Surgeons plan return to driving and work after hip or knee replacement on an individual basis. No fixed week applies to every patient. This article outlines the factors that influence timing. It provides general education only. Your treating surgeon gives the advice that applies to you.
Most patients begin walking with assistance on the day of surgery or the next morning. Hospital stay after a primary replacement commonly lasts two to four days. Progress after discharge depends on pain control, strength, balance and other medical conditions. For more detail on typical recovery stages, see the hip replacement recovery timeline and the knee replacement recovery timeline on www.adamwoodbridge.com.au.
Driving after joint replacement
Surgeons do not advise driving while you take strong opioid medicine, or before you can perform an emergency stop safely. Other factors include:
- Which leg was operated on
- Whether the car is automatic or manual
- Balance and confidence with walking aids
- Advice from the treating surgeon and, if relevant, the insurer
As a result, many patients return to driving several weeks after a primary hip or knee replacement, once these conditions are met. Some take longer. Therefore, do not resume driving until the treating surgeon has confirmed it is appropriate.
Return to work
The timing of return to work depends on the demands of the job:
- Sedentary or desk-based work may be possible earlier, sometimes within a few weeks, if transport and seating are manageable
- Roles that involve prolonged standing, walking, climbing or lifting usually require a longer period
- Heavy manual work may need a graded return or temporary modification of duties
In addition, a medical certificate or return-to-work plan can be provided after review. Workplace injury claims have separate requirements. These are coordinated with the treating team and the relevant insurer.
Higher-demand activity
Return to gym, sport or other higher-demand activity is also individual. For example, low-impact activities such as walking, stationary cycling and swimming are often introduced earlier, once the wound is healed and the surgeon is satisfied with progress. Higher-impact activities are discussed later. Implant longevity and the risk of later revision form part of that discussion.
Assessment in Sydney, Taree and Forster
This article provides general education only. It does not provide personalised medical advice. Outcomes vary between patients. Therefore, a consultation is required to plan return to driving, work and activity after surgery.
Dr Adam Woodbridge assesses hip and knee conditions and performs hip and knee replacement at locations across Sydney (Chatswood, Bella Vista/Norwest and Balmain) and regional New South Wales (Taree and Forster). Further information is available at www.adamwoodbridge.com.au. Appointments can be arranged by calling (02) 8785 5422.