Recovery Time for Hip Replacement: Week by Week
If you’re planning to undergo a total hip replacement, one of the biggest questions on your mind is probably: how long will it take to recover? Recovery time for hip replacements can vary from person to person depending on age, general health, the surgical approach used, and how closely you follow your rehab plan. But having a clear idea of what’s ahead can help you prepare both physically and mentally.
Here’s what to expect from your total hip replacement recovery week by week, plus key tips and guidance to help you heal well.
What Is a Hip Replacement?
A total hip replacement is a surgical procedure where a damaged or worn-out hip joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant. It’s usually recommended for people with severe arthritis, joint degeneration, or hip fractures that haven’t responded to conservative treatment. The new joint typically includes a metal or ceramic ball and socket, designed to mimic the natural motion of your hip and reduce pain.
Modern surgical techniques, including minimally invasive options like the posterior or anterior approach, allow for faster recovery, less tissue damage, and fewer complications. Most patients who undergo this surgery regain improved mobility and quality of life.
Week 1: Rest, Ice and Short Walks
In the first few days after surgery, you’ll likely still be in the hospital. The focus here is pain control, preventing blood clots, and starting very gentle movement.
You’ll typically:
Use a walker or crutches to get around
Begin light physiotherapy exercises to keep blood flowing
Ice the joint to reduce swelling
Most patients are discharged within 3–5 days. You’ll usually begin walking the same day as your surgery with assistance, and basic tasks like using the bathroom will be a focus of early mobility.
By the end of the week, you should be able to move short distances independently.
Week 2: Getting Mobile at Home
As you return home, your goal will be to safely move around your house and perform basic daily tasks. You’ll continue using a walking aid and start building your strength through physio.
At this stage, it’s normal to feel tired and stiff. Stick to your surgeon’s recovery plan and avoid overdoing it. Keeping walkways clear, using supportive furniture, and wearing stable shoes can help reduce fall risk.
If your mobility is limited or you’re still struggling with pain, reach out to your care team.
Weeks 3–6: Building Strength and Confidence
This phase is all about progression. With ongoing physiotherapy and movement, you’ll start to:
Walk longer distances with less support
Climb stairs with assistance
Perform more complex exercises
It’s also around this point that most people can return to light, non-strenuous activities such as desk work or short outings. If you’re aged 60–80, your recovery time for hip replacement may take slightly longer, but you’ll still see steady improvement each week.
Hip replacement recovery time for 60-year-old patients often sees them resume light duties within 4 to 6 weeks. Many people aged 60–70 return to daily routines and even driving, depending on their progress and which leg was operated on.
Weeks 7–12: Back to Normal Activities
By this point, your new hip should feel stronger and more stable. You may no longer need a walking aid, and you’ll be working on:
Regaining full range of motion
Improving balance and coordination
Strengthening muscles around the joint
Patients often ask about hip replacement recovery time 70 year-old or hip replacement recovery time 80 year-old. While older adults may take longer to fully regain strength, age isn’t a barrier to successful recovery, especially when supported by an expert care team.
Older patients who follow their rehab plan closely often achieve excellent mobility by 12 weeks. Explore how we support all age groups through our hip surgery care approach.
Long-Term Recovery: 3–12 Months
Full recovery can take up to a year, particularly if you’re returning to more demanding physical activity. But most people experience major improvements in pain, function, and movement by 3 to 6 months.
Ongoing physiotherapy and staying active are crucial. Consistent rehab, regular low-impact exercise such as walking or swimming, and avoiding high-impact sports are key to long-term joint health. Follow your specialist’s advice to reduce the risk of complications and support joint function.
What Can Affect Your Recovery Time?
Recovery from hip surgery isn’t one-size-fits-all. A few key factors that can influence your healing timeline include:
Your age – Older adults may take longer to regain mobility, but excellent outcomes are still achievable.
Overall health – Pre-existing conditions like diabetes or heart disease may slow healing.
Surgical approach – Some patients benefit from less invasive methods such as the Posterior Approach Hip Replacement, which may aid faster recovery and better long term outcome.
Commitment to rehab – Your participation in physiotherapy plays a big role in long-term success.
If you’re experiencing complications or feel like your recovery has plateaued, consult your surgeon promptly.
Signs You’re on Track (or Not)
Everyone heals at their own pace, but here are some signs your hip replacement recovery time is progressing properly:
Gradually increase walking distance without pain
Can bend, sit, and climb stairs more easily
Sleep better and rely less on pain medication
Attend physio without setbacks
See your specialist if you:
Have worsening pain or swelling after the initial healing phase
Experience fever, redness or drainage around the wound
Struggle with mobility despite physiotherapy
Hear popping or grinding in the joint
Staying informed and attentive to your progress helps you catch issues early and get back on track with support from your care team.
Support After Surgery
Working with an experienced orthopaedic surgeon like Dr David Sime ensures a personalised, well-managed recovery. For many patients, particularly those managing previous injuries or trauma, other procedures such as knee alignment surgery or patellar dislocation treatment may also be part of the long-term plan. We also support patients undergoing orthopaedic trauma treatment and complex recovery needs.
Whether you’re recovering from trauma or undergoing a planned joint replacement, the right surgeon can make all the difference.
FAQs — Hip Replacement Recovery Timeframe
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Most people return to light daily activities within 6 to 12 weeks. Full recovery can take 6 to 12 months.
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Yes, you’ll usually begin walking with assistance within a day or two after surgery.
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Recovery may take a little longer, but with proper rehab, most people see great outcomes.
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Older adults often recover well, though they may take more time to regain full strength and mobility.
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Recovery can be quicker for people in their 60s with good overall health and strong rehab adherence.
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Staying active, attending physio, following post-op instructions, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle all help.