Is leg/foot swelling normal after total hip replacement

Bones, joints and muscles
1

Just had a total hip replacement 9 days ago about 3 days ago my leg & foot started swelling is this normal ?

2

Hello Patricia

Are you still wearing those dreaded stockings.  Also, are you moving around now on crutches.  If you are doing these things then perhaps it would be advisable to speak to your doctor.

All the best.

3

Expect swelling 3-6 months after surgery . Keep leg elevated and treat will cold packs.

if swelling persists, redness or hot to touch cal your doctor. Wear compression socks and ankle pumps walking as much as possible. Leg pumps on amazon called air pumps by battery can also help with circulation. 

4

Dear Patricia

I did not suffer as you are but suggest rest with leg elevation and ice packs or iced bandages. The stretch stockings if correctly sized should also help.

Cheers Richard

5

Yep - will probably last a few months 👣

6

Hi Patricia, this is quite normal. I'm now 3 weeks post op and I started with a swollen leg after week 1, like you. It now spreads from my knee, down my leg to my ankle, foot and toes. It's starting to go down, gradually. I have an ice pack that I use, but it doesn't seem to make much difference. I guess we just have to be patient.

Norm

7

Sure is! My foot was so swollen I couldn't put it in my crocs. I think all the ice they packed my hip in chased fluids down and gravity took over. It got better by the end of the third week. 

8

Bit scary at first but very common.  Is it better after you’ve slept in bed at night but gets worse during day?  I was told to put a pillow under my feet at night to elevate them.  Went away after a few weeks.  Think you should see a doc. if it’s painful to touch.