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Recovery after hip or knee replacement
Most people walk with a frame or sticks soon after surgery and keep improving for months. Recovery varies, so use this as a guide and follow your own team's advice.
The first days
- You are helped to stand and walk soon after the operation. [confirm typical hospital stay or day-case pathway]
- Physiotherapists teach you exercises and how to manage stairs.
- Pain relief is given regularly so that you can move.
- You will be told how to look after the wound and when stitches or dressings come off. [confirm wound closure and dressing]
Blood clot prevention
Surgery raises the risk of blood clots, so you will be given a prevention plan. It may include medicines, compression stockings and early walking. [add Mr Brock's clot prevention protocol]
Weeks and months
- Walking aids are usually reduced over the first weeks. [add typical timings]
- Driving: return only when you can control the car safely, including an emergency stop, and check your insurer. [add Mr Brock's driving advice]
- Work, sport and travel: [add timings by job and activity]
- Hip precautions, if any: [add Mr Brock's advice]
When to get help
- Call 999 for chest pain or sudden breathlessness.
- Seek urgent advice for calf pain or swelling, a hot, red or leaking wound, fever, or a sudden increase in pain.
Use the contact details in your discharge information. [add after-hours contact number]