Hip replacement is very good at relieving pain and restoring mobility, but recovery takes patience and consistent rehab work. Here's what to expect at each stage.
Before surgery: preparation
Recovery planning starts before the operation:
- Arrange for someone to help at home for the first 1-2 weeks
- Set up a recovery area on the main floor to avoid stairs
- Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals
- Complete pre-surgical physical therapy ("prehab") if recommended
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and cords
Week 1: hospital and early home recovery
- Day of surgery: Most patients stand and take a few steps within hours
- Days 1-2: Walking with a walker in the hospital; discharge (many patients go home day 1 or 2)
- Days 3-7: Home recovery with a walker, pain management, ice therapy, and gentle exercises
- Goal for the week: Walk short distances safely with a walker
Weeks 2-3: building confidence
- Transition from walker to cane (as directed by your surgeon or physical therapist)
- Begin outpatient physical therapy, typically 2-3 times per week
- Shower independently (with precautions)
- Increase walking distance gradually
- Start gentle exercises: ankle pumps, quad sets, heel slides
Weeks 4-6: increasing independence
- Many patients drive again at 4-6 weeks (if off narcotic pain medication)
- Walking without an assistive device (for most patients)
- Return to desk work or remote work
- Physical therapy shifts toward strength, balance, and gait normalization
Months 2-3: back to normal activities
- Resume most daily activities including light housework and errands
- Begin low-impact exercise: stationary bike, swimming, walking
- Physical therapy may continue or transition to a home exercise program
- Most patients report significant pain relief by this point
Months 3-6: full recovery
- Return to recreational activities (golf, cycling, hiking, doubles tennis)
- Continued improvement in strength and endurance
- Final follow-up with surgeon at 6 months or 1 year
- Maximum benefit is typically reached by 6-12 months
Activities to avoid
Most surgeons recommend permanently avoiding:
- High-impact sports (running, basketball, singles tennis)
- Deep squatting
- Crossing your legs (especially in early recovery)
- Activities with high fall risk
When to call your surgeon
Contact your surgeon if you experience:
- Increasing pain, redness, or warmth around the incision
- Fever above 101°F
- Sudden calf swelling or pain (may indicate a blood clot)
- Drainage from the wound
- A feeling that the hip is "giving way"
