There are some tried and true techniques that you can do during your total hip replacement recovery period. As you are probably aware, you won't be able to initially do all of the things that you have done in the past. And, you will have to follow a rigid recovery program during the first few weeks after your surgery.
It is very important that you have someone to help you during your recovery time. Your ultimate goal should be that you will eventually be able to resume your normal daily activities but perhaps in a different way. Immediately after your surgery, you will have to take it quite easy because you want your wound and the surgical site to heal correctly. Your physician and physical therapist will give you some exercises to do in the hospital and at home. He or she will also advise you on dietary suggestions, pain control and how to care for your wound. You also will be told how much weight you can put on the leg that is affected by the hip replacement.
It's very likely that you will experience quite a bit of pain after surgery. However, your pain can be successfully controlled with medication, either through IV or orally. Your doctor will monitor your medication and prescribe only what he or she feels is necessary. You also will be given antibiotics to prevent infections and perhaps blood thinners to eliminate the chance of blood clots.
During your post-surgical recovery period, you probably won't feel much like eating. You may be nauseous for a few days and find that you can't keep anything down. Your doctor will be able to give you something that will decrease your nausea and he or she might suggest certain foods that will help you in the healing process.
The most important thing that your doctor will want you to do is to get up and moving as soon as possible. This will help your circulatory system and keep the blood flowing properly through your legs. Your physical therapist may suggest simple pedaling exercises that you can do while in bed and give you elastic stockings to wear. All of these things are important and will keep you on track during your total hip replacement recovery period.
