After a hip replacement the hospital stay is usually 1 to 2 days; full recovery takes several months and mild to moderate swelling can last 3 to 6 months [1]. For the first 6 to 8 weeks you avoid crossing the legs and bending the hip beyond 90 degrees [1].
How does recovery go?
Most patients stay in hospital for 1 to 2 days. Improvement is gradual; full recovery takes several months and mild to moderate swelling can persist for 3 to 6 months after surgery [1].
What to watch for in the first 6 to 8 weeks
During this period do not cross your knees, do not bend the hip beyond 90 degrees and do not lean forward when sitting. Keep the operated leg facing forward and use higher chairs [1].
Returning to daily life
Driving: once you are off opioid painkillers and your reflexes are back to normal [1].
Sex: usually safe within several weeks; talk to your surgeon [1].
Work: weeks to months, depending on how demanding the job is [1].
Sport: walking and swimming are excellent; lower-impact activities such as golf and cycling are preferred to high-impact sport. Once the wound has healed, swimming is an excellent low-impact activity [1].
Exercise
Continue the prescribed physiotherapy exercises for at least 2 months [1].
Symptoms that need prompt attention
Infection: fever above 38 °C (100 °F), increasing redness, wound drainage and worsening pain [1].
Blood clot: unexplained leg or calf pain, severe swelling that does not settle with elevation; if you have shortness of breath or chest pain, seek emergency care [1].
Frequently asked questions
- How long will I stay in hospital?
- Most patients stay 1 to 2 days [1].
- When can I drive?
- Once you are off opioid painkillers and your reflexes are normal [1].
- Which sports can I do?
- Walking and swimming are excellent; lower-impact activities such as golf and cycling are preferred [1].
- How long does swelling last?
- Mild to moderate swelling can last 3 to 6 months [1].
This is a general summary; the restrictions and timing are set by the instructions of the surgeon who operated.
Sources
- Activities After Hip Replacement. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo), n.d.. orthoinfo.org
This article is general information and does not replace an examination or imaging. If you have symptoms, see a doctor.