Hip Replacement Surgery: Recovery And Rehabilitation

Recovering from a hip replacement surgery can involve a number of steps and stages, the first of which begins as soon as surgery is complete. This initial stage occurs in the hospital and, according to type of surgery performed, typically lasts between one and five days. In addition to the introduction of hip safety precautions, the first stage of recovery usually includes the following steps:

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• Learning simple bed exercises. 
• Learning to sit on the edge of a bed. 
• Standing or walking with the help of a walker. 
• Safely making the transition between the sitting and standing positions. 
• Performing simple exercises under a professional's supervision. 
• As recovery progresses, walking for longer distances and up stairs, both with assistance and independently. 
• Becoming comfortable with crutches and/or other walking devices. 
• Practicing daily activities like bathing, grooming, etc. 
• Learning to clean and dress the incision site. 

If inpatient recovery is needed, the patient will likely move to a residential rehabilitation facility. Here, the patient will receive several hours of physical therapy per day until mobility levels are improved.

Following the in-hospital stage, the recovery period continues at home. Prior to surgery, it's important for patients to prepare for this stage. These preparations, which often include taking time off work and planning to have help around the house, are essential to a healthy recovery. The following preparations are often necessary during the at-home stage of recovery.

• Planning transportation. Most hip replacement patients are not permitted to drive for up to six weeks after surgery. Patients should plan for the proper transportation to follow-up appointments, work, etc. 
• Maximizing comfort. Prior to surgery, it's important for patients to prepare their homes for the recovery period. This can include shopping and stocking the kitchen, addressing obstacles and possible dangers, setting up temporary sleeping headquarters on the ground floor of the home and getting caught up on laundry, cleaning, personal matters etc. 
• Getting help. Many patients ask a friend or relative to help during the recovery period. This can provide both safety and peace of mind during the initial stages of at-home recovery. 

Improving mobility is a primary goal during the at-home recovery period. Therefore, the patient will likely have scheduled appointments with a physical therapist. Prior to leaving the hospital, a doctor will determine the level of therapy best suited to the patient's individual needs. If the patient is well enough to go home, home therapy is often recommended. These sessions take place at home up to three days a week and involve exercises that help patient to improve strength and mobility. Typically, home sessions continue until the patient can safely attend sessions in an outpatient rehabilitation clinic.

Although hip replacement surgeries are generally considered safe and effective, these procedures are often associated with an increased risk of injury and malpractice. For example, due to product recalls, Stryker hip lawsuits are becoming increasingly common among hip replacement patients. However, when a hip replacement has performed properly, the odds of a successful recovery are greatly improved.

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Emma Summers

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Authored By: Emma Summers. Emma is a health blogger who writes in several communities spreadings tips on living healthy.

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