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Hip replacements are not to be taken lightly, and neither is the recovery process. If you just had a hip replacement surgery, or are planning on getting one soon, keep these tips in mind to help you recover as quickly and painlessly as possible.

At the Hospital

Immediately after your surgery, it is likely that you will spend a few days in the hospital. Here, you will undergo some exercises to help prevent blood clots and minimize scar tissue. During the first few days:

• You will be on prescribed medication to help ease the pain.

• You will have daily physical therapy under the supervision of a licensed specialist.

• Take your medication before these physical therapy sessions. The less pain you have, the more actively you can engage in these exercises, which is beneficial for optimal recovery.

At Home

If all is well, you will be released from the hospital after a few days, but this doesn’t mean that you are ready to resume normal activity. You will still be in a significant amount of pain, and likely unable to bear much weight on your recovering joint.

• Physical therapy continues to be important for the next six-eight weeks. Those who actively engage in their prescribed therapy make faster, fuller recoveries than those who don’t.

• If you live in a multi-floor home, have family members or neighbors move your bed to the first floor. Climbing stairs will be out of the question, at least for now.

• Consult with your doctor about all weight-bearing activities.

Extra Precautions

• Follow the 90-degree rule. Don’t bend your hip more than 90 degrees; meaning that your knee should never go above your hip.

• Don’t sit in low chairs or couches with soft cushions where you will sink in.

• Avoid leaning forward while sitting down.

• Don’t cross your legs while sitting or laying down.

• Walk and stand with your feet straight – avoid being pigeon-toed or bow-legged.

Another key step to a successful hip replacement surgery is having it performed by an expert team of medical professionals. If you live in Connecticut, don’t trust anyone but Orthopaedic Specialty Group with your hip replacement. As Fairfield County’s largest orthopedic practitioner, we have the people and the tools necessary to get the job done right. Visit our website to learn more about our hip procedures, or call (203) 337-2600 and schedule a consultation.