How long after hip replacement surgery can I walk without mobility aids?

After undergoing hip replacement surgery, the road to recovery can be a gradual and sometimes challenging process. Walking a little every day will go a long way in helping you regain full mobility and strength. However, to ensure a safe and successful recovery, it's important not to push yourself into walking unaided too soon. 

In this guide, we’ll discuss what to expect when it comes to walking after hip replacement surgery, and how long it may take before you can walk independently. We’ll also explore the various mobility and walking aids available to help support you while your new hip heals.

Walking after hip replacement surgery: what to expect

Walking after hip replacement surgery may initially be difficult or painful, but it's an essential part of the recovery process. Your healthcare team will encourage you to start walking as soon as possible after your surgery – often on the same day. Walking little and often after your hip replacement will:

• Improve mobility and flexibility in your new hip joint
• Help strengthen the muscles around the hip
• Improve your circulation to prevent blood clots 

In the early stages of recovery, you won’t be able to walk independently straight away. You'll need to use walking aids, such as crutches or a walking frame, to support your weight and maintain balance.

How long after hip replacement can I walk unaided?

On average, most people can start walking without mobility aids between 2 and 6 weeks after a hip replacement. However, this can vary depending on factors such as your age, overall health and level of mobility before the surgery. 

Your commitment to physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises will also make a big difference in your recovery timeline. However, there is such a thing as walking too much after hip replacement surgery, so follow your doctor’s advice. Walking unsupported too soon can increase the risk of complications, such as falling or dislocating the new hip joint.

Remember, there's no shame in using mobility aids for as long as necessary. Your safety and successful recovery should be your top priorities.

Walking aids for hip replacement surgery

After hip replacement surgery, walking aids are essential in helping you regain your strength safely. They not only provide stability and balance but also reduce strain on your new hip joint, allowing it to heal properly. 

There are various mobility and walking aids available to accommodate your changing needs throughout the recovery process. Let’s explore some of the most popular options.

Walking frames

Walking frames are also known as walkers or zimmer frames. They are particularly useful in the early stages of hip replacement recovery, when you may feel unsteady and require extra support. These sturdy devices have four legs and a handgrip, allowing you to lean your weight onto the frame as you walk.

Basic walking frames have four non-slip rubber feet. Some people find two-wheeled walkers easier to use, as you only need to lift up the back feet to move. You can also get foldable frames for convenient transportation, and frames that come with shelves or bags for personal items.

Rollators or wheeled walkers with four wheels can also be useful, especially for walking outdoors later in your recovery. They are typically designed more for offering stability rather than supporting your entire body weight.

Which ever walking frame you use , you will need to get the correct height for your needs. 

How to measure for a walking frame: 

When choosing a walking frame, it is important that you ensure the handle height will be suitable for you as well as being under the maximum user weight. 

• Put on the shoes you would usually be wearing when you want to use the walking frame
• Stand with your arms hanging at the side of your body and your head upright and facing forwards
• Measure the distance from the ground to the bony part of the wrist

Crutches

As your recovery progresses and you no longer require a walking frame, you may wish to switch to crutches. Their forearm cuffs provide more support than a walking stick, but they are less bulky than walking frames. This makes crutches easier to manoeuvre through doorways and up and down stairs. You can use one crutch or two depending on your level of mobility after hip replacement surgery.

Foldable crutches allow for easy storage and travel, while adjustable crutches can be altered to accommodate varying heights. Some crutches come with ergonomic padded handles for added comfort, or flexible feet for better grip on various surfaces.

Walking sticks and canes

As you start walking independently again, you may still benefit from a little extra support – especially when walking longer distances. A walking stick or cane is the ideal mobility aid for this stage of your recovery. 

Walking sticks are designed to provide balance and confidence while allowing you to move more freely. There are several options available, including various colours and designs, height-adjustable sticks and ergonomic grips for a comfortable hold. Lightweight collapsible walking sticks are ideal for bringing along in a bag in case you get tired.

At Complete Care Shop, we understand the importance of finding the right mobility aids to support your recovery after hip replacement surgery. Contact us for more information, or reach out to our in-house Occupational Therapists for free, expert product advice.