If your hip hurts, it’s a clear sign that…

Prosthetics step by step: what to expect?

Many people are scared by the mere thought of surgery. Let’s take a look at how it usually goes:

✔️Before the operation:

• Complete examinations: blood tests, X-ray or MRI.

• Consultation with an anesthesiologist.

• Home preparation (comfortable bed, bathroom rails, crutches or a cane).

✔️On the day of the surgery:

• Lasts 1–2 hours.

• Spinal anesthesia is usually used (you are awake but pain-free).

✔️After the surgery:

• The very next day, the patient starts to get up and take his first steps with the help of the medical team.

• After 1–3 months, normal activity is restored.

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Life after: how to maintain the result for a long time

✅Regular check-ups with an orthopedist.

✅Maintaining a healthy weight.

✅Moderate physical activity — lifelong.

✅Quitting smoking — it slows down recovery.

✅Proper shoes and orthopedic insoles.

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Most importantly: take care of yourself!

Hip wear and tear is not a sentence. The sooner you recognize that your joint needs help, the better your chances of maintaining pain-free mobility. Listen to your body, don’t be afraid to seek professional help, and share your experiences with others.

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Tell your story!

If you have already been through pain, treatment, or surgery — write about it! Your story can be a support for someone who is now taking the first steps towards a healthy hip.

🗂️Useful checklist: questions to ask your doctor before surgery

If you or your loved ones are about to have a hip replacement surgery, don’t hesitate to ask questions! Here is a sample list:

✅What type of prosthesis is right for me?

✅What material will the implant be made of?

✅What is its average durability?

✅What are the risks of complications and how can I avoid them?

✅How many days will I be in the hospital?

✅When will I be able to return to work?

✅Will I need help at home?

✅What exercises are mandatory after surgery?

✅What should I do if the pain returns?

Tip: write down these questions and bring them with you to the exam so you don’t miss anything.

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📅Recovery diary: the first 4 weeks after surgery

Proper rehabilitation is half the battle. Here is a tentative plan (but always consult with your surgeon and physiotherapist):

📌Week 1

• Getting out of bed with help.

• Light exercises: moving the toes, bending the knee.

• Learning to walk with crutches or a walker.

📌Week 2

• Increase walking.

• Muscle strengthening exercises.

• Correct sitting and standing.

📌Week 3

• First attempts at walking without crutches.

• Exercises with a rubber band (as directed).

• Climbing and descending 1–2 steps.

📌Week 4

• Gradually increase walking distance.

• Continued exercises.

• If necessary — plan with a rehabilitater.

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