Hip replacement surgery is an amazing procedure that can improve your loved one’s quality of life, easing pain and restoring mobility. But the recovery process requires patience, care, and support from those around them.
If you have a loved one who is about to undergo or has recently undergone hip replacement surgery, you may wonder how you can best help them on their road to recovery.
At the private practice of board-certified surgeon Kevin Park, MD, we specialize in joint replacement surgery and offer comprehensive care personalized to every patient’s specific needs.
Here’s an overview of hip replacement surgery and practical tips on how you can support your loved one during their recovery.
Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged or diseased parts of the hip joint with artificial components, called prostheses.
The goal of the procedure is to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall function of the hip joint.
The recovery process varies from person to person, but generally, it includes a combination of rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to normal activities.
Immediately after surgery, your loved one spends part of a day up to a few days in the hospital or surgery center, where their progress is monitored.
Pain management, early mobilization, and physical therapy usually begin immediately to encourage healing and prevent complications.
Once discharged, your loved one continues their recovery at home, and this part of recovery can last several weeks to months, depending on the specific circumstances.
You want to do what you can to support your loved one during this recovery period. Here are some of our favorite tips for doing just that.
A big part of supporting your loved one’s recovery is making their home environment safe and comfortable.
Before they return home, take some time to prepare the living space. Clear pathways and remove tripping hazards like rugs or loose cords. Install grab bars in the bathroom and place a sturdy chair in the shower to reduce the risk of falls.
A raised toilet seat can also be helpful, since bending low can be painful during the initial stages of recovery.
Rearrange furniture to allow easy access to frequently used areas. If possible, set up a temporary bedroom on the ground floor so they don’t have to climb stairs.
Make sure essential items, such as medications, water, and the television remote, are within easy reach.
Your loved one will need to use a walker or crutches at first, then gradually transition to using a cane or walking unassisted.
While physical therapy guides much of their mobility work, your support is important during the early stages.
Help your loved one follow their physical therapy exercises, and encourage them to stay active while sticking to any weight-bearing restrictions. Go with them on short walks around the house or neighborhood, being mindful of their pace and comfort.
Help with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and meal preparation, especially during the first few weeks when bending and reaching are difficult.
Encourage your loved one to take as directed the pain medications Dr. Park prescribes. Ice packs and elevating the treated leg can also help reduce swelling and ease pain.
Equally important is making sure your loved one gets enough rest. While you should encourage mobility, remind them to balance activity with rest to avoid overexertion.
Support them in keeping a regular sleep schedule, and create a peaceful environment that encourages relaxation and healing.
Your loved one may experience frustration, anxiety, or even periods of depression as they adjust and work toward regaining their independence.
You can help by being a source of emotional support by listening to their concerns, offering encouragement, and celebrating small milestones in their recovery.
Maintaining communication with Dr. Park helps your loved one have a smooth recovery. To encourage this, go to their follow-up appointments with them. And don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions or concerns that come up along the way.
Dr. Park and his team are committed to giving your loved one personalized care and guidance throughout their hip replacement recovery.
We can give you additional recommendations or make adjustments to the recovery plan as needed so your loved one gets the best possible care.
If you have any concerns or need further help planning your loved one’s recovery after hip replacement surgery, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment at our Houston, Texas, office by using online scheduling or reach out by phone today.
