Get Well Soon

Helping you to make a speedy recovery after total hip replacement

Returning to work

Returning to work

Although most people who need to have a hip replacement are retired, as increasing numbers of people now work beyond the retirement age, it’s worth mentioning how to balance work and recovery if this applies to you.

Fact: Work can be part of your recovery

Everyone needs time off to recover after an operation - but too much of it can stand in the way of you getting back to normal. In fact, by staying off for too long, people can become isolated and depressed. Getting back to your normal work routine sooner rather than later can actually help you to recover more quickly.

Getting back to work

How quickly you return to work depends on a number of things:

• How you heal
• How you respond to surgery
• The type of job you do

People whose work involves a lot of heavy lifting, or standing up for long periods of time, or lots of walking, for example, will not be able to return to work as quickly as those who have office jobs which are less demanding physically.

How soon can I go back?

Every person recovers differently and has different needs. In most cases it’s usually safe to return to light work or an office-based job within 6 weeks of the operation. If your job involves heavy duties, you may need to be off work for several more weeks. If your employer has an occupational health nurse or doctor they will advise you on this. Alternatively your GP can give you advice.