Do you want to resolve your hip issues with hip replacement surgery? Nowadays, hip replacement is the best solution for people with stability issues and excess hip pain. You should know what to prepare before, during and after the hip replacement procedure that will help you to prepare your mind for speedy recovery. In this blog, let us discuss everything about hip replacement preparation and post-surgery care for hip replacement:
Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery
Let us understand the hip replacement preparation steps that you should take before opting out for surgery:
- Pre-operative Tests
You should undergo an ECG, blood tests and other medical check-ups to ensure you are medically fit for hip replacement surgery.
- Home Preparation
Ensure to make your house recover-friendly by placing required items within easy reach and creating a safe path for walking.
- Lifestyle Changes
Your doctor might recommend you adjust any medicines to reduce surgical risks.
- Stop Smoking
If you are smoking, it might increase your complication risk. It is best to quit smoking before two months of hip replacement procedure.
- Prioritize Healthy Eating
Try to lose weight before your hip replacement surgery. It is best to eat diet rich food such as whole grains, healthy fats, fruits, veggies, nuts and moderate amounts of meat. You can also consume a high amount of protein after your hip replacement as your body will need energy to bounce back.
What Happens During Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip Replacement surgery takes 2 to 3 hours. It starts with general or spinal anaesthesia that is followed by an incision in the hip. The damaged hip part is removed and replaced with a new prosthesis and the cut is closed. You will have to stay in the hospital for 3 days after performing hip replacement procedure.
Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery Time
Hip replacement recovery time takes place in stages that need proper care:
- Initial Recovery Time
You are encouraged to walk with support within 24 hours of your hip replacement. Pain is managed through ice packs and medicines while early physiotherapy aids in preventing stiffness.
- Home Recovery Time
You may take help of crutches for support and ensure to avoid bending. Ensure to sleep with a pillow between legs and follow a proper meal plan for sound healing.
- Long-Term Recovery Time
Complete recovery after hip replacement surgery might take 3 to 6 months depending on your fitness. You may resume mild physical activity including cycling but avoid high-impact physical activity such as jumping or even running.
Best Exercises After Hip Replacement
Let us discuss the best exercises after hip replacement that you should perform to improve flexibility:
Exercises for Early Hip Replacement Recovery
- Quad sets: You should perform a quad set to tighten tight muscles for at least 5 seconds
- Glute Squeeze: Perform a Glute Squeeze to strengthen your buttock muscles
- Ankle Pumps: You can move ankles up and down to avoid the formation of blood clots.
Exercises for Intermediate Hip Replacement Recovery
- Heel Slides: Try to bend and straighten the knee
- Leg Raises: Try to lift your leg while lying on the bed
- Standing Hip Abduction: Ensure to lift the leg sideways to strengthen your hip
Exercises for Advanced Hip Replacement Recovery
- Avoid Twisting movement and Sports to protect the new hip joint
- Perform light step-ups to improve joint mobility
- Perform cycling for a minimum 3 months
Walking After Hip Replacement
Ensure to walk after your hip replacement procedure. Make sure to walk normally and avoid extreme movements that might increase dislocation risk. As such there is no particular type of shoe to wear, but you can make your life easy. Walking after hip replacement becomes difficult with shoelaces. So, it is better to invest in good shoes without shoelaces. Also, be sure to avoid wearing high heels for a few months after your hip replacement surgery.
