Recovery From Hip Replacements in the Elderly

Also referred to as arthroplasty, a hip replacement involves the removal of the diseased portions of a hip joint, which the surgeon then replaces with an artificial joint. Often performed in the elderly, hip replacement surgeries increase the body's mobility and alleviate pain. However, recovery can sometimes be difficult as the body adjusts to the new joint. Complications can result from the size of the new joint, or the body's reaction to the surgical process or joint. Take certain steps to help relieve these complications and get used to your new hip faster.

Possible Complications

• Hip dislocation may occur after a hip replacement surgery. Since the artificial replacements for the ball and socket are smaller than the real ones, the ball may become dislodged from its socket.

  Inflammation of the particles from the artificial joint that come into contact with the tissues surrounding the joint can also occur. This inflammatory effect may cause some cells to damage the bones, causing the artificial joint to loosen up. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs for treatment.

Physical Therapy

• After surgery, allow your hip area to heal itself. Some exercises work especially effectively in strengthening the joint. Simply contracting the muscles in the legs, buttocks and ankles makes for a good start. Doctors and physical therapists will recommend other specific exercises for you depending on your condition.

  Physical therapy can begin the day after the hip replacement surgery. The therapist will instruct you how to perform full hip movements. While you're in the hospital, therapists will work with you one or two times a day. Once discharged, work with your therapist three to four times a week.

Post-Surgery Care

• When at home, give special attention to your surgical incision. Your doctor will typically remove the staples from the incision about 14 days after the hip replacement. Do not apply any lotions, creams or ointments on the wound unless specified by your doctor, and avoid wetting any bandages on the wound (all of which can increase the risk of infection).

  Strive for physical activity. You can typically resume your daily activities beginning about three to six weeks after your surgery. Aside from your physical therapy sessions, do some walking and perform some household chores in order to increase your hip's mobility. Do not overdo it or do anything that could cause damage to your artificial joint. Do not climb stairs unless assisted by a nurse or caregiver. Make use of crutches, walkers and canes for support.

  Make follow-up visits to your orthopedic surgeon at three weeks, six weeks and then three, six and 12 months after your surgery. These visits will allow your doctor to assess the condition of your hip implant.