Hip Osteotomy Surgery Recovery and Postoperative FAQs

How long will I need to use a mobility aid after hip osteotomy surgery?

This time varies from patient to patient, but for many people, it’s between 10 and 12 weeks.

As you heal, you will need a mobility aid less and less. If you are using crutches, you may be able to use only one at around 9 weeks into your recovery. Overall, Every patient experiences a different rehabilitation process and your surgeon and physiotherapist will tailor-make a programme for you. Some patients find it beneficial to rent a secondary mobility aid such as a wheelchair to use as they recover. Having an aid other than crutches may make going out much easier and gives the hands and arms a chance to rest if they get sore.

How much time do I need to take off work after a hip osteotomy?

The more physical your job, the more time your surgeon will advise you to take off. It may be ideal to take around eight weeks if you can. However, if you work in an office, you may return to work after three to four weeks if your surgeon agrees that this is appropriate. If your work is physically demanding, you may need to be away from work for up to four months.

Will I need physiotherapy after hip osteotomy?

Anyone having a hip osteotomy will be given a tailor-made physiotherapy program. It is most important you follow this guidance. These exercises and instructions help ensure the lasting effect of your procedure and future health of your hip. Your physiotherapy will begin when you are in hospital then you will be given follow up appointments to attend as well as work to do when you are home. As your recovery progresses, you will require fewer physiotherapy and aftercare appointments. Many patients begin tapering off physiotherapy after about two or three months.

When can I begin exercising normally again after my hip osteotomy?

The recovery process varies from person to person. Generally, the timeline for exercise can be longer for an osteotomy when compared to other procedures such as hip resurfacing or hip arthroscopy. Lower-impact activities like riding a static bike may be resumed after 10 or 12 weeks. For high-impact exercises (such as jogging), you will need to build up to these very gradually to ease your hip joint into the new movement and prevent any injury or damage.

You should be able to fully resume high-impact activities at around five months. However, be aware this may take longer depending on how you heal. While returning to your usual exercise routine is a focus, your surgeon or physiotherapist may advise you to avoid certain activities altogether depending on the condition of your hip. It may take at least 6 months for you to return to some impact sports. The advice for returning to sexual activity varies, so make sure you ask your surgeon about this.