Hip replacements offer a new lease on active living for those who suffer from degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. If you’ve recently undergone a hip replacement, you may be wondering how to navigate the holidays after surgery.
The team at Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, is a joint replacement specialist, so we can help you with a recovery plan and advice for coping with your life as it is. We’ve prepared our top tips to help you enjoy the season’s festivities.
Since the holiday season spans about six weeks, your capabilities will change substantially over the course of the season. Let’s look at a typical recovery timeline so you can estimate where you’ll be throughout the coming weeks, along with our top tips for suitable holiday participation at every step.
Depending on the type of procedure you undergo, you will either go home on the same day as your procedure or within a day or two if a hospital stay is required. Your first few days should be focused on rest and recovery. Typically, you’ll start physical therapy within 24 to 48 hours after your procedure.
You’ll likely use mobility aids such as canes, crutches, or walkers. Stitches or staples are typically removed during this timeframe, and you’ll have some bathing restrictions while your surgical incisions are fresh. Your comfort moving around your home will improve dramatically. Prepare Christmas cards or use online services to shop for presents.
A cane should be the only mobility aid you need by this point. Leg strength and stability improve as swelling starts to clear. You’ll be able to perform light duties around the house, so it’s a good time for low-pressure, light-lifting tasks like decorating or getting a start on baking and make-ahead food preparations.
Life starts to feel normal during this stretch. You’ll likely have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check that your progress is on track. You may receive medical clearance to drive, and you probably won’t need walking aids for stability.
Attending dinners or parties should be no problem as long as you’re mindful of your fatigue levels. Hosting family and friends might still be taxing, so delegate to share the burden.
Assuming a mid-November surgery, you’ll be at the end of week 2 when Thanksgiving arrives. You may be able to contribute to the holiday meal, but it might be too much to prepare it yourself.
It’s a full four weeks from Thanksgiving to Christmas, so you should be reaching the end of the first stage of recovery in time for Christmas dinner and New Year’s Eve festivities.
Full recovery from hip replacement may take up to two years, but by 6 weeks, you should be able to function independently. Your body continues to improve for months after, so you may still find your endurance is reduced.
Contact Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic to discuss hip replacement options or inquire about follow-up care. Make an appointment by phone or online today.
