Hip replacement surgery involves the use of a manmade implant (prosthesis) for fully or partially replacing the hip. It is generally performed on adults when other treatments, such as weight loss, medicines, physical therapy, and using walker or cane have failed to help.
Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.
When Will You be able to Walk Normally?
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are immediately started following the surgery. They will continue while you are hospitalized and at home for at least a year following surgery. Your physical therapy will monitor flexibility and strength in your hip and leg. They will also monitor your ability to sit and stand. Moreover, physical therapists provide instructions and goals to complete while at home and hospital.
You will be asked to perform daily exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles around your hip joint. This will likely be for 20 – 30 minutes, two or three times a day. You will slowly regain the strength to climb stairs, bend and walk as you regain strength and motion. It may take several weeks to months before you can get back to normal.
Walking Safely Following Hip Replacement Surgery
You may need to use crutches or walker which your physical or occupational therapist will provide. Make sure you use these aiding devices until the therapist advises you otherwise. Your treatment provider will decide the amount of weight you can put on the surgery leg. You may be able to place 100% weight in most cases.
Your physical therapist will also help you correctly learn to use crutches and walker. You should consider attaching a bag or basket to the walker for carrying small items. Keep in mind that walking will take a lot of effort following the surgery. Your recovery is dependent on your dedication to exercises and therapy following the surgery.
Driving After Surgery
You may not be allowed to drive for a few weeks following the surgery. You should be able to resume driving once you have control of your legs and good overall strength. You should be off pain medications and be comfortable while sitting in a car. You should ask your surgeon when you can resume driving.
Climbing Stairs Following Hip Replacement Surgery
Your physical therapist will tell you the correct way of climbing up and going down stair using crutches or handrails. You would need to use your good leg, followed by crutches and then the surgery leg. When going down the surgery leg and crutches go first. This will be followed by your good leg.
Safely Reaching for Objects
Reaching requires bending and is not usually comfortable for people. You should use long-handled reachers in the first 4 – 6 weeks to get stuff. You can ask a nearby medical supply store or your occupational therapist for reachers.
Board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan of the Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI) receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and nearby areas for orthopedic surgery.
Contact the Southern California Hip Institute
Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:
Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030
Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/
