How soon could you walk

Bones, joints and muscles
1

how soon after your THR could you walk independentl (no sticks/canes, etc.)? And how soon without a limp? I understand that everyone is different and it depends on the surgeon's approach (anterior, posterior, lateral), and whether the reason for surgery was due to OA or an injury. I am 7 weeks out, lateral approach, and had broken my hip in a huge fall. Just looking for some comparatives and perhaps a little inspiration

2

I'm 4 weeks out anterirlateral right hip replacment due to displasia, & osteoarthritis.  Just beginning to walk several yards w/o cane.  Just trying to do a little everyday since I am walking with a limp without it.

3

Hi Nana!

I am 6 months post op from THR that was due to OA. I had the lateral approach. I began walking without a cane in the house probably after 2 months. I still use a cane when I'm outside since I am still limping. My limp was extremely noticeable the first 2 months and it seems to be getting better little by little. My surgeon said to continue with the exercises because they will help the leg set back into place.

Good luck on your recovery

 

4

Dear Nana , 

You are right, it all depends on the individual progress - 

I am 20 days post op from 2nd THR and using 4-wheeled walker/trolley in and out of the house ... I thought I was doing fine with cane but new PT told me not to be so cocky and keep using the walker until I have mastered proper posture and balance - and he is right !!!! 

I am much more mindful now and slower - walker is a nuisance My ankles are bruised!!!) and I would really like to ditch it , but when I "forget" to use it, I can just feel how sloppy I move about ... still limping and waddling but more aware of it now ... so, I stop, erect my body, put one foot heel to toe and start walking -

tedious but worth it .

Is there anybody watching how you're walking? 

I still limp but think it is now more a habitual thing, having walked lobsided for so long .....

good luck .. take your time and be gentle with your self - 

big warm hug

renee

5

Hello

i am 4 weeks and trying daily to walk without a stick in the house and garden but still finding it tricky !! Yesterday I got sharp pains in my thigh and quickly got my stick so don't know if I was overdoing it !

at physio last week I was told to try without sticks so I am but I have physio today and will ask about progress . 

I am confused as to what is good pain and what is bad pain and you should stop the action immediately !!

i walk like a penguin lol

6

Hi Nana,I did quit a bit of exercises before and after op,I was About 4 weeks with crutches,then on to 1 stick,after 2 weeks I only used them outside.Then one day I went out in the car,not driving though,and I realised I didn't take my stick,I was very carefull so look forward to forgetting your sticks,you know when your ready,just enjoy the achievements and look after yourself Best Wishes.

7

OA patient, lateral approach. Down to one crutch at 2 weeks most of the time, stick by 6 weeks. Around the house unaided by 3-4 weeks, independent with limp 7-8 weeks. Now 6 months, still limp sometimes especially when tired. Needed extra physio

8

Ive had both hips replaced due to OA and am currently 5 weeks post op from right hip. I am walking pretty much everywhere in the house without sticks but still take one when I am out as I get tired easily. 

Im not really in any pain now just some stiffness and yes, I waddle lol. It'll take a while longer to lose the waddle if my first hip was anything to go by.

You will get there, at your own pace 😊