Do's and Don'ts after Hip Replacement Surgery
After undergoing hip replacement surgery, you will need to be very careful with a couple of things. It is important to adhere to the specific instructions given to you by your doctor, nurse, or physiotherapists. These instructions are usually tailored around principles to make you recover on time and resume full independent mobility. Following them also helps you to avoid some risks and complications that are usually associated with hip replacement procedures.
Some general precautions and tips for faster recovery to be taken after undergoing a hip replacement surgery or arthroplasty are:
1. Right Use of Medications:
Based on the medical events before, during, and after your surgery, your doctor might prescribe some medications to hasten your recovery and prevent some complications.
Blood thinners can be prescribed to reduce the possibility of developing Deep Veinous Thrombosis. Antibiotics, among other drugs, can also be prescribed for various reasons. It is important to stick to the drug regimen prescribed by your doctor.
2. Stick to the Prescribed Exercise Regiment:
Your physiotherapist will teach you some exercises which will give strength to your hip and help you recover faster. Do only the recommended exercise.
Your physiotherapist will also teach you ways to move around without causing any damage to the new hip. Adhere to the instructions and report any new pain to your physiotherapist or your doctor.
3. Fall Avoidance:
Fall prevention is a very important subject after hip replacement. Falls can cause significant damage to your hip. If this happens, you will need another surgery to repair the damage. Your physiotherapist can advise you on fall prevention methods. Ensure you use your walking aid as taught by your physical therapist.
Extra care should be taken when moving around the bathroom and the kitchen. Care should also be taken when moving up and down the stairs. You should always wear a shoe or slippers with a firm grip. Avoid walking on wet or slippery surfaces as much as you can.
4. Mobility Precautions:
Some specific movements in the hip have been shown to cause post-surgery complications like hip dislocation. You should avoid these movements as much as possible. Avoid twisting your hip and turning your foot toes-pointing outwards.
Do not lie on the operated side as this will place too much pressure on that side and hurt the incision site more.
When you turn about during walking, take small steps to protect the hip even if you appear fit enough to turn swiftly. Avoid crossing your legs over each other while sleeping or sitting. A good way to prevent the crossing of the legs in bed is to place a pillow between both thighs. Discomfort or pain should be a limiting factor in every movement.
Do not sit on low chairs (including low toilet seats). This will result in a bend of more than 90 degrees at the hip and can cause dislocation. You can install raised toilet seats.
5. Do not try to resume vigorous physical activities too early –
Doing strenuous activity too early will hinder proper healing after surgery. Usually, you should be able to resume normal physical activity about 6 to 12 weeks after your operation.
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