FAQs

How do I pick things up off the floor soon after hip replacement surgery?
Use a long-handled reacher so you do not bend over past your knees. Please see the post-op hip precautions section.

Can I run after joint replacement surgery?
I do not recommend running and jumping as it can cause your prosthesis to prematurely fail. However, you will be able to be very active and participate in low impact sports.

How long will I be off work?
This depends on your job. If you have a sit down type of job you may be able to return to work in 1 month. If your job requires more strenuous activities then it may take 8-10 weeks.

How soon may I drive?
Most patients feel comfortable driving after 3 weeks. I don't recommend trying to drive any earlier than this as you may not be safe. Be careful getting in and out of the car if you've had your hip replacement.

How long will my replacement last?
Most replacements are still doing well at 15 years. We don't know how long they will last as the materials keep improving and our 10 and 15 year results keep getting better.

How do I get into the car soon after hip replacement?
Have the car parked several feet away from the curb. Standing in the street, turn your back to the car and sit down on the seat while extending your operated leg. Remember not to lean forward. Slide slowly back on the seat, keeping your legs straight. Swing your legs around the front of the seat to rest on the floor. Make sure your hips are higher than your knees; do not sit in a low bucket seat. You may want to sit in the back seat with the operated leg propped up on the seat. Keep your feet together and your knees apart.

How soon can I travel after surgery?
I want the swelling in your leg to go down to lower the risk of getting a blood clot and this usually takes 5 weeks. If you travel a long distance before this time with a markedly swollen leg, it increases the risk of a blood clot and I don't recommend this.

Am I too young to have my joint replaced?
Joint replacement surgery is recommended when all other options to decrease your pain and improve your quality of life have failed. Certainly the younger you are, the more likely you will need the joint revised in the future and this can be done successfully. I have replaced a joint in a 19-year-old and a 94-year-old.