Hip replacement surgery is usually a treatment for people with reduced mobility from a worn or damaged hip joint. If ignored and not appropriately treated, pain could erupt even while you are resting. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two common conditions that might require hip replacement surgery. If you suffer from any of these, the surgery could help make you feel a lot better.
However, the relieving feeling will only transpire after you have successfully gone through the recovery period. Before that time comes, you would need to endure the recuperation steps on your own. Whether you are planning to get a hip replacement soon or have already had one, here are the things that you should expect:
On the First Week After the Surgery
During this time, you have no choice but to stay indoors until you can do the following independently:
- Get in and out of the hospital bed
- Walk with your walker, cane, or crutches
- Use the bathroom
Should you need a place to recover more quickly, your doctor might recommend staying in in-patient rehab for joint replacement patients. Such therapy centers allow you to get the support you need to speed your recovery process. Once you have accomplished the above tasks, you can finally be discharged.
Rehab At Home
Being at home does not mean you can immediately and freely move around on your own. Unfortunately, it would take some time before you fully recover. Before coming home, your family should make adjustments around the house to make it easier for you to move around.
- Since you would be walking around with a cane, walker, or crutches, your home should be free from obstructions.
- Adding equipment at home could also help you move around. Grab bars around the house or in the bathroom, raised toilet seats, or shower chairs can help you move and live more comfortably around the house.
Doing a little rearrangement of the interior can make the recovery process more manageable as well.
Caring for One’s Self
Most patients want to immediately get out of the hospital to be more relaxed at home. However, doing this means you have to take care of yourself. Here are the things that you should not forget when recovering:
- Taking the prescribed medications on time.
- Following the doctor’s other instructions (Some of them would encourage you to wear compression stockings to prevent any blood clots from occurring.)
- Attending therapy appointments
- Performing the prescribed exercises
- Knowing how to care for wounds
During this time, you should rest. However, hard work is essential for you to get better and regain your strength and mobility completely. All these are critical to your healing.
Conclusion
Going through surgery is one thing, but successfully going through the recovery process is another. All these could be overwhelming, but as long as you have support around you and determination, nothing is impossible. In case you live alone or need more help, there are always home health care agencies that can provide you with assistance.
If you are looking for the best home health care companies, consider contacting us at Bridge Home Health & Hospice. Our team provides a wide range of skilled services, including total knee and hip rehabilitation, home safety evaluation, post-surgical care, and more. We are committed to bringing excellent service to our community and giving our patients the care they deserve.
