How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Hip Replacement?

Recovering from a hip replacement takes time, patience and the right rehabilitation.

At Village Physio, we provide home hip replacement physiotherapy in Rotherham, Sheffield, Doncaster and Barnsley. One of the most common questions we hear is:

“How long will it take before I feel normal again?”

The honest answer is – it depends. But there are typical stages most people go through.

Week 1–2 After Surgery

In the early stage, it is normal to experience:

• Swelling around the hip

• Bruising

• Stiffness

• Pain when moving

• Fatigue

You will usually walk with crutches or a frame. The focus is:

• Gentle mobility

• Preventing stiffness

• Safe transfers in and out of bed or chairs

• Short, regular walks

Weeks 3–6

During this stage:

• Swelling reduces

• Walking distance increases

• Strength gradually improves

• Confidence starts to return

However, this is also when some people push too quickly.

Without guided physiotherapy, it is common to develop:

• Limping

• Compensatory walking patterns

• Weak glute muscles

• Ongoing stiffness

This is where home physio can make a significant difference.

Weeks 6–12

By this stage:

• Many people are walking without aids

• Strength improves

• Stairs feel easier

• Pain is significantly reduced

But balance and hip strength may still need work.

Targeted rehabilitation helps restore:

• Normal walking pattern

• Hip stability

• Confidence outdoors

• Safe return to daily activities

Why Physiotherapy Matters After Hip Replacement

Surgery replaces the joint, and physiotherapy restores the movement.

At Village Physio, our home-based rehabilitation focuses on:

• Strengthening the muscles around the hip

• Improving balance

• Correcting walking mechanics

• Reducing stiffness

• Preventing falls

We practise real-life tasks – stairs, transfers, getting in and out of cars – in your own home environment.

When Should You Start Physiotherapy?

Ideally:

• Immediately after discharge from the hospital

• Or as soon as mobility feels limited

• If you notice limping or weakness

• If confidence has reduced

Early intervention often leads to faster recovery.

Looking for Hip Replacement Physiotherapy in South Yorkshire?

Village Physio provides one-hour home visits across:

• Rotherham

• Sheffield

• Doncaster

• Barnsley

If you or a loved one is recovering from hip replacement surgery, we can help rebuild strength, balance and independence safely at home.