Life after total hip replacement surgery is just that – getting back to life!
After completing the final stages of post-operative rehabilitation for a Total Hip Replacement (THR), you may be wondering what the next steps are to get back to your old life.Â
Today we’ll explore the 3 W’s of getting back to life after a THR. Namely, the What, the Why and the Who. Let’s get into it!
WHAT: What should I be working on after total hip replacement surgery?
Before you can work to achieve something, you must reflect on what it is that you want to achieve and why it is important to you.
Meaningful goal setting
Meaningful goal setting can be an enjoyable and practical part of the post-operative process. You have a solid understanding of how your hip is progressing, post-operative levels of pain, and your mobility. This means you can begin to structure your goals focusing on the activities you’re keen to return to.
Hopefully, you’ll have much more movement and less pain than before surgery. This should enable you to revisit activities, hobbies, and daily tasks that may have been previously impossible.
Take a moment to reflect on those things and make a list. These may be able to be developed into new goals to smash!
TIP: You’ll find a printable goal planner at the end of this article!
Why: Why should I continue to exercise after rehab?Â
Total hip replacements are commonly accepted as one of the most successful surgeries in the modern era. This means generally better outcomes for patients. However, every hip and every person is different.
To get the most out of a THR it is important to continue with regular exercise to maintain your muscle strength and exercise endurance.
Pain management & injury prevention
Ongoing exercise is also beneficial for heart and lung health, pain management, and injury prevention.
The reality is, typical levels of pain experienced after total hip replacement surgery can vary in both duration and intensity. It is important to work with your physio and medical team to identify pain management strategies that will work for you in both the short and long term. This will enable you to continue working towards and achieving meaningful goals.Â
Keep following pre-operative guidelines.
It is important to continue to implement all the things you have learned over your total hip replacement journey, from ‘prehab’ through to the present. Examine the health advice you have received already and continue to follow those guidelines. The new-found knowledge will help you exercise with correct form, be aware of any risks and red flags, better manage pain and set goals that are meaningful to you.Â
WHO: Who can help me?
Remember your physiotherapist and medical team are here for you. Seek the advice and input of health professionals as you return to life after a THR.
Check out our previous article about how a TPC physiotherapist can help you on your THR journey.
Get simple, real-time advice and talk with a TPC physiotherapist today. Easy and affordable online consultation sessions are available here now.
Article written by Emily Johnson – Physiotherapist