In the U.S. alone, more than 300,000 hip replacements are performed yearly. While the surgery is often a life-changing event for the patient, it can also be a devastating financial burden, not only because of medical expenses but also due to downtime and rest, which are required after the procedure. The good news is that there are ways to prepare for the surgery, recover more quickly, and minimize the risk of complications.
You can have a successful surgery, and that depends on your doctor but also depends on you. The recovery time is one of the most critical aspects to achieving complete success, and it is in your hands.
By this point, you’re probably wondering: what’s it like to recover from a hip replacement? Is it painful? Is there any kind of rehab? How long does the recovery take? The answers to these questions are essential to make informed decisions about whether or not to undergo the procedure and how to prepare for it at home and your job.
Given the importance of this topic, we have devoted an entire article to talking about it. Here’s what you need to know about the recovery process and what you can do to minimize the chances of a bad outcome.
How much time should I rest after the hip replacement?
Hip replacement surgery is a standard procedure for treating hip arthritis, joint pain, and other mechanical problems in your hips. It involves replacing the worn-out part of the hip with a prosthetic device.
There are different variants and techniques to perform one of these surgeries. The one appropriate for you depends on different factors, including the type of damage in your hip and the extent of such damage. The anatomy of your femur and pelvis will also play an important role in deciding what approach and materials suit you. These variants will also change your recovery time.
However, in most cases, you will be back doing your everyday activities and be ready for work in 3 to 6 weeks. After this period, you may still feel some mild discomfort at night or when you wake up, which can last for a few extra weeks. However, we recommend discussing this and any other symptom with your doctor to ensure everything is alright.