Recovering from Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that requires very small keyhole incisions, which leads to shorter recovery times and rapid return to activity/sport. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning that most often you can go home on the same day as the surgery. The procedure itself typically takes 60-90 minutes. Patients generally receive general anesthesia during the procedure. Recovery from hip arthroscopy will vary depending on the individual and the specific procedure performed. This is a general timeline for recovery from hip arthroscopy.
Immediately after the procedure, you will spend a few hours in the recovery room while the effects of the anesthesia wear off and the medical staff monitors your vital signs.
Once you are stable and able to walk with the aid of crutches, you will be permitted to go home. It’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home because you had general anesthesia and will not be permitted to drive yourself. Most people go home the same day of surgery or within 24 hours. You should expect to have someone stay with you for at least the first night after surgery.
Your LALL Orthopedics + surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions for care including pain management, weight bearing restrictions, follow up appointments and personalized milestones based on your condition and progress. You may need to wear a hip brace and use crutches for a short time during the recovery process.
Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications for short term relief as well as over the counter anti-inflammatories to help with any discomfort in the early stage of recovery. Also, you may need to take medication to help prevent blood clots for a short time. In addition, resting, applying ice packs and elevating the affected leg can help to reduce swelling and shorten the overall recovery time.
You will have a follow-up appointment with your LALL Orthopedics + surgeon at this time. They may remove any sutures and evaluate your progress with physical therapy, which begins one day following surgery. The rapid recovery protocol focuses on gentle exercises to improve strength and range-of-motion.
You will continue with physical therapy and gradually increase the intensity and complexity of exercises. You may start weight-bearing exercises and work on strengthening the hip joint and surrounding muscles. Some individuals may be able to discontinue using crutches during this period.
Most patients can bear full weight on the affected leg and start transitioning to normal walking. Physical therapy will continue to focus on improving hip strength, stability, and flexibility. You may be able to resume some low-impact activities and sports, depending on your progress and the guidance of your LALL Orthopedics + surgeon.
By this time, most daily activities can be resumed, and you may be able to gradually return to more vigorous exercises and sports. Committing to long-term rehabilitation exercises, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and following up with your LALL Orthopedics + surgeon for periodic check-ins will help ensure a successful recovery.
It is important to understand that this is a general timeline. Your LALL Orthopedics + surgeon will provide you with a specific timeline based on your individual circumstances.
At a Glance
Ajay C. Lall, MD, MS, FAAOS
- Board Certified – Orthopedic Surgery
- Triple Fellowship Trained
- Performs over 750 Surgeries Per Year
- Learn more
