Total hip arthroplasty is a total hip replacement surgery that involves restoring function to the joint. The prevalence or frequency of this with people over the age of 50 was estimated to be approximately 1.5 percent in people over 60, 5.2 percent with people over 80, and 5.8 percent with people over 90.
For many in these age groups, this surgery can seem scarier than it is. At clinics like Ortho Westmount, and others across the nation, you can work with professionals that will help you to feel as comfortable as possible, every step of the way. Learn more about how to prepare for hip arthroplasty here.
Timeline for Recovery
Total hip arthroplasty is considered to be major surgery and it should be treated as such. The timeline for recovery will vary by the individual, but it could take as little as a month to recover, or longer depending on your unique situation. Every person will recover at different rates. It is likely that you will experience pain during this process. Your clinician will help you to feel comfortable during this time.
You will likely be walking the day after your surgery. Still, while that is a major accomplishment, you will still need time to recover. If you are working, you want to be sure to take as much time off as you need for this.
You’ll Need Physical Therapy
Your doctor has probably already told you that you will need physical therapy after surgery. This will likely start while you are in the hospital if you have your surgery done there. If you have your surgery at an orthopedic clinic like Ortho Westmount, you may start your physical therapy right after your surgery.
As you are preparing for surgery, make plans for your physical therapy ahead of time, so that you are ready when it comes time to attend therapy. Plan your rides, know your schedule, and talk to your surgeon or clinician in advance to know what is expected of you and when.
Get Your Home Ready
When you are planning for surgery, you want to have your game plan at home in a place as early as possible. Make sure that every medical device you will need will be there, including a walker, cane, or wheelchair if necessary. You may want to change your bedroom before surgery to make walking and mobility a little easier. You may also want to switch to a main floor sleeping arrangement, if there is a bathroom on the main floor, to make living a little more comfortable for the first few weeks.
Prepare for Surgery
When you are getting ready for total hip arthroplasty, there are a lot of little details to take care of. When you have it done at a center such as Ortho Westmount, those little details will be easy to manage. Call a clinician to prepare for surgery today.