Hip replacement surgery can often put you out of commission for multiple weeks – sometimes months – at a time. If you are an athlete, or if you work a job that requires you to be on your feet for multiple hours per day, it is critical to find some ways to return to your feet as soon as you can. When it comes down to it, hip replacement surgery can be tough – it can be painful and it can be hard to even think about doing anything physical – but it is critical that you start to get on your feet and build strength in your body. If you don’t, atrophy can set in, which can make the recovery process so much harder. Here are five tips for returning to physical activity after hip replacement surgery.

1. Reduce the pain. One of the most important parts of the recovery process is reducing the pain. When it comes down to it, the pain can be excruciating after hip replacement surgery. If you want to start getting back on your feet, you want to make sure that you speak to your doctor about pain relief options. There are many over-the-counter pain relief options that could significantly reduce the pain and discomfort.
2. Go slow and steady. After a hip replacement surgery, you don’t necessarily want to jump on your feet – you want to take it one step at a time and one day at a time. If you try to push it, you could actually risk seriously injuring yourself or worsening your hip condition. So, make sure that you know your limits. If you are feeling pain, try to take a break. Perhaps the next day you can push a little further.
3. Physical therapy. One of the best ways to get back on your feet again is to undergo physical therapy. Working with a qualified physical therapist will allow you to get back on your feet in a safe and clinical environment. Plus, physical therapists know exactly what exercises are good for people recovering from hip replacement surgery. If you are an athlete, you should visit http://www.orthoped.com/ – because you may be able to benefit from the specialized care of a physical therapist that specializes in sports related hip injuries.
4. Know that it will be difficult. If you had whole hip replacement surgery, your recovery may take longer. If this is the case, you want to know that it will be a challenge. Preparing for the challenge will make you better equipped for the recovery process – it will also strengthen your resolve.
5. Have someone by your side. When it comes down to it, having someone by your side can be incredibly helpful when you are recovering from a hip replacement surgery. Whether that person is a spouse or a friend, it will be helpful to have someone there to help you on your feet and also for moral support. At the end of the day, it is amazing what a few words of encouragement can do for the spirit.