Your Guide to Hip Replacement Recovery

Your Guide to Hip Replacement Recovery

Hip replacement surgery has become increasingly common in the United States as people live longer, stay active later in life, and seek relief from severe arthritis or hip damage. For many, it offers the chance to move without constant pain and return to the activities they love.

As you consider hip replacement surgery, this article will help you understand the timeline of recovery and what to expect:

• How long will recovery take?
• What will the first few weeks feel like?
• Are there side effects you should watch for?

Everyone’s journey is different, but knowing what’s ahead can help you feel prepared and confident.

Learn more about hip replacement surgery.

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

“Once it has progressed to the point that it is bone-on-bone arthritis, then hip replacement is the only way we have of effectively treating that condition.”

— Josh Carothers, MD

A hip replacement is a procedure where the damaged parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial components. It’s most often recommended for people with severe arthritis or hip damage that limits daily movement and causes significant pain. 

Find an orthopedics clinic near you.

What to Expect After Hip Replacement Surgery

"Most patients we can let go home the same day, but for various reasons we may elect to keep some patients overnight for monitoring.”

— Josh Carothers, MD, Orthopedic Surgery

Recovery begins right away in the hospital. Many patients stand or walk with help the same day as surgery. Some people go home within hours, while others may stay overnight.

Typical first steps after surgery:

“Physical therapy will typically get you up the day of surgery… You can put as much weight as you want to on your new hip (unless otherwise instructed).”

— Stephen G. Littlejohn, MD, Orthopedic Surgery

• Walking with assistance (walker or crutches)
• Pain managed with medication
• Swelling and soreness around the incision
• Basic instructions for moving safely
• Possible overnight hospital stay

Hip Replacement Recovery Timeline

Healing happens in stages. Here’s what a typical recovery looks like:

Early Recovery (0–6 Weeks)

• Walking with a cane or walker
• Beginning physical therapy exercises
• Reducing swelling and stiffness
• Follow-up visits with your doctor

Intermediate Recovery (6–12 Weeks)

• Walking longer distances with little or no support
• Driving (with doctor approval)
• Returning to light chores and activities
• Building strength and balance through PT

Advanced Recovery (12 Weeks–1 Year)

• Resuming most daily activities
• Exercising with less restriction
• Continued improvements in mobility
• Full tissue healing and endurance

How New Technologies Are Making Hip Replacement Recovery Smoother

Thanks to advances in surgical tools and protocols, recovery today is often easier than it used to be — though it’s still a major surgery.

• Robotic-assisted & computer navigation improve implant placement accuracy, reducing complications and discomfort.
• Minimally invasive / muscle-sparing approaches use smaller incisions and limit muscle damage, meaning less pain and shorter hospital stays.
• Better implant designs & materials are easier on surrounding tissue and built to last, which can reduce stress during recovery.
• Modern anesthesia & pain control lead to less pain, fewer side effects, and faster mobility.
• Pre-op planning with imaging & AI helps surgeons customize the procedure, leading to smoother recovery plans.
• Faster rehab protocols let patients begin physical therapy sooner, regaining mobility more quickly.

Important Realities About Hip Replacement Recovery

Even with these advances, recovery isn’t instant or effortless. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• It’s still major surgery — bones and tissues need time to heal.
• Personal health matters — age, fitness, and medical conditions can affect recovery.
• Surgeon experience makes a difference — outcomes are best with surgeons skilled in newer techniques.
• Not every patient is eligible — some approaches may not fit your health needs.
• Long-term data is still building — newer implants and techniques haven’t all been tested over decades.
• Patience is key — recovery may be faster than before, but therapy and self-care are still essential.

Factors That Affect Recovery

Everyone heals differently. Recovery time may depend on:

• Age – older adults may need more time
• Overall health – conditions like diabetes can slow healing
• Weight – extra pressure on joints may affect mobility
• Fitness level before surgery – stronger muscles support faster recovery
• Commitment to physical therapy – following exercises closely makes a big difference

Hip Replacement Side Effects: What’s Normal & When to Call a Doctor

Common side effects (expected):

• Temporary swelling or bruising
• Mild stiffness or soreness
• Fatigue

Call your doctor if you notice:

• Fever, redness, or drainage at the incision
• Severe or increasing pain
• Numbness or tingling in the leg
• Swelling in the leg or sudden chest pain (possible blood clot)
• Legs feeling uneven in length

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Practical steps can make recovery easier and safer:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions closely
• Get plenty of rest and sleep
• Eat nutritious foods for healing
• Avoid smoking and excess alcohol
• Prepare your home (clear walkways, add handrails if needed)
• Commit to physical therapy
• Use pain management strategies as prescribed
• Ask for emotional support — recovery can be mentally challenging too

Why Choose CHRISTUS for Your Hip Replacement?

When you’re facing hip replacement surgery, your choice of provider matters. At CHRISTUS, we combine advanced technology with compassionate, patient-centered care so you can recover with confidence.

• Nationally Recognized Quality
  Many CHRISTUS hospitals hold Advanced Certification for Total Hip & Knee Replacement from The Joint Commission, a mark of proven safety and excellent outcomes.
• Advanced Technology
  Our surgeons use precision-guided and robotic systems like the Mako™ robotic-arm to help place implants accurately, protect healthy tissue, and support a smoother recovery.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques
  Options like the anterior approach avoid cutting major muscles, which means less pain, lower risk of dislocation, and quicker rehab for many patients.
• Personalized Care & Support
  From pre-op “Joint Camp” education to seamless follow-up, our teams guide you through every step of your surgery and recovery journey.
• Expert Orthopedic Surgeons Close to Home
  With fellowship-trained specialists across Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico, you don’t have to travel far for high-level joint replacement care.
• Faster Recovery, Less Time in the Hospital
  Thanks to improved surgical approaches and recovery protocols, many CHRISTUS patients walk the same day and return home within 24 hours.

Find a CHRISTUS Orthopedics Clinic Near You

Hip replacement surgery can give you back comfort and mobility. To explore your options, find a CHRISTUS clinic near you.