Getting ready for hip surgery?

Hip surgery, whether it’s a total hip replacement or a minimally invasive procedure, can be life-changing for those suffering from chronic pain and mobility issues. While the surgery itself is an important step toward improving your quality of life, how you prepare beforehand can make a big difference in how quickly and effectively you recover. Here’s what you need to know ahead of the big day. 

Prehab: Your key to a smoother recovery 

One of the most critical components of preparing for hip surgery is pre-surgery physical therapy, or “prehab.” Patients who undergo prehab before hip surgery often recover faster and experience less post-operative pain. 

Prehab before a hip surgery will focus on strengthening the muscles around your hip joint, particularly your glutes, hamstrings, and core. That way, your body is better equipped to support your hip joint after surgery. Your regimen may include exercises such as leg lifts, squats, and bridges. 

Pre-surgery lifestyle changes 

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, it’s important to optimize your overall health. Doing so can reduce the risk of complications and help ensure a smoother recovery. Some important steps include:  

Keep your appointments. Expect to have the following visits leading up to your actual surgery: 

• A trip to get your lab work done  
• Your primary care physician, who will ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery  
• A specialist if you have any underlying health conditions, like heart or lung problems 
• A meeting with the anesthesiologist prior to surgery

That said, avoid scheduling any dental procedures in the six weeks before your surgery or the three months afterward. Germs in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and potentially infect your joint. 

Quit smoking. If you smoke, quitting before surgery is essential. Smoking reduces blood flow, slows down the healing process, and increases the risk of complications such as infections. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement options or support programs. 

Manage chronic conditions. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity can increase the risk of surgical complications. Work with your health care provider to make sure these conditions are well-managed before your surgery. Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions to optimize your health. 

Eat a nutrient-rich diet. In the weeks before surgery, focus on eating a balanced diet that provides your body with the nutrients it needs to heal. Lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are all important for promoting muscle repair and tissue healing. If your doctor recommends any supplements, such as vitamin D or calcium, be sure to follow their advice. 

Mentally prep for surgery 

Preparing for surgery isn’t just about getting your body ready. It’s also important to prepare your mind. Surgery can be an emotional experience, and it’s natural to feel anxious or worried in the weeks leading up to the procedure. 

Many patients find that knowing what to expect and having a clear recovery plan in place help ease their anxiety. Take time to talk to your surgeon about what you can expect during the surgery and the recovery period. Ask questions about pain management, mobility aids, and how long it will take before you can return to your normal activities. Being mentally prepared can improve your overall experience and make the recovery process feel less daunting. 

Plan ahead for post-op recovery 

One of the most important steps in preparing for hip surgery is making sure you’re ready for the recovery period. The first few weeks after surgery can be challenging, so it’s essential to have a plan in place. Before your surgery: 

• Ask for help. In the days following surgery, you’ll need help with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care. Make arrangements for a family member, friend, or home health aide to assist you. If you live alone, consider staying with someone or hiring help for the first few weeks of recovery. 
• Prepare your home. Create a recovery-friendly environment by making your home as accessible as possible. If your bedroom is upstairs, consider setting up a temporary sleeping area on the first floor. Make sure your bathroom is equipped with grab bars and a shower chair, and arrange furniture to create wide, clear paths for walking.
  
  You’ll likely need a walker or crutches after surgery, so make sure your living space is free of tripping hazards like loose rugs or clutter. It’s also a good idea to set up a comfortable chair with plenty of support, where you can rest and elevate your leg. If you find it difficult to get comfortable, you may consider renting or buying a supportive chair, such as a recliner. 

Know what to expect on surgery day 

Ahead of your procedure, your health care team will give you guidelines on what to do the day before and the morning of your hip surgery. They will let you know: 

• When to stop eating and drinking. Your doctor may advise you not to eat or drink after midnight on the night before your procedure, or they might give you other food and drink guidelines. Stop alcoholic drinks 48 hours before your procedure, longer if advised by your doctor. You may also need to follow a special diet as part of your prep. Be sure to ask your doctor. And don’t smoke or use tobacco products within 24 hours of your procedure. 
   
• When (and how) to prepare your skin. The night before or the morning of your procedure, take a shower and clean thoroughly with plain soap and water. Use medicated soap if recommended by your physician. Skip products with fragrances during and after your shower, and don’t apply lotions afterward. Scrub your fingernails with a brush and remove nail polish and acrylic nails. But don’t shave any hair on your upper leg or hip. That will happen at the hospital or outpatient center, if needed. 
   
• What to pack. Bring only the essentials. This includes your photo ID and health insurance information. Leave valuables, including jewelry, at home. For an overnight stay, carry only what you’ll need: a case for your glasses or contact lenses and for your dentures, flat walking shoes with nonslip soles, a lightweight robe, sweatpants, shorts, a T-shirt, and clothes to wear when you go home. 
   
• How long you’ll be staying. Depending on the type of hip surgery you’re having, you may either be discharged the same day or spend a few nights in the hospital. Your surgeon will explain what to expect based on the specifics of your procedure. Make sure to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home. 

Know what to expect before you’re discharged 

After hip surgery, your health care team will monitor your progress to ensure you’re stable enough to go home. Here are some key things to anticipate before you leave: 

• Get ready to walk. You’ll likely start walking with the help of a walker or crutches within a day or two of surgery. Early movement is important for preventing complications such as blood clots and promoting circulation, which aids in the healing process. 
   
• You won’t be pain-free, but you’ll feel a lot better. Although you’ll experience some discomfort after surgery, you should also feel significant relief from the pain that led to the procedure. Most patients report that their pain is manageable with medications. Your surgical team will modify your medications until you’re on a regimen that keeps the pain under control. 

Back at home 

Once you return home, your focus will shift to recovery. Here are a few tips to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible: 

• Wear slip-on shoes with a full back. These will keep you from having to bend over to tie your laces. Be sure they have a bottom surface with traction to avoid slips. 
   
• Keep up with your physical therapy. Physical therapy is an essential part of your recovery after hip surgery. Your physical therapist will guide you through exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility. Make space on your post-surgery calendar for your physical therapy routine. It plays a crucial role in your overall recovery and long-term success. 
   
• Continue healthy eating. Good nutrition can help your bones and your surgery wound heal more quickly. Eat a diet rich in protein and fiber, and drink lots of water. If your doctor gives you a post-op diet or suggests supplements or vitamins, follow their orders for best results. If you’re diabetic, keep your sugars tightly controlled to promote healing. 
   
• Stay active. While rest is important, staying active is also crucial for a successful recovery. Even light activity, such as short walks around your home, can strengthen the muscles around your hip, promote circulation, and prevent complications. Follow your doctor’s guidelines for gradually increasing your activity level as you heal. 

You’ve got this 

Preparing for hip surgery takes time and effort, but the steps you take before your procedure will set the stage for a smoother, faster recovery. By focusing on prehab, making healthy lifestyle changes, and planning for your post-surgery needs, you can improve your chances of a successful outcome and look forward to a future without hip pain.