Hip replacement is a major surgery and recovery time can take from anytime between a couple of months to a year. As with all major surgeries, proper post operative care must be done afterwards. Rehabilitation is a team effort consisting of yourself as well as the medical team and a proper one will bring you back on the road to perfect health. Life after your hip replacement surgery will definitely change in one way or another. There will be activities that you will not be able to carry out in future and will limit you somehow, but it will not restrict you from leading a proper life.
Immediately after surgery, the rehabilitation process will kick in and special care will be administered to you. Compression socks may be required to improve blood flow around your body and prevent the formation of any blood clots. A day later, light exercises may be recommended by the physiotherapist.
Usage of walking aid
Patients are usually eager to walk immediately after surgery but that will put a huge strain on the lower part of the body. Crutches or walker will be given by the physiotherapist and any movement will need to rely on it.
Ergonomic chair
An ergonomic chair will effectively reduce any stress or strain on the lower body and place your entire body in the correct position for optima comfort. Ergonomic chairs provide a firm cushion with adjustable seat that will allow the knee to be lower than the hips.
Watch your weight
Extra body weight will create additional pressure on your hips and this will affect your recovery. Patients tend to binge on food after surgery as they are unable to do anything else. Maintain a healthy eating diet and prevent putting on extra weight.
Remove obstacles
Obstacles around the house such as wires must be removed prior to surgery so that they will not obstruct the walker or crutches. A seemly harmless wire can trip you and further aggravate your hip. If any part of the floor is slippery, place anti slip mats around.
A slow but progressive rehabilitation program will build up your mobility and flexibility. It will be frustrating initially as you are unable to do a lot of things. However, bear with it and do your physical therapy exercises several times a day to restore your flexibility and strengthen your hip joint.
