Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement is a major orthopedic surgery procedure, which will involve a significant recovery process. Depending on your extent of surgery and your general health condition, you may be able to return home the same day after your surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the estimated recovery with you during your initial 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.
Recovery Process
Most patients may be ready to walk with the assistance of walker or another support device within 24 hours after their hip replacement procedure. You may require guidance from a physical therapist who will teach you how to move safely while taking care of your new hip as it heals. The precise recovery process and guidelines will vary from one patient to another, but in general you should follow these suggestions:
- Seek approval from your surgeon before you return to work or resume your daily routine.
- Activities such as driving should be resumed depending on your hip function and the type of pain medications you are taking.
- If you have a sedentary job, you may be able to go back to work in about one month after your hip replacement.
- If your nature of work involves standing for long hours, lifting heavy objects, or bending, you may have to wait for about two months before you resume work.
- Heavy manual labor should anyway be avoided after hip replacement.
- Your full recovery may take anywhere from three to 12 months.
Resumption of physical activities such as yoga, golf, hiking, or other sports should be done only after consulting with your surgeon.
Taking Care of Your New Hip
Your new hip will last long or permanently, provided you take proper care. The care instructions may vary depending on your specific condition, but in general you should:
- Avoid twisting your hip
- Avoid bending your hip excessively during any activity
- Do not swivel on the ball of your foot
- Take small steps when you turn around
- During the early healing stage, avoid lying on your side to minimize pressure on the hip
- Avoid crossing your legs over each other
- Avoid low toilet seats or low chairs
- Do not forcibly perform any activity that makes your hip feel uncomfortable
Steps to Improve Your Recovery
Once your surgeon allows you to resume exercises, get into a regular, healthy exercise routine. Movement is a vital part of a healthy recovery after hip replacement. Pay attention to your body weight and follow a balanced diet along with an active lifestyle. If you are overweight, it can put strain on your new hip and increase its wear or risk of complications.
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 Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
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.