Hip Replacement Rehabilitation

A hip replacement surgery is considered to be a significant surgery in a human body. It has been observed that the hip replacement surgery has had maximum number of satisfied patients after the surgery. The success rate of a hip replacement surgery is very high and the recovery is done within few months. The success however depends on the rehabilitation period after the surgery. Hip replacement rehabilitation is a very important stage after the surgery.

Activities after the surgery

The first few days after the hip replacement surgery are spent in the hospital. Hip replacement rehabilitation program begins from this stage after the surgery. Surgeons advise the patient to start early activities which help reducing the chances of stiffness ands blood clotting in the veins. Surgeons can also use medications for this purpose.

The pain experienced after hip replacement surgery is not intolerable. Surgeons are able to take care of the pain in most of the cases. This pain remains for first few days during the hip replacement rehabilitation. Patient can take the help of pain medication for performing lighter exercises after the surgery.

Rehabilitation program at home

Patients who opt out of the hospital soon after the surgery have to take care of the wound in a rehabilitation centre. The rehabilitation program followed at home should be duly consulted with the surgeon and the physical therapist. Surgeons give some tips so as to make the rehabilitation program at home an easier affair. Patient should avoid lifting heavy materials, avoid slippery surfaces, should arrange for a good chair which is relatively higher, and use a shower chair and a raised toilet. The patient should take care of the skin by keeping it dry and clean. Any swelling, chest pain or calf pain should be brought into notice during a hip replacement rehabilitation program.

Diet during hip replacement rehabilitation

Diet during hip replacement rehabilitation should be rich in iron, fluid and vitamin supplements. A healthy diet is extremely important during a hip replacement rehabilitation so as to recover in an efficient manner. Surgeons advise not to eat food which is rich in vitamin K as it can increase the chances of formation of blood clots. A healthy and controlled diet should be followed which keeps the weight under control. Excessive intake of coffee and alcohol is discouraged by doctors during hip replacement rehabilitation.

Activities after hip replacement rehabilitation

The total duration of hip replacement rehabilitation program can vary from three to five months. These months are considered very important in order to achieve the desired results. Some of the activities such as driving, sitting and sleeping positions, swimming, walking and climbing stairs could be resumed by the patient if advised by the surgeon and the physical therapist. These activities however are permitted only when the surgeon is confident about the gradual improvement and the recovery of the wound. Exercises advised by the physical therapist play an important role in strengthening the muscles during hip replacement rehabilitation.