Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery is a major procedure, which will involve a considerable recovery process. You should be prepared to commit time to a full recovery in order to achieve the best possible final results from your surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the recovery aspects with you at the time of the pre-operative consultation.
Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Preventing Blood Clot Formation
To minimize your risk of blood clotting in the legs after your hip replacement surgery, the following measures may help during recovery:
Early mobilization
It is best to sit up and even try mild walking with a walker or crutches soon after your surgery. Your surgeon may recommend this type of mobilization the same day or the next day after your surgery.
Pressure application
You may wear compression stockings or inflatable air sleeves on your lower legs during as well as after your hip replacement surgery. The pressure this will exert on your legs will prevent the pooling of blood in your leg veins.
Blood thinning medications
You may have to take prescription blood thinners, either orally or through injections after your surgery. Depending on your activity level post-surgery and your general clotting risks, your blood thinning meds may continue for a few weeks after the surgery.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a vital part of the recovery process after hip replacement surgery. A trained physical therapist can help you learn specific exercises that you can perform in the hospital as well as at your home to expedite recovery.
Exercises and regular physical activity will have to be a part of your daily routine to help you regain the use of your hip joint and muscles. Follow the advice of your physical therapist regarding mobility and strengthening exercises.
The therapist will also guide you about the right way to use a walking aid, such as crutches, cane or walker. As your physical therapy progresses, you will gradually increase the weight you place on your leg until you are able to walk freely without any assistance.
Recovery at Home and Follow-up Care
You and your caregiver will receive post-operative care guidelines from your surgeon before you leave for home. To ensure a smooth transition:
- Enlist the help of a family member or friend to assist with household chores or meal preparation for a few days
- To avoid bending down or reaching up, place the items of daily use at waist level at home
- Consider a few home modifications, such as a raised toilet seat
- Be diligent about your follow-up appointments with the surgeon in order to ensure that your hip is healing well
You can expect to return to your normal activities in about six to 12 weeks, if your recovery progresses well. The strength in your leg and hip will continue to improve for the next several months.
Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for hip replacement surgery.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.