Hip surgery can be a life-changing tool for individuals who experience chronic or persistent pain. Many people undergo alternative treatments and use therapies and mobility aids to reduce pain and improve their quality of life before undergoing surgery, but they are not always effective.

Hip replacement surgery restores the joint, replacing damaged, worn, or diseased tissue with artificial components. It can enhance mobility, help individuals regain confidence and independence, and reduce pain.

Recovering from hip surgery takes time and can be challenging. Typically, recovery takes up to 12 weeks, but times vary according to individual circumstances. It can take months for the full effects to become visible. Family members, friends, and caregivers play a critical role in supporting individuals and can significantly aid in the recovery process.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

The role of the caregiver and support system begins before the procedure. Family and friends can help individuals prepare in two key ways: providing practical help and offering emotional support.

Practical measures can include:

Helping with transportation to and from doctor appointments
Preparing the house with necessary recovery procedures (modifying the bathroom to make it easier to shower and use the toilet, etc.)
Helping with forms and administration
Assisting with household chores

Emotional support is equally important. It is natural for a person to feel apprehensive and nervous about undergoing a surgical procedure. Often, simply listening, offering advice, or being there to provide reassurance about a loved one’s concerns or worries can make a big difference.

Post-Surgery Care

There are multiple ways to help a friend or relative who has undergone hip surgery. The recovery period may take several weeks. It is expected that the patient will experience a range of emotions as well as pain and discomfort following surgery. Examples of side effects include:

Nausea
Swelling
Constipation
Pain
Blood Clots

After hip surgery, you can help with pain management by administering medication according to personalized schedules and assisting with exercises, which helps reduce swelling and improve mobility.

Wound care is an integral part of hip surgery recovery. If you’re helping, always wash your hands before changing and replacing dressings, keep the incision dry, and look out for signs of infection. Symptoms include:

Fever and chills
General exhaustion
Increased stiffness and swelling
Night sweats
Warmth around the incision
Wound weeping (this may consist of blood or pus)

Physical Rehabilitation

Physical therapy is essential for a full recovery after hip surgery. If you care for a friend or relative, you can help by encouraging them to stick to a tailored exercise regimen. Physical rehabilitation exercises can strengthen the patient’s joints, reduce pain, and increase their range of motion. Examples of targeted exercises for hip surgery recovery include:

Straight leg raises: Lift your leg when sitting with your legs in front of you.
Ankle pumps: Lie flat on your back and rotate between bending your ankle towards your body and pointing your toes.
Heel slides: Lie flat on your back and gently slide the heel towards the buttocks, bending the knee gently

Home modifications

Examples of home modifications to consider include:

Adding a supportive chair with adjustable arms
Adding grab rails in the shower and by the toilet
Adding secure handrails in the bathroom and stair banister
Clearing corridors to minimize the risk of trips and provide space for using walking aids
Raising the toilet seat or using a commode
Relocating beds and chairs to the main floor of your home to reduce the use of the stairs

Emotional and Psychological Support

Surgical procedures can take a toll on the body and the mind. Friends and family play a crucial role in aiding recovery by providing emotional and psychological support.

Companionship is one of the most important aspects of a smooth recovery. Individuals who have undergone surgery may feel frustrated, scared, and bored. They might also feel isolated and lonely, especially if they’re used to an active social life. Companionship helps to lower the risk of isolation and depression, and it’s also influential in maintaining a positive outlook and mindset. Spending time with friends and family also makes the hours pass by faster and can help motivate individuals to stick to exercise programs and rehabilitation schedules.

Self-Care for Caregivers

Caring for a loved one after surgery is a noble act, but it's essential for caregivers to prioritize their own well-being to provide the best support. Maintaining personal health through proper time management, exercise, healthy eating, and adequate rest will keep you energized and regulated. Seeking support from loved ones, support groups, and healthcare providers can help manage the challenges of caregiving.

Hip Surgery in Idaho Falls

Hip surgery is a major procedure. Recovery can take weeks, even months. Family members and friends play an essential role in helping individuals recover and reap the rewards of the procedure. Hip surgery can reduce pain, enhance quality of life, and restore movement and mobility. If you’re caring for a loved one, you can help in several ways, from providing emotional support to assisting with practical tasks.

If you’d like more information about how hip surgery in Idaho Falls can benefit you or your loved ones, contact our friendly team at Altenburg Joint Replacement today.

15 Aug 2024

Hip

How Family and Caregivers Aid in Hip Surgery Recovery