Recovering from hip replacement surgery is a process that requires patience, dedication, and support. While the procedure itself is an essential step in relieving pain and restoring mobility, your post-surgery care plays a critical role in achieving long-term success.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD, we guide patients through every phase of recovery with personalised care and expert planning. Dr. Kevin McCarthy, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Hollywood, FL, performs total hip replacement using advanced Enovis™ technology to ensure precise alignment and stability. Once your new hip joint is in place, our team helps you regain function safely and steadily.
Here are the most important hip replacement recovery tips to follow after surgery.
Post-Operative Pain Management
Pain control is a priority in the first few days following surgery. Good pain management helps you begin moving sooner, which lowers the risk of complications like blood clots and supports the body’s healing process.
Common components of post-surgical pain relief include:
- Non-opioid medications: These may include acetaminophen or NSAIDs to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
- Short-term narcotic pain medication: In some cases, low-dose narcotics may be prescribed for a limited time to manage moderate pain.
- Cold therapy and elevation: Applying ice packs and elevating the leg can reduce inflammation around the surgical site.
- Early mobility: Movement helps prevent stiffness, boosts circulation, and supports tissue recovery.
Dr. McCarthy uses Enovis™-assisted surgical technology to reduce tissue disruption during surgery, often resulting in less pain post-operatively. Pain is typically most intense in the first 48 to 72 hours but becomes more manageable with consistent care and mobility.
Recommended Physical Therapy Exercises
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of recovery. With a carefully designed rehabilitation plan, you’ll strengthen the surrounding muscles, increase joint flexibility, and reduce your reliance on walking aids.
Your physical therapy journey may include:
Early Phase (Days 1–14):
- Ankle pumps: Prevent blood clots by promoting circulation.
- Heel slides and quad sets: Maintain range of motion and activate core leg muscles.
- Gluteal squeezes: Help engage muscles that support the new hip joint.
Intermediate Phase (Weeks 3–6):
- Standing hip abductions and extensions: Improve lateral stability and balance.
- Mini squats and step-ups: Build strength in your quads and glutes.
- Gait training: Correct your walking pattern to avoid long-term compensation.
Advanced Phase (Weeks 6–12+):
- Resistance band exercises: Add intensity as strength improves.
- Stationary cycling or aquatic therapy: Boost endurance with low-impact conditioning.
- Balance drills: Help prevent future falls or joint strain.
Your physical therapist will guide you through each level of hip replacement rehabilitation exercises, adjusting for your goals and comfort. Skipping therapy or doing too much too soon can prolong recovery and increase the risk of injury.
Do’s and Don’ts for Optimal Recovery
Following a few basic guidelines can protect your hip joint and reduce the risk of complications as your body heals.
What to Do:
- Use assistive devices as recommended, such as a walker or cane
- Keep up with daily exercises and walking routines
- Attend follow-up appointments for monitoring and adjustments
- Eat balanced meals to support tissue repair and strength
- Stay hydrated and follow all post-op instructions carefully
What to Avoid:
- Avoid crossing your legs or bending your hip past 90 degrees
- Don’t skip exercises or overexert yourself
- Refrain from soaking the incision until it’s fully healed
- Avoid driving until your surgeon gives clearance
- Skip stairs and uneven surfaces until you’ve regained balance
These simple hip replacement recovery tips can make a major difference in your comfort, mobility, and long-term results.
Expected Milestones in the Healing Process
Each patient’s recovery is unique, but there are general stages you can use to track progress. Knowing these hip replacement recovery milestones helps set expectations and gives you goals to work toward.
Week 1:
- Walking with a walker or crutches within 24–48 hours.
- Beginning light physical therapy exercises in the hospital or at home.
- Managing pain with medication and ice therapy.
Weeks 2–4:
- Transitioning to a cane or walking without assistance indoors.
- Increasing walking distance and stair tolerance.
- Attending outpatient physical therapy sessions.
Weeks 5–8:
- Resuming low-impact daily activities like driving, cooking, and shopping.
- Returning to light work duties, if approved.
- Achieving more consistent range of motion and stability.
Weeks 9–12+:
- Building endurance with longer walks or cycling.
- Safely returning to hobbies such as gardening or golf.
- Feeling fewer limitations in everyday tasks.
Persistent hip pain beyond the 12-week mark should be evaluated, but most patients experience steady improvement throughout this period. At Kevin McCarthy, MD, we monitor your progress closely with follow-ups, checking both your implant stability and functional milestones.
Why Your Recovery Matters
Your recovery is more than physical—it’s a chance to restore your independence, confidence, and comfort after years of experiencing hip pain. A successful total hip replacement not only relieves joint discomfort but also reopens possibilities for activity, social engagement, and peace of mind.
With decades of orthopedic experience, Dr. Kevin McCarthy is committed to delivering advanced care and compassionate support every step of the way. By combining expertise with Enovis™ technology, we ensure your recovery is guided by data, precision, and care.
Feel Supported Every Step of the Way with Dr. McCarthy
Following a structured recovery plan after hip replacement surgery helps you heal well and return to daily life with confidence. With experience, innovation, and patient-first care, Dr. Kevin McCarthy is here to help you recover safely and successfully.
Call us at (954) 963-3500 or request an appointment online to get the expert post-surgical care and guidance you need at Kevin McCarthy, MD in Hollywood, FL.
