A total hip replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure done to remove the damaged part of your hip joint and replace them with artificial joints made of metal, ceramic or very hard plastic. A partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) only replaces the ball of the hip joint; the hip socket remains strong and doesn’t need to be replaced. Surgeons continue to develop less invasive techniques, which might reduce recovery time and pain. Patients with severe hip disease opt for this procedure when conservative methods have failed to reduce pain and improve function.
Risks associated with hip replacement surgery can include:
A physiotherapist will educate you about what to expect from your surgery, and give you exercises to condition your body before surgery.
This includes:
After your surgery, you will be assisted in doing exercises in the hospital which you will continue doing at home to speed recovery. Your physical therapist will review any post-surgical precautions to take to prevent reinjury. As therapy progresses, you’ll usually increase the weight you put on your leg until you’re able to walk without assistance.
In acute care, you will be trained to:
Remember a few things to avoid:
As you progress in your recovery, you will continue to work on:
When you can perform these activities without help or guidance, you will be ready to fully function at home. However, you may still need to continue physical therapy in an outpatient clinic to work on range-of-motion (movement) and stretching exercises, and weight-bearing activities to restore your function to its highest possible level.
After you leave the hospital, you’ll continue physical therapy at home or at a center.
Do your exercises regularly, as instructed. For the best recovery, follow all of your care team’s instructions concerning wound care, diet and exercise.
