How Long After Hip Surgery Should You Wear Compression Stockings?

If you’ve recently undergone hip replacement surgery, you’ll be embarking on a journey to recovery. If you’re planning hip surgery in the near future, we’re here to help make the process a little less daunting—and let you in on some insider information that could help speed up your healing process.

Along with catching up on your favourite TV shows (and sneaking in some indulgent snacks), it’s vital that you familiarise yourself with the recommended post-operative care procedure and follow the after-hip replacement exercises given to you by a medical professional. 

Typically, you'll be instructed to wear compression socks to ensure your body is given the support it needs to heal itself. Read on to find out what compression stockings are, how they work, and how they can help you on the road to recovery.

 

What are Compression Socks?

 

Compression socks (also referred to as compression stockings) apply gentle pressure to the legs, starting at the ankle. Depending on the length of graduated compression socks you choose, they will extend to your mid-calf or just under the knee, with the pressure gradually loosening as they move up your leg.

This pressure works to boost your circulation, stopping blood from pooling or clotting in your legs. In addition to wearing them for the after hip surgery recovery process, there are myriad uses for compression socks. Some people use them to improve circulation when flying, others use them to help with sports injuries, and people who stand for extended periods of time use them to support their leg muscles and avoid leg fatigue.

Healing from hip surgery is a gradual process, and you may not have your full range of mobility for a few weeks. This is precisely what makes compression socks so essential! They keep your veins doing what they do best: pumping blood back to your heart so you maintain optimal circulation, even when you don’t have full mobility.

 

Why Wear Compression Stocking After Hip Replacement Surgery?

Compression stockings provide several benefits to patients recovering from hip replacement surgery. Here are some of the ways wearing compression socks after surgery could help speed up your recovery:

 

Reduce Pain and Swelling After Hip Replacement

Compression socks reduce swelling in the legs and feet by improving your circulation. This, in turn, reduces edema and pain while aiding mobility.

Prevent DVT

DVT (deep vein thrombosis) happens when there is a blood clot in the leg and, although rare, those who have recently had surgery may be at a higher risk of developing DVT. Wearing graduated compression stockings for DVT has been shown to reduce the risk of developing blood clots by up to 60%.

 

Promote Healing

Your lymphatic system is responsible for a host of vital bodily processes including natural detoxification. Poor lymph circulation can lead to swelling and pain. Wearing compression socks for circulation can stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting circulation and healing.

How Long to Wear Compression Socks After Hip Surgery

After a hip replacement, your doctor will tell you how long to wear compression socks after surgery. Many doctors recommend wearing them for 6 weeks, or up until you have regained full mobility.

If you aren’t sure how long it will take to regain mobility and want some more insight into the recovery process (you can never be too prepared!), here are some of the stages you can expect during your hip surgery recovery time:

The day after surgery: A physical therapist will show you after-hip replacement exercises to do at home. At this point, you may only be able to sit up, but some people may be able to walk for short periods.

1 - 3 days after surgery: Generally, you’ll be able to go home one to three days after surgery. Ensure you have someone that can help you with daily tasks, like grocery shopping and driving.

4 - 10 days after surgery: You’ll want to clean the incision area as directed by your healthcare professional, and continue your  after-hip replacement exercises.

10 - 14 days after surgery: If your stitches are non-dissolvable, you should be able to get them removed during this period. You should notice your pain easing dramatically and your mobility improving!

3 - 6 weeks after surgery: You can resume most normal activities (except for driving), but remember to take it slow and steady.

6+ weeks after surgery: You will be able to resume daily activities, drive, and should be completely pain-free.

It’s possible to stop wearing compression stockings once you no longer need them after hip replacement surgery. However, there are some reasons you might continue to wear them even after you’ve healed:

• Preventing blood clots
• Reducing leg swelling
• Improving circulation
• Promoting healing

Heal From Hip Replacement Surgery in Comfort & Style

Are you ready to boost your post-operative care journey after a hip replacement? Get a Pear of the best compression socks on the market! Our sophisticated and stylish compression socks are machine washable, natural, and hypoallergenic. Because they’re premium quality and created for long-lasting wear, you can wear them throughout your recovery and beyond. 

Visit our online store to find your perfect Pear, or get our 3-pack of knee-high socks for women for ultimate comfort and versatility.

While we do make every effort to produce accurate and up-to-date content, the information in this blog article is provided for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.