Movement after hip replacement isn't optional extra credit — it's the treatment. The implant gives you a pain-free joint; your rehabilitation is what gives that joint back its strength and range of motion. Always follow the specific plan given by your surgeon and physiotherapist, as timelines vary by technique and individual healing.
Day 1–3: In hospital
- Ankle pumps and circles to support circulation
- Gentle heel slides within a comfortable range
- Standing and walking short distances with a walker, usually within 24 hours of surgery
- Sitting out of bed for meals rather than staying supine all day
Week 1–2: Early home recovery
- Continue walking with your walking aid, gradually increasing distance
- Seated knee extensions and gentle hip abduction exercises as instructed
- Standing hip extensions holding onto a stable support
- Focus on posture and a normal walking pattern rather than speed
Precautions matter as much as the exercises. Depending on the surgical approach used, you may be given specific movements to avoid in the early weeks — such as crossing your legs, excessive hip flexion, or twisting the operated leg inward. These restrictions are temporary and specific to your surgery; follow them exactly as given.
Week 3–6: Building strength
- Progression from walker to a stick/cane, then to unaided walking as strength allows
- Stationary cycling with low resistance, once cleared by your physiotherapist
- Standing balance exercises
- Gentle stair practice, one step at a time, leading with the stronger leg going up
Week 6–12: Returning to normal activity
- Most patients are walking without aids and managing stairs normally by this stage
- Return to swimming and gentle low-impact exercise, once your wound has fully healed
- Gradual return to driving, once you can react quickly enough and are off strong pain medication
- Higher-impact activities are usually introduced later, and only with your surgeon's clearance
Signs to stop and call your surgical team
- Sudden increase in pain or swelling
- Redness, warmth, or discharge from the wound
- Fever
- Calf pain, swelling, or shortness of breath (possible blood clot warning signs)
This guide is for general education and does not replace individual medical advice. Every patient's condition is different — book a consultation with Dr. Abhimanyu Singh to discuss what applies to you.