What To Expect With Pain After Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement is a major surgical procedure that can restore mobility and reduce pain. After the operation, you may experience discomfort and soreness as your body adjusts to the new hip joint.
If you’re one of the many patients considering hip replacement surgery, you’re probably wondering what to expect when it comes to pain. How severe will it be? Will it go away eventually? We will explain what you can expect when it comes to pain after hip replacement surgery.
How Does Hip Replacement Surgery Work?
Hip replacement surgery is a standard procedure that can help relieve pain and improve function in individuals with hip arthritis. During the procedure, the damaged parts of a patient’s hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial ones made from metal or plastic components.
Ideal candidates for hip replacement surgery include those who have tried non-surgical treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications but are still in pain.
What Is the Pain Like After Hip Replacement Surgery?
The amount of pain after hip replacement surgery can vary from patient to patient. Here are the stages of recovery and what you can expect in terms of pain.
Immediately After Surgery:
Immediately after surgery, it is common to experience significant pain and need to take medications for relief. This is when patients will typically receive the most medication for their pain. You may feel some residual soreness at this stage, but it should not be uncomfortable.
First Week After Surgery:
The pain will gradually diminish as patients adjust to the new hip joint and begin walking without assistance. Patients may need less medication and should start feeling more comfortable. Exercise is encouraged during this stage, but working with your physical therapist or doctor is essential to avoid overdoing it.
Two Weeks After Surgery:
By two weeks post-surgery, patients should be able to do most of their normal activities and make regular trips outside the house. Pain medications are generally reduced significantly at this stage.
Three Weeks After Surgery:
At three weeks after surgery, most patients have returned to their usual level of activity and experience minimal pain. Pain medications may be discontinued at this point, but your doctor will decide the best plan for you.
Four Weeks After Surgery:
Four weeks after surgery, most people report only a very mild ache or soreness in their hip joints when doing activities requiring extra movement, such as walking upstairs or running. This is normal and should gradually diminish as your hip strengthens.
Tips To Reduce Pain After Hip Replacement Surgery
Recovering from hip replacement surgery is one of the most critical steps in ensuring a successful outcome. Fortunately, there are several tips you can follow to reduce your discomfort:
a) Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy is essential to ensure proper healing and recovery after surgery. Following the post-surgery rehabilitation plan, your doctor prescribed will help you restore mobility, balance, and strength in your hip joint while minimizing pain and restoring regular daily functions.
b) Pain Medications:
Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage your discomfort as you recover from surgery. Commonly prescribed medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids.
c) Ice & Heat Therapy:
Applying hot or cold compresses to the affected area can help minimize pain, swelling, and inflammation. This can be done at home using an ice pack or heating pad as directed by your doctor.
Call Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for the best hip replacement in Baltimore. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons and medical staff can help you understand the pain after hip replacement surgery.