new hips. Before returning to your home, you must learn to walk correctly using a cane or walker.

Your hip replacement recovery checklist

You can go back to your home after four days following hip replacement surgery. However, before getting discharged from the hospital, you must make sure that:

  • You do not need any assistance while getting out of your bed.
  • You do not experience intense pain at the surgical site. Your pain must be manageable.
  • You can perform your everyday activities efficiently. For example, you can eat, drink, sleep, go to the bathroom, and get up from bed without any help.
  • You can use a cane or walker.
  • You know how to perform home exercises for a faster recovery.
  • You know the pain management techniques. Moreover, you must learn how to prevent hip injury efficiently.

Before going to your home, make sure that someone accompanies you. You can ask your friend, family, or a caregiver to be with you for your ease. If you want to undergo hip replacement surgery under an expert, you may contact Dr. Rewat Laxman.