Tips for After Hip Surgery Care and Precautions

Total hip replacement is a significant surgery that impacts your mobility, comfort, and everyday activities for a substantial period. For the quickest and safest recovery, it's important to follow doctors' instructions and report any unexpected complications/difficulties that you experience.

Although it is major surgery, hip replacement carries a low risk of complications. Infections are always possible during hip surgery recovery but occur in fewer than two percent of cases. The highest chance of experiencing a severe infection while recovering comes from having dental work done after surgery. If you need to have dental work, a course of antibiotics will help prevent disease in your hip. If you develop symptoms of infection anywhere in your body while recovering from hip surgery, let your doctor know right away.

In Hospital Care

How long you stay hospital care after hip replacement surgery will depend on what your surgeon and doctors think is best. During your hospital stay, you will probably begin working with a physical therapist. They will help you learn to use your new hip and guide you through recommended pain medication, physical therapy, and exercises.

At-Home Exercises and Care

When leaving the hospital, you'll be given instructions and after hip surgery exercises for lifestyle changes that you'll need to implement while recovering at home. One of the most significant concerns post-surgery is the development of blood clots. To avoid blood clot formation, you'll be instructed to stay mobile. Even if you cannot walk far or have a limited range of motion, you should sit up and stand throughout the day. You may also need to wear compression stockings or take blood thinners if your doctor feels you are at risk.

You must consider mobility and safety while recovering at home from hip surgery. You may need assistive devices, and you will probably need to limit your activities for several weeks to avoid reinjuring yourself. Have a cane, walker, or crutches on hand so that you have options for getting around the house. Prepare your bathroom ahead of time to make sure it's safe and comfortable for you to use. A raised toilet seat with handles makes it easier to sit down. Its handlebars and a seat in the tub allow you to bathe without the risk of falling.

Don't Go Through Hip Surgery Recovery Alone

Having helpers around will make your post-surgery recovery much more comfortable and more enjoyable. They can help you adjust and cope with your new hip. If you have no one to stay with you, have a cell phone or communication device on you at all times. In the case of a fall, you will be glad you have it.

Recovering from surgery is a long process. Do the following to make recovery more efficient, easy, and effective:

• Following your medical caregiver's instructions
• Taking the precautions to make your house safe and accessible
• Have the proper post surgery aids to make daily tasks and pain more manageable
• Have someone around or on call to help you

These tips will help ensure your hip surgery recovery goes as smooth as possible.