Post-Surgery Hip Pain: Recovery Challenges and Solutions

Postoperative pain after hip joint surgery?

Hello doctor, my grandmother had a hip replacement surgery before the Lunar New Year.
She is 69 years old, and the doctors said her hip joint recovery was good after the surgery.
However, she is currently in severe pain that extends down to her knee, and she is having difficulty walking, requiring a cane for assistance.
She is undergoing electrical stimulation therapy and heat therapy, but she says that after her treatments, she can hardly stand when she gets home.
We are unsure what to do next.

Hsin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/20

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

After hip joint surgery, recovery is generally good around three months.
If pain persists, it is necessary to return for a follow-up appointment and get an X-ray to determine where the issue lies.

Reply Date: 2016/04/20

More Info

Post-surgery hip pain is a common concern for many patients who undergo hip replacement surgery. It is important to understand that recovery from such a procedure can vary significantly from person to person, influenced by factors such as age, overall health, the extent of the surgery, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
In your grandmother's case, it is not unusual for her to experience significant pain and difficulty walking after hip replacement surgery, especially if it has only been a short time since the procedure. Typically, patients can expect some level of discomfort during the initial recovery phase, which can last several weeks to months. The pain she is experiencing, which radiates from the hip to the knee, could be attributed to several factors:
1. Postoperative Inflammation: After surgery, inflammation is a natural response as the body heals. This can lead to pain and swelling around the surgical site, which may extend to nearby areas such as the knee.

2. Muscle Weakness and Atrophy: Prolonged inactivity before and after surgery can lead to muscle weakness, particularly in the hip and thigh muscles. This weakness can contribute to instability and pain when attempting to walk or stand.

3. Nerve Sensitivity: Surgical procedures can sometimes irritate nearby nerves, leading to sensations of pain or discomfort that may not necessarily correlate with the surgical site itself.

4. Improper Rehabilitation: If the rehabilitation exercises are not being performed correctly or if they are too aggressive, this can exacerbate pain and hinder recovery. It is crucial that rehabilitation is tailored to her specific needs and progresses at a suitable pace.

5. Potential Complications: While rare, complications such as infection, blood clots, or issues with the implant itself can occur. If her pain is severe and persistent, it may warrant further investigation by her healthcare provider.

Given that your grandmother is currently undergoing electrical stimulation and heat therapy, these treatments can be beneficial in managing pain and promoting healing. However, it is essential to ensure that she is also engaging in appropriate physical therapy exercises designed to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve her range of motion.
If her pain continues to be debilitating, it is advisable to return to her orthopedic surgeon for a follow-up appointment. The surgeon may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the position of the implant and rule out any complications. Additionally, they may adjust her pain management plan or refer her to a physical therapist who specializes in post-operative rehabilitation.

In summary, while it is concerning that your grandmother is experiencing significant pain post-surgery, it is not uncommon. Recovery from hip replacement surgery can be a gradual process, and with the right support and rehabilitation, many patients can achieve improved mobility and reduced pain over time. Encouraging her to communicate openly with her healthcare team about her symptoms and progress will be key to her recovery journey.

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