Critical Total Hip Replacement Recovery Precautions

							Critical Total Hip Replacement Recovery Precautions

Opting for total hip surgery can reduce arthritis and hip pain, stiffness of the hip and
limited movement. However, if you have opted for hip surgery, you should understand
the fact that surgery alone is not sufficient. You need to follow certain post-surgery
precautions to enjoy the benefits of the hip surgery. Here are few precautions that you
should follow for proper total hip replacement recovery.

   •   The most important precaution is that you should not bend your waist or hip
       beyond 90 degrees. More specifically, this means that you should never bend in
       the forward direction for picking anything from the floor or tying your shoes.
       Ideally, you should also avoid sitting on low cushioned seats.
   •   The second precaution is that you should not cross your legs. As compared to
       bending forward, this particular precaution is easier to adhere to. However,
       remember that to maintain this precaution, you need to plan your movements
       carefully. For instance, some people while sleeping lie on their side, thus
       allowing the leg to fall on the bed. This forces the hip ball against the operated
       muscles and enhances the risk of injury and dislocation.
   •   Finally, you should not turn your toes inward. While this may seem apparently
       simple, many patients walk unconsciously by turning the toes inward. Consider
       the fact that it may take weeks of training to walk ideally- i.e. without putting in
       a desperate effort for keeping your feet straight.

Apart from these precautions regarding hip movement, you should also pay attention to
diet and exercise. If you want to know more in this regard, read on.

   •   Post-surgery, many people lose the desire to eat. If you are facing any such
       problem, avoid worrying excessively. With time, the desire to eat will return. In
       general, opt for a wholesome diet of fresh vegetables and fruits. If your doctor
       thinks that you are not getting sufficient nutrients from your diet, he may
       suggest you take vitamin supplements.
   •   Apart from eating a healthy diet, drink plenty of water. Remember that fluids
       play a crucial role in healing wounds and preventing dehydration of the body.
   •   If you have been exercising before the surgery and want to resume physical
       activities post-surgery, consulting your doctor is a great idea. Your doctor should
       provide you with a list of specific exercises that will help you to maintain your
       health after the total hip surgery.
Consider the fact that first few weeks can have a major impact on your total hip
replacement recovery. Therefore, exercise special caution during this phase. To stay on
safe side, discuss with your doctor about your diet, physical activities, and movements.
This will reduce chances of infection and allow you to enjoy advantages of the hip
surgery.


The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as medical care or
medical advice and is not a replacement for medical care given by your physicians or trained medical personnel.