Derek L. Hill, D.O.

Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon and Specialist

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586-751-3480
11446 E. 13 Mile Road • Suite C • Warren, Michigan 48093
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Knee & Hip Surgery Recovery Tips

Posted on 07.29.15 | 2 Comments

rTz1c_PAxrke-f72TxCOsvcovL_eJmgUAqKeRcVHCcoKnee and hip surgery are major operations since they involve the largest joints in the body.  Knee and hip surgery recovery tips are extremely important in the long term health of your knee. The US National Library of Medicine states that preparation for recovery after operations on these joints should begin before the operation. This can be installing a bathroom or portable commode on the ground floor of the home. The bed, which should have a firm mattress, should also be brought to the ground floor. Stocking up on food and toiletries can be help prepare the home for the recovery process.Read More >

4 Tips For Managing Pain After Total Hip Replacement

Posted on 08.22.13 | 6 Comments

Pixmac000084403770If you’ve had total hip replacement surgery, you already realize that you can’t make it to the Chubby Checker Twist contest next weekend! It may take up to eight weeks to be able to do light impact exercises and get back to most of your normal activities. Until then, managing your pain after hip surgery is your first priority.
Here are four tips to simplify dealing with the pain:

  1. Managing pain with ICE: For the first two weeks ice will be very effective in reducing swelling and therefore pain, after hip replacement. Be sure to cover the icepack with a cloth to avoid freezer burning your skin.
  2. Managing pain with ELEVATION: Slant a stack of three pillows, so that there is little bend in the knee. Pressure under the knee can cause clots. Keeping your feet above the level of your hip will aid the flow of blood.
  3. Managing pain with stretching: Even when you’re in bed, you can rotate your feet at the ankle. Point and flex your toes to loosen up tight calf muscles. Muscle tightness, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain when you first get up are normal. Managing this pain with stretching will maximize your recovery after hip replacement surgery.
  4. Managing pain with exercise: Simple exercise routines and walking will be the only activities you’ll want to do during the first 3-4 weeks. NOTE: don’t overdo it! It’s going to be a gradual process to heal. Overworking your muscles and joints can and will set you back. Don’t exercise to the point of feeling pain. Remember you are managing your pain.

Your doctor can advise you of the best exercises to speed your recovery and manage your pain after total hip replacement surgery. He or she will also explain to you the exercises to avoid, such as running, jogging and lifting heavy items.  By about 8 weeks you should be able to walk, cycle, swim, golf, hike and do gentle aerobics workouts.

Disclaimer: following this advice does not mean that you can make the next Chubby Checker Twist contest…consult your doctor about that one!

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Orthopedic Specialties

  • Total Knee Replacement
  • Partial Knee Replacement
  • Anterior Approach Total Hip Replacement
  • Hip Arthroscopy
  • Multi-Modal Pain Management
  • Rapid Recovery

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