How Little Modifications Can Help You Recover Better after a Hip Replacement Surgery?

Though the recovery rate of hip replacement surgery is faster than before, it is normal to feel apprehensive before deciding on it. A little bit of preparation on your part can ease the post-surgery woes to a great extent. Here’s what you can do.

Before Surgery

You will need some assistance at home for at least a few weeks after discharge. So before the surgery, arrange for a family member, a friend, or a professional caregiver to assist you at home. Also, remember to reposition your furniture so you can easily manoeuvre with crutches, walkers, or cranes. Place the items you would need regularly, well within your reach. It would reduce the need to unnecessarily bend down or reach out. This helps in a speedier recovery. 

Right after Surgery

Post-surgery, you would get transferred to your what. Apart from pain management, the nurses would closely monitor your vitals to ensure your stability. A physical therapist would visit you to chalk out an exercise program. They will encourage you to get out of bed on the same day if you manage. 

Post Discharge

Depending on several variables, your doctor would decide whether you need rehab or can be directly discharged home. Your physiotherapist will continue visiting you for the next three weeks. They would help you to increase your strength to walk and manage the pain. Given that muscle strength has a big major role to play in faster recovery, physiotherapists often suggest resistance workouts for knee and hip muscles.

Home Recovery 

While staying at home:

• Let go of area rugs, electrical cords, and anything that might make you slip.
• Get a firm chair instead of a soft-cushioned and low one to sit in.
• Make you of assistive devices like gripping bars, shower chairs, long-handled sponges, and raised seats in your bathroom. 

Wound Care

During the recovery period, it is necessary to keep your wound dry and clean. Typically, your surgeon would not advise you to remove the dressing for about 7-10 days. Your caregiver needs to know how to manage it. Let your doctor know immediately in case the wound starts to drain or appear red. This is the symptom of infection. 

Medication

Talk to your doctor if you wish to take some over-the-counter medicines for a speedier recovery. And take care to hinder the growth of any type of bacterial infection on the joints. 

Diet

You can enjoy a normal diet after surgery. But avoid fried & Oily Foods. Avoid Caffeinated Drinks, alcohol and smoking, as well. 

You are likely to resume your normal activities within 12 weeks of surgery.