(HealthDay News) -- A hip replacement needs time to heal after surgery. And while you may be anxious to get back to a normal life, it's important to take it easy for a while.
Your doctor will tell you what you should and shouldn't do after surgery. But the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these general suggestions:
- For at least eight weeks after the surgery, avoid sitting with your legs crossed at the knees.
- Don't lift your knee above the level of your hip.
- When seated, avoid leaning forward -- such as to pick something up off the floor.
- When bending down, keep your feet straight. Avoid pointing them to the inside or outside.
- When in bed, avoid reaching down to grab the sheet or blanket.
- Don't stand with toes pointed toward each other.
- Don't bend at the waist at more than a 90-degree angle.
- Just because a certain movement doesn't hurt doesn't mean it's safe. Pain isn't the only indicator of what you should or shouldn't do.
