Total hip replacement recovery basics you should know

Much like other major surgeries, a patient who has undergone total hip replacement surgery requires careful attention and assistance for their recovery. Some patients stay in the hospital for a couple of days following the procedure, while some patients are required to stay longer. The real challenge in recovery begins once a patient is discharged from the hospital.

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Before a patient is allowed to leave the hospital, they must first be able to get in and out of bed on their own. It’s important to have the pain addressed prior to discharge; a patient must have acceptable pain control. Basic activities such as eating, drinking, and using the bathroom can be difficult for patients to do after the surgery. They must first accomplish such by themselves before heading home.

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A patient must maintain a good understanding of any hip precautions they may have been given to prevent injury and help in ensuring actual healing. One may be prone to infections after a surgery, which makes it best for them to know warnings signs such as persistent fever; chills; increasing redness, tenderness, and swelling of the wound; drainage from the wound, and growing pain with activity and rest.


At home, be sure that pieces of furniture are rearranged for the patient to be able to move around with ease when using a cane or any other assistive device. Put items frequently used within quick reach to not force the body to reach up or bend down just to get a hold of them.


Dr. Ryan Shephard received his medical degree from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2010. He completed his residency specializing in Orthopedic Surgery from McLaren Macomb in Mt. Clemens, Michigan in 2015. For more information about Dr. Shephard, head over to this page.