It can take up to six months for a full recovery from hip replacement surgery, but by following the right exercises provided by one's surgeon, recovery will be quicker. Communication with the surgeon is important to find the appropriate level of activity following surgery for each individual.
Movement Guidelines to Follow After Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgeons give advice after surgery on how to properly get out of bed, sit, walk, and other activities following surgery. Friends or family members can help by understanding these exercises and ensuring that proper movements are used to speed along the recovery process.
a. When getting out of bed, the recovering individual should get out on the same side as the hip which was recently operated on. Pivoting around and keeping the operative leg straight - not twisting the leg - is important. Finally, the patient should sit on the edge of the bed and use crutches or a walker for support in order to stand up, without bending forward.
b. Those recovering from surgery should sit in firm, supportive chairs that have a straight back, high seat and armrests. Chairs, sofas, or any other type of furniture that sits lower to the ground are not a good idea. The operative leg should always be elevated to reduce swelling and you should not flex the operative hip past 90 degrees.
c. It is usually necessary to use a walker or crutches for several weeks post-surgery. The patient should not put any weight on the operative leg for There may be some changes in lifestyle, such as keeping items on shelves which won't require bending. The hip replacement surgeon will advise of risky movements which should be avoided.
Follow the Exercises Given by a Hip Replacement Surgeon
There are many exercises which can be used to speed along recovery following surgery. Some of these exercises include:
a. Ankle pumps and rotations: While lying flat on their back, an individual can slowly push their foot up and down. These ankle pumps can begin after surgery and continue throughout the recovery, for about five to 10 minutes each day. Additionally, they can move their ankle in (towards the other foot) and then out, for rotations which should be done just as frequently.
b. Knee bends: While lying in bed, the individual should slide their heel towards their buttocks, keeping their heel on the bed. It's important not to let the knee fall outward. This can be done several times a day.
c. Quadriceps set: Also while lying in bed, one can tighten the thigh muscles and try to straighten their knee. Attempt to hold this for 5 to 10 seconds.
There are hundreds of exercises to use for a quick recovery from surgery. However, the best and most important exercises to follow are those that are provided by hip replacement surgeons, as they are customized to the unique needs of a medical traveler.
Create a Recovery Safe Zone
A recovery safe zone will help recover from hip replacement surgery. This includes a comfortable sleeping area, as an individual is likely to spend a majority of his or her time in bed. The room should also allow an area for doing standing exercises and walking.
It's important that this sleeping area be within safe walking distance of a bathroom without the need to climb up or down stairs, as well as access to food. A safe zone for recovery from hip replacement surgery should be stripped of any obstacles, keeping in mind that the individual will be using crutches and/or a walker when they do get up and move around.
Support from Family and Loved Ones
One of the most important elements that contribute to a healthy, speedy recovery following any surgery is the companionship and support of friends and family members. Aside from encouraging a loved one to follow the instructions of hip replacement surgeons and do their exercises, the simple presence and conversation can go a long way when somebody is bedridden and recovering post-surgery.
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