Go back to Health A to Z

Recovering from a hip replacement

How to recover from a hip replacement

It may take several months to recover from a hip replacement. This can vary depending on your age and general health.

It's important to follow the advice you have been given on looking after your hip to have a good recovery.

Recovering in hospital

After surgery, you’ll spend some time in a recovery room where you may be given medicines to help with the pain.

You’ll continue to have painkillers in the days after the operation as your hip will be sore. You may also have a tube in your hip to drain away any fluids.

You'll have help from nurses and physiotherapists to start walking as soon as possible after the operation so you can go home as soon as possible. You'll need crutches or a walking frame at first.

Recovering at home

You can usually go home if your wound is healing well and you can safely get around.

If you are generally fit and the surgery went well then you can usually go home around 1 to 3 days after the operation.

Before you go home a physiotherapist or occupational therapist will talk to you about managing daily activities and home exercise programmes.

Following the exercises early on in your recovery will help with the long-term strength and movement in your hip.

You'll probably have some pain and swelling in your legs and feet. These symptoms usually get better in a few weeks. You'll usually be given painkillers to help manage the pain.

A nurse will take out your stiches or clips after about 10 days. You'll also have a follow-up appointment around 6 to 12 weeks after your surgery to check how you are recovering.

Do

  • regularly walk every day as far as it is comfortable – talk to your physiotherapist if you have any problems

  • follow the exercises your physiotherapist has recommended

  • wait at least 6 weeks to drive (check with your doctor that you’re fit to drive)

  • try to avoid sex for 6 to 8 weeks after you operation

  • return to work when you feel ready – this usually takes about 6 weeks, but will depend on the type of work you do

  • sit in a reclining position, but also try to avoid sitting still for long periods of time – this will help with swelling

Don’t

  • do not sit with your legs crossed

  • do not bend your hip more than 90 degrees (a right angle)

  • do not bend down to touch your feet or ankles

  • do not sit down in a low chair or toilet seat, or a chair without arms, as you will have problems pulling yourself up again (raised toilet seats are available)

  • do not do exercises involving jumping, sudden turns, or where there is a high risk of falling while your hip is recovering

  • do not lift or move heavy objects until you're told it's safe for you to do so

Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024
Next review due: 6 March 2027