What to Expect When Recovering From Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure that can help to get you moving again without pain or joint dysfunction. But, before you can enjoy the benefits, like easier motion that comes after surgical hip replacement, you have to recover from the procedure.

At Twin Palm Orthopedics of Ocala, Florida, Dr. Derek Farr supports you throughout the process of reclaiming your full mobility. If Dr. Farr at Twin Palm Orthopedics recommends surgical hip replacement, what can you expect during recovery?

The benefits of hip replacement

Joint replacement surgeries are an effective way to address joint pain and dysfunction. Your hip joint might have deteriorated for several reasons, from wear-and-tear to degenerative conditions like arthritis. Or, you may have experienced an injury or trauma that impacts your hips.

When your hips hurt constantly, or it hurts to stand or walk, your quality of life suffers. During total hip replacement, Dr. Farr and the team at Twin Palm Orthopedics remove the damaged sections of your joint, so you don’t have to deal with dysfunctional hips anymore. Then, we repair your joint with prosthetic parts.

Your prosthetic joint can contain ceramic, metal, and plastic elements. After you recover from hip replacement surgery, your new joint moves easily and smoothly, so you can stay pain-free even after walking all day.

Dr. Farr uses state-of-the-art surgical technology to minimize your risks and recovery time. That includes Stryker® implants and Mako® robotic-arm-assisted technology.

Recovering from hip replacement

After surgery, some pain and swelling are expected. Your post-surgery pain management plan may include anti-inflammatory medications and ice pack therapy. If your pain levels feel too high, let Dr. Farr know, and we can adjust your pain management treatment as needed.

Many people can stand and even head home on the day of their surgical procedure. But you may need an overnight hospital stay for health monitoring. Once you get home, have a recovery area prepared for yourself, with everything you’ll need close by and plenty of assistance and support for activities like going to the bathroom.

Your physical therapy begins before your surgery and continues immediately after. Physical therapy helps your new joint gain strength and your body recover. You’ll work with a physical therapist at our location and continue physical therapy exercises at home.

Recovery typically takes 2-4 weeks. After about six weeks, your incisions should be healed. As your incision heals, take care to protect the area from infection. If you see warning signs of infection like redness, swelling, fever, or pus, let our team at Twin Palm Orthopedics know immediately.

Getting back into motion

Everyone recovers from joint replacement surgery differently. Depending on your condition, you may need an assistive device to help you get around as you recover. Dr. Farr discusses the details of your recovery plan prior to your procedure.

After you completely recover, you can enjoy a higher degree of activity than you were able to bear before. Getting back to work and athletic activities is an essential part of your recovery plan.

To learn more about hip replacement surgery and what to expect from post-surgery recovery, contact our team at Twin Palm Orthopedics. Schedule your initial consultation appointment online now, or call today to book.