All phases of total hip replacement are important. These include hip replacement recovery, rehabilitation, anesthesia and preoperative pain management, post-operative pain management and the surgical technique.
Patients do best when they understand what is expected of them after surgery, as following instructions and protocols is very important. Your physician will provide specific instructions but there are general guidelines to follow.
24 Hours After Surgery
Within 24 hours of your surgery, a physical therapist will ask you to stand up and take a few steps with a cane or walker. Oftentimes, this is the day of your actual surgery. Patients who walk or stand on their new hip quickly after surgery are more likely to recover faster than patients who do not as this decreases the likelihood of complications.
Returning Home
Typically hip replacement patients are able to go directly home one to two days after surgery. Some patients may be discharged to a rehabilitation facility if they are not safe to return home. Our occupational and physical therapists assist the surgical and medical teams with this decision.
