Whether it is a planned hip replacement or an unexpected hip fracture, the path back to walking and independence runs through rehab. Knowing what to expect can make recovery feel more manageable for you and your family.
Quick takeaways
- Rehab usually begins within a day of hip surgery, with the goal of getting up and walking safely.
- Your surgeon may give you hip precautions, which are movements to avoid while the hip heals.
- Recovery after a hip fracture often takes longer than after a planned hip replacement, and rehab plays a big role.
- Preparing the home and preventing future falls are key parts of recovery.
Hip replacement vs. hip fracture
A hip replacement is usually a planned surgery to relieve pain from arthritis or joint damage. People often have time to prepare their home and build strength beforehand.
A hip fracture, or broken hip, is usually sudden and often follows a fall. Surgery to repair or replace the hip typically happens quickly. Because there is no time to prepare, and because people may have other health conditions, recovery often takes a little longer.
The first days after surgery
Most people start moving within a day of surgery. A physical therapist helps with sitting up, standing and walking a short distance with a walker. Early movement helps prevent stiffness, blood clots and pneumonia.
Hip precautions
Depending on how the surgery was done, your surgeon may ask you to follow hip precautions for several weeks. These protect the new or repaired joint while it heals. Common examples include:
- Not bending the hip past 90 degrees, such as leaning far forward in a chair
- Not crossing your legs or ankles
- Not turning your foot or knee inward
Not everyone has the same precautions, so follow the specific instructions from your surgeon and therapist.
Recovery is a team effort between the patient, the family and the therapy team.
The role of rehab
Some people go home with home or outpatient therapy. Many, especially after a hip fracture, spend a short time in subacute rehab first. There, physical and occupational therapists help with:
- Walking with a walker, then progressing to a cane
- Strengthening the hip and leg muscles
- Getting safely in and out of bed, chairs, the shower and the car
- Dressing with adaptive tools like a reacher or sock aid
- Climbing stairs, if needed at home
Recovery timeline
Everyone is different, but many people use a walker for the first few weeks, move to a cane after that and return to most daily activities in about six to eight weeks. Strength and endurance continue to improve for several months.
Getting ready to go home
- Set up a bedroom and bathroom on one floor if possible.
- Add a raised toilet seat, shower chair and grab bars if recommended.
- Clear walkways and remove loose rugs. Our fall prevention checklist walks through each room.
- Keep up your exercises, and build strength over time with strength training for older adults.
Recovering from a knee procedure instead? Read our guide to physical therapy after knee replacement.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to recover from hip replacement?
Many people walk with a walker or cane within days and return to most daily activities in about six to eight weeks. Full recovery can take several months.
What are hip precautions?
Hip precautions are movements to avoid while a new hip heals, to lower the risk of dislocation. Depending on the surgery, they may include not bending the hip past 90 degrees, not crossing the legs and not turning the foot inward. Your surgeon will tell you which apply to you.
How is hip fracture recovery different from hip replacement?
A hip fracture is usually unexpected and often happens after a fall, so people may be less prepared and have other health issues. Recovery often takes longer, and a stay in short-term rehab is common.
Do older adults need rehab after a broken hip?
Most do. Rehab helps rebuild strength, balance and walking, and teaches safe ways to manage daily tasks, which supports a safe return home.
When can I drive after hip surgery?
It depends on which hip was operated on, the type of car, your medications and your surgeon’s advice. Many people wait several weeks. Always check with your surgeon first.
This article is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Coverage rules can change, so confirm details with Medicare, your plan or your care team.
