If your surgery and rehabilitation have gone well, by the end of three months you should be coping well with most normal activities. Best of all, the disabling pain in your hip or knee which led you to have the surgery should no longer be a problem.
The following information, including photos and video clips, is meant to reassure you and to help you return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible:
During the First Three Months
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you get used to living with your new joint... more
Tips for Everyday Living
Here are some general guidelines about how to carry out common activities after knee or hip replacement surgery, including how to use a walker and cane, how to bathe, shower and dress yourself, how to go up and down stairs, how to get in and out of bed, and how to get in and out of a car... more
Getting Back to Work
If you work outside the home, how soon you can return to your job will depend on many factors... more
Leisure and Sports Activities
Your surgeon will tell you what is considered safe. In general, avoid "high impact, high contact" activities... more
A Few Words About Sex
A satisfying sexual relationship is important for most of us, and many patients wonder how knee or hip replacement surgery might affect this aspect of their lives... more