What Causes Pain And Swelling In The Legs After A Hip Replacement Surgery?

Posted on Wed, 30 Aug 2017

Question: Had total hip replacement 7 weeks ago. The wound is still uncomfortable and my leg is still a bit swollen (behind the knee and around ankle). Saw my surgeon a week ago..thrilled with progress. However i still cannot bear to lie on operated side. Even lying on my good side still causes pain on my operated side! Advice please? Many thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Both the problem are within normal limits.

Detailed Answer:
Hi I am Dr Gopal Goel Orthopedic Surgeon.
1. After Total hip replacement some amount of swelling in normal in ankle and knee due to edema of soft tissues. This is due to surgical damage to minor blood vessels and loss of muscle pumping. When you start walking and exercise your limb ,then the swelling will go away.
2. Wound of Total hip replacement is large and very deep . It takes long time to heal-total healing may take 12 weeks. So please wait. If your doctor is happy then the progress is as expected. Lying on good side will put operation side in strain, so pain is present. Anyway all my patients asked to lie straight to avoid strain on the operated side.
Thanx for the question. Please feel free to ask any other question.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Gopal (56 minutes later)

Many thanks. I just needed to know im on track, tho im almost 71. Im driving but i need to put seat back, get into car and bring seat foreard. Thanks again

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
you will be able to drive again.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
In my opinion you will be able to drive again.
Thanx

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj