5 common mistakes to avoid after hip replacement surgery

Australians love to lead active lifestyles. So it is no wonder that many people feel eager to return to their previous activities, sports and hobbies after hip replacement surgery.

However, while you might feel ready to jump back into your previous active lifestyle, it’s important that you follow your surgeon’s recommendations and return to activities when your hip is ready. This will help prevent any re-injury and ensure you stay on track for your recovery.

Avoid these five common mistakes after hip replacement surgery.

1. Depend on the easy exercises.

Your physiotherapist will recommend a range of movements and exercises for you to do throughout each stage of your recovery. While it might be easier to depend on the exercises that are less strenuous on your hip, this will actually prolong your recovery time.

2. Spend your recovery on the lounge or in bed.

As much as you might want to spend your recovery on the couch binge watching your favourite TV show, it’s important to get up and move. Following your physiotherapy recommendations and performing suitable activities following your surgery will help speed up your recovery. You may require some assistance at the start, so don’t be afraid to ask friends or family for some help.

3. Eat and drink poorly.

A healthy diet during your recovery is key. While you may find that you have a loss of appetite after surgery, it is important to refuel your body with the nutrients and hydration your body needs to support your recovery.

4. Throw your body into high-impact sports and activities.

Speak to your surgeon and physical therapist about the best activities for you following your surgery. Depending on your overall health, most doctors will recommend that you participate in low-impact sports, such as swimming, cycling, or doubles tennis. Sports that involve less risk of fall and strain are safer as you get used to your new hip.

5. Participate in sexual positions that might cause injury to your hip.

Many patients who have had a hip replacement are able to return to sexual activities at around the 4-6 week recovery mark. In fact, many patients find that their sex life improves following a hip replacement. While you might feel ready to re-start your sex life, there are a number of common positions that require hip flexion, rotation and extension that can cause injury to your hip. Speak to your surgeon at your checkup about positions that are safe for you.

The most important thing to do is to relax and give your body the time it needs to recover so that you can start making the most of this next chapter in your life.

To help you better understand the procedure involved, one of Newcastle and the Hunter Valley’s top Orthopaedic Surgeons, Dr Stuart MacKenzie has created a free guide on hip replacements.