Important Things to Know if You’re Having a Total Hip Replacement
If you’re preparing for a total hip replacement, you're not alone. Each year, thousands of people undergo this life-changing surgery — and many go on to enjoy a more active, pain-free lifestyle. We believe that understanding the journey ahead helps patients feel more confident and in control. Here are some key things to know for before, during, and after your surgery.
1. Understanding the Procedure
A total hip replacement involves removing the damaged parts of your hip joint and replacing them with artificial components. It’s usually recommended when arthritis causes severe pain and limits your daily function. There are other reasons why someone may require a hip replacement that include hip fracture but arthritis is by far the most common reason for having the surgery.
Modern techniques mean the surgery is more refined than ever, with excellent long-term outcomes, especially when paired with a tailored rehabilitation plan.
2. Pre-Surgery Prep Is Key
The stronger and more mobile you are before surgery, the better your recovery is likely to be. This is where prehabilitation comes in. Exercise before surgery can seem difficult due to pain in the hip joint, but there are exercises you can do to prepare the body. These will be specific to you. Any exercise that you feel is manageable is better than no exercise at all but your Physiotherapist will be able to help you further with a programme that is specific to your needs and ability. The earlier you can start with a Prehab plan before surgery the better.
3. Expect Some Short-Term Limitations
After surgery, as long as you are medically fit, you’ll likely be up and moving within 24 hours, initially with a walking frame before progressing to crutches. There will be temporary movement restrictions to allow the new joint to settle in safely. Your surgeon and physio will guide you on what positions and movements to avoid (such as crossing your legs, or, twisting the hip) to reduce the risk of dislocation in those early days and weeks.
4. Rehabilitation Is Essential
This is where your recovery really takes shape. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in:
Regaining strength and mobility
Improving your balance and gait
Reducing pain and stiffness
Returning to everyday activities — and beyond
You will be provided with some early stage rehab exercises to do while you are in hospital. You will be expected to continue with these once you are discharged from hospital and return home. Unfortunately, this is, for most people in the UK, where their progressive rehab plan comes to an end. Longer term rehab is not provided in most Trusts in the NHS yet further exercise progressions should be implemented at regular intervals post surgery to ensure you continue to be more mobile and develop strength and stability around your new hip joint.
Whether you want to comfortably walk the dog, get back to gym and sports activities, or simply move with confidence again, progressive rehab is crucial. Seeing a Physiotherapist after your first few weeks post-op to get a tailored rehab plan can really ensure you get back to all the activities you want to, safely, and without further pain and injury.
5. Patience Pays Off
Recovery from a total hip replacement can take several months and progress may come in waves. Some days will feel easier than others, but every step forward counts.
One positive to focus on is that the pain you had in your hip before your surgery should have resolved. You may have some post-surgical pain in the early days after surgery but know that this is only temporary and usually settles within just a few days to weeks.
The key is consistency: Stick with your exercises, stay active within your limits, and follow your physio’s advice closely. It’s all part of building a stronger, more mobile you.
6. You're Not Doing This Alone
Having a supportive team makes a world of difference. At Fairway Physio, we’re here to guide you from pre-op prep through to full recovery. We’re here to help people reclaim their independence and quality of life.
If you're scheduled for a total hip replacement or have questions about what to expect, please feel free to get in touch. We’d love to help you feel prepared, confident, and supported every step of the way.
Need help with your hip rehab?
Book a consultation today with one of our therapists and we'll get your recovery off to the best possible start.
