Rehabilitation and life after hip endoprosthetics

Hip endoprosthetics is not an extreme step, but a new start. For many patients, this decision changes not only the body, but also the way of life: the pain that limited movements, forced them to abandon their favorite activities and disturbed sleep finally disappears. Instead of constant discomfort, confidence in every step.

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This article is about how life changes after hip replacement, what to expect in the first weeks, what to strive for next and how to make recovery not only effective, but also natural.

What changes after surgery

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Life after endoprosthetics is about restored freedom. The pain that made me wake up at night, restricted movements and changed habits disappears. In the first days after the operation, patients notice: it has become easier to stand, sit. It's nice to stop thinking about every step. Week after week comes what many consider unattainable — habituation.

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It becomes easier to get out of bed, dress yourself, do without help. People return to cooking, outdoor walks, shopping in stores. There is a sense of control of the body, and with it - confidence.

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Over time, patients get behind the wheel again, plan trips. Previously, restrictions set the pace, now — the patient determines it himself. This is not a one-time victory, but a consistent, stable path to self-return.

Features of recovery after surgery

The first movements already on the day of surgery

Due to the fact that during the operation the muscles are not dissected, but are delicately moved apart, recovery is significantly easier.

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Patients of Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic who have undergone endoprosthetics can get out of bed 4-6 hours after the procedure. Sitting is allowed just as early - provided that the rules are followed: a flat back, a stable chair with sufficient height, feet on the floor, without crossing.

Recommendations to consider

Despite the rapid recovery of some movements in the first weeks, it is still worth avoiding:

• hip flexion more than 90°;
• turning the foot inward;
• crossing the legs;
• sitting on very low surfaces.

It is these actions that can increase the risk of implant dislocation, especially in the first 6—8 weeks, when the soft tissues are still adapting.

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After surgery, the patient is recommended to sleep with a pillow or a special orthopedic roller between the legs usually for 3-4 weeks. This prevents unwanted rotational movements of the hip joint during sleep.

Features of life with an artificial joint

Work, driving, daily chores

If your profession does not involve physical exertion, you can return to work in 2-3 weeks. Driving a car is allowed as soon as coordination, reactions and full control of the legs are restored. This usually takes 3-4 weeks.

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Household chores — cooking, walking, light cleaning — gradually return to your life from the second week. The main thing in rehabilitation after hip surgery is to listen to the body and follow the advice of a physical therapist.

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Sometimes the usual things can be of great importance for safety. These include:

• the height of the chair and toilet bowl should be such that the hip bend angle does not exceed 90°;
• shoes without heels, with comfortable fixation;
• rejection of carpets and slippery surfaces, which reduces the risk of falling;
• handles, supports, chairs with armrests facilitate movement in the first weeks.

Physical activity and sport

After completing the first stage of rehabilitation, the following is allowed:

• walking — daily, dosed, with posture control;
• stabilization exercises — under the supervision of a physical therapist;
• exercise bike and swimming — approximately from 6 weeks after surgery;
• light fitness classes — from 2-3 months in agreement with the doctor.

Sharp jumps, running, twisting and deep squats without preparation should be avoided.

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Life without pain: emotional and psychological transformation

When pain is present on a daily basis, it not only shapes physical habits, but also a way of thinking. A person involuntarily limits himself: reduces social contacts, avoids trips, refuses favorite things, becomes dependent on the help of others. Hip replacement is not only about moving without pain, but also about getting back to yourself.

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From the first weeks after surgery, patients begin to understand: no longer need to think about every movement. It gives a sense of control — over the body, over life, over plans for the future.

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After the disappearance of chronic pain, not only mobility changes, but also the psychological state. People become more confident, open, calm; the desire to travel, engage in physical activity, communicate is restored. This is not an exaggeration — it is a natural reaction to the lifting of a long-term restriction.

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Most patients, even in rehabilitation after endoprosthetics, allow themselves to plan months and years ahead for the first time in many years. Not starting from what “hurts”, but on the contrary — focusing on what you want to do. It inspires, motivates and often changes lifestyle in the direction of a more active and healthy lifestyle.

How to keep the result for a long time

The quality and duration of the implant service depend not only on the technique of the operation, but also on how the patient behaves after it.

Physical activity after endoprosthetics is mandatory. But not all. It is important to avoid sudden shock loads (running on asphalt, jumping), instead give preference to swimming, Nordic walking, balance exercises and muscle strengthening.

Components of rehabilitation for hip endoprosthetics in the future

Control visits to the orthopedist are not a formality, but a prevention strategy. Routine examinations (after 3, 6, 12 months, then every year) help to monitor the condition of the implant, the position of the components, muscle balance and prevent complications at an early stage.

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A properly selected exercise program helps not only to recover, but also to maintain an active state in the long term. At Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma, patients receive individual recommendations that take into account age, lifestyle and activity level.

Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma — a space for safe movement

At Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma, we create an environment in which the patient feels protected — not only on the operating table, but also before and after the intervention.

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In our clinic, the patient goes through the entire course of treatment:

• modern diagnostics;
• digital planning of the operation;
• minimally traumatic intervention;
• quality rehabilitation on site.

This is not just convenient — it guarantees the consistency, efficiency and safety of the process.

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Our patients receive clear recommendations, the accompaniment of a physical therapist, access to training materials and the opportunity to consult in dynamics. We do not leave a person alone with a new joint - we help to adapt, feel freedom of movement and save the result.

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If you want to live freely, take the first step. Sign up for a consultation and find out exactly how we can help you regain control of your movement, body and daily joy of life.

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