You may be able to walk as usual from a couple of weeks to about 3 months after hip replacement surgery. Recovery depends on factors like your overall health, your physical activity, and sticking to your recovery plan.
You may at first experience a limp. The limp should go away as you heal, typically within 3 months. Let your medical team know if it lasts more than 3 months after the procedure.
The process of getting back on your feet typically begins immediately after surgery. Your medical team will encourage you to get up and move around your hospital room about 4 hours after the procedure. This is important to prevent blood clots from forming. In the next 2 days at the hospital, you’ll increase your physical activity.
You may be given a walker or cane when you’re discharged from the hospital. It’s recommended that you have someone at home, like a friend or caregiver, to help for the first 1 to 2 weeks. It’s good to have important items within reach and avoid more than a few stairs.
You’ll be able to walk up or down a flight of stairs about a week after your surgery. Have someone help or use the handrail on the side you did NOT have surgery on. Take breaks when needed.
Running or jogging is not typical after a hip replacement unless the surgery is performed on someone who’s younger and very active. This would not occur until months following the procedure. But talk with your medical care team if you fall into this category.