Hip Resurfacing Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for hip resurfacing: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Blood Clot Prevention
- •Move frequently, even if just ankle pumps
- •Stay hydrated
- •Take blood thinners if prescribed
- •Report any calf pain, swelling, or shortness of breath immediately
Hip Resurfacing recovery, day by day
Pain & Medication
- Take prescribed pain medication before anesthesia fully wears off
- Elevate the affected area above heart level
- Apply ice: 20 min on, 20 min off
Mobility
- Use crutches or walker as instructed
- No weight bearing unless cleared by your surgeon
- Ankle pumps and gentle toe wiggles to prevent blood clots
Wound Care
- Keep surgical dressing clean and dry
- Do NOT remove bandages unless instructed
- Watch for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, drainage
Movement
- Short walks every 1-2 hours to prevent blood clots
- Perform prescribed exercises as directed
- Follow hip precautions: no crossing legs, no bending past 90°
Recovery Progress
- Bruising and swelling should begin to improve
- Gradually increase activity as tolerated
- Transition to over-the-counter pain medication as directed
Physical Therapy
- Begin physical therapy as prescribed (usually week 1-2)
- Consistency with exercises is critical for recovery
- Do not push through sharp pain
Continued Recovery
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Continue physical therapy exercises
- Gradually increase weight-bearing as cleared by your surgeon
- Full recovery timeline varies; follow your surgeon's guidance
When to call your provider or 911
- •Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) that doesn't respond to medication
- •Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure
- •Severe pain not managed by prescribed medication
- •Signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing
- •Chest pain, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat
- •Redness, warmth, or pus at the incision site (signs of infection)
- •Sudden increase in swelling or pain after initial improvement
- •Numbness or tingling that worsens
- •Calf pain, swelling, or warmth (possible blood clot)
- •Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
- •Joint feels unstable or gives way
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Swelling peaks then improves
Bruising and swelling start resolving
- Day 7
Begin physical therapy
Start prescribed PT exercises
- Day 45
Weight bearing progress
Gradually increase activity as cleared
- Day 90
Expected recovery
Resume normal activities per surgeon's guidance
For clinics
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