Hip Replacement
Full recovery after total hip replacement
What is this surgery?
In a total hip replacement (THR), the damaged hip joint is replaced by an artificial prosthesis made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. The procedure is performed for advanced arthritis, hip fractures, or other serious joint conditions. The goal is to restore pain-free movement and full mobility. In Belgium, over 25,000 hip prostheses are implanted each year — a routine yet significant procedure that requires targeted aftercare.
Why is rehabilitation essential?
- Restore muscle strength after immobilisation
- Safe gait training and fall prevention
- Scar mobilisation and oedema reduction
- Accelerate return to daily life, work, and sport
- Prevent complications (thrombosis, dislocation)
Treatment objectives
- Complete pain-free daily life
- Independent walking without aids
- Safe stair use
- 90°+ hip flexion for sitting and driving
- Return to light sports (swimming, cycling)
What to expect?
Weeks 1–2: In Hospital & at Home
You leave hospital after 3–5 days with walking aids. First steps are painful but normal. Positioning rules must be strictly followed (no leg crossing). Physiotherapy begins the day after surgery.
Weeks 3–6: Outpatient Rehabilitation
Regular sessions at our practice. You become increasingly independent and need fewer painkillers. The scar heals and swelling decreases. Many patients walk without aids during this phase.
Weeks 7–12: Return to Normality
Most daily activities are possible again: driving, light housework, short walks. The training programme becomes more intensive. Swimming and cycling are generally cleared.
Our treatment programme
Phase 1 — Weeks 1–3
- Pain reduction & oedema management
- Passive & active-assisted mobilisation
- Gait training with walking aids
- Lymphatic drainage if needed
Phase 2 — Weeks 4–6
- Muscle strengthening (hip abductors, gluteus)
- Coordination & balance
- Walking without aids
- Stair climbing
Phase 3 — Weeks 7–12
- Return to daily activities
- Sport-specific training
- Fall prevention training
- Final assessment
Risks without structured rehabilitation
- Increased dislocation risk without rehab
- Muscle atrophy and gait deviations
- Persistent pain from scar tissue
- Delayed return to daily activities (up to 6 months longer)
Ready for your rehabilitation?
Book an initial assessment — we create your personalised programme.