Hip Replacement Recovery: Common Concerns and Weight Limits

Hip arthroplasty revision

Hello, Dr.
Shi:
I underwent a total hip replacement last September, approximately 33 years after my first replacement.
This time, the surgery involved the use of allograft bone.
It has been nearly nine months post-operation, but my operated leg cannot fully bear weight, and I still need to use a cane.
Is this normal? What could be the reasons for this?
Additionally, I would like to ask about the restrictions on lifting heavy objects after a hip replacement.
How much weight is considered too heavy? Is there a conversion formula, such as a percentage of my body weight? This has been a question I have struggled to understand and have not received an answer to.
Thank you.

Mr. Zhang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/29

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Post-surgery weakness may be related to pre-existing function.
If there was already weakness before the surgery, it may take a longer time to recover, possibly one to two years.
Additionally, if bone grafting was performed, one must wait until the bone has fully healed to support body weight.
Generally, lifting heavy objects should not exceed 10 to 20 kilograms, and there is no formula to calculate this.

Reply Date: 2021/05/29

More Info

Hip replacement surgery, whether it's a primary or revision procedure, is a significant intervention aimed at relieving pain and restoring function in patients with severe hip joint damage. Recovery from hip replacement surgery can vary widely among individuals, influenced by factors such as age, overall health, pre-existing conditions, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

In your case, having undergone a hip replacement revision approximately nine months ago, it is not uncommon to still require the use of a cane for support. The healing process can take time, especially if the surgery involved the use of allograft (donor bone). The need for assistive devices like a cane may indicate that your hip joint is still regaining strength and stability. Factors contributing to prolonged reliance on a cane can include:
1. Muscle Weakness: After surgery, the muscles surrounding the hip joint may be weak due to disuse or atrophy. Strengthening these muscles through physical therapy is crucial for regaining full function.

2. Pain Management: If you are experiencing pain during weight-bearing activities, it may lead you to avoid putting full weight on the operated leg, thus necessitating the use of a cane.

3. Joint Stability: The integration of the allograft into your body takes time. If the bone has not fully healed or integrated with the graft, it may affect your ability to bear weight comfortably.

4. Rehabilitation Progress: Individual recovery timelines can vary. Some patients may take longer to regain full strength and balance, especially if they had pre-existing conditions affecting their mobility before the surgery.

Regarding weight limits after hip replacement, it is generally advised to avoid lifting heavy objects to protect the joint and ensure proper healing. While there is no strict formula universally applicable to all patients, a common guideline is to avoid lifting more than 10-20 pounds (approximately 4.5-9 kg) in the initial months post-surgery. This limit can vary based on individual circumstances and the surgeon's recommendations.
It's important to note that the weight limit is not necessarily a percentage of your body weight but rather a general guideline to prevent undue stress on the hip joint. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds (68 kg), lifting 10-20 pounds is a safe range, but lifting more than that could risk complications or delay recovery.

In summary, your experience of needing a cane nine months post-surgery is not unusual, especially considering the complexity of your case involving a revision and allograft. Continued rehabilitation focused on strengthening the hip and surrounding muscles, along with following your surgeon's guidelines regarding weight limits, will be essential for your recovery. Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon will help monitor your progress and adjust your rehabilitation plan as needed. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation.

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