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In a standard total hip replacement, an artificial ball replaces the head of the thighbone (femur), and an artificial cup replaces the worn socket. A metal stem is inserted into the thighbone to help stabilize the prosthesis.

If you had a partial hip replacement, probably only head of the femur was replaced because of damaged or diseased. In most cases, the acetabulum (cup) is left intact.

New artificial surfaces allow the new prosthetics to move smoothly. As your new hip heals and your post-operative pain subsides, you should find that the pain and stiffness you experienced before the hip replacement surgery have either disappeared or been significantly diminished.

Rehabilitation
Congratulations! Now that your hip replacement surgery is over, you're ready to begin your return to an active lifestyle. Hip rehabilitation can take weeks or months, depending the state of your health before the operation, how quickly the bones of your hip joint heal and how well you follow the rehab regimen created by your doctor and therapists.

Be cautious with your new hip and avoid overly strenuous or prohibited activities. And be patient - your recovery will take some time and effort. But if you conscientiously do your exercises and follow your doctor's instructions, you should again be able to enjoy most of the same activities you did before hip pain made them impossible.

Using a Walker
During your recovery, your hip replacement surgeon will most likely recommend that you use a walker to assist you in moving around. Start slowly by moving the walker a few inches in front of you. Lean on it, letting it support most of your weight, and step into the center of the walker with the injured leg. Taking care not to twist that leg, step once with your other leg. As your rehabilitation progresses, you'll be able to move the walker in time with your steps. Try to take small, even steps.

Using Crutches
Crutches require a considerable amount of upper body strength, so their use is advisable only for certain patients. If your doctor agrees that they're right for you, start by moving the crutches in place and then leaning on your hands - not your armpits. Keeping your injured leg lined up with the crutches, move both leg and crutches forward. Look straight ahead as you "step through" the crutches with your other leg. To turn, take small steps.

Exercises
Your physical therapist will show you several exercises designed to help you strengthen your muscles and increase your range of motion.

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