Undergoing hip replacement surgery is an arduous experience, and after the surgery, your experience isn't completely over as there's still recovery to go through. However, following your doctor's recovery instructions can lead to a significantly healthier hip in the future, without the pain and stiffness that lead you to get a hip replacement in the first place. Some preparation before surgery can also help make for a better experience when you're back home.
After Surgery
Directly after surgery, you will be monitored as the anesthetic used during the operation wears off. Once you are awake, unsurprisingly your hip will hurt. Don't worry -- painkillers should be readily available. You will have to breathe differently than you normally do, taking long breaths and coughing often. This keeps fluid from filling up in the lungs post-operation. You might have to put a pillow between your legs to make sure they're in the proper position.
Hospital Therapy
Most hip replacement patients stay in the hospital for a few days after the operation, but that doesn't mean that they spend that time in bed. The recovery process begins almost immediately after surgery. You will start physical therapy as soon as possible after surgery, often the day of the operation. Physical therapists will help you walk, do balance exercises, and get in and out of bed. It's important to get started right away to maximize hip function.
At Home
Once you come home, keep moving. You will need a walking support such as a cane, crutches, or walker but use them as much as possible. The more exercise you get, the better your body will accept the hip replacement. Certain movements should be avoided, however, in order to keep the joint in place. Your surgeon will give you a list of those movements, but in general you should avoid extreme hip rotation (such as crossing your legs) and bending forward. Low furniture should also be avoided. You can usually shower soon after you arrive home if not immediately after. Remember to eat healthy and drink a lot of fluid --- this helps the incision heal.
Complications
Serious complications after hip replacement surgery are rare (only two percent of patients experience them), but they do occur. Blood clots can form during the first weeks after surgery. Signs of a blood clot include pain in the calf and leg (away from the surgical incision), a tender or red calf, and a swollen leg. Clots can travel to the lungs, which is an emergency situation: symptoms include chest pain, painful breathing, and shortness of breath. The incision may also become infected. Symptoms of infection include redness or pain around the incision area, fluid dripping from the incision, worsening pain in the incision area, fever, and chills.
Preparation
Some preparation pre-surgery can help you recover more quickly and more happily. Make sure that your house is "hip-proofed" by removing loose items on the floor, such as rugs, or anything that can be easily tripped over. If your bedroom is on the second floor, move your bed (and other necessities, such as clothes and bathroom items) to the first floor, so you don't have to climb stairs. Getting meals ready in advance and freezing them can also help.
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