Total Hip Joint Replacement - Recuperation

Total Hip Joint Replacement - Recuperation

Article by Angela Haldane

Q. I am recovering from my second hip joint replacement, which is proving to be a more difficult than the previous hip operation on the other side. How can I improve my recuperation period with natural therapies?

A. Follow the instructions from your physiotherapist regarding activity and exercises. It is important to maintain the strength and muscle tone. Then ensure that you get enough rest in between activities. Listen to your body, you will probably need a late morning and afternoon rest. By doing too much can exhaust you, and the pain accumulates so that by the time night arrives, it is difficult to manage the pain. Keep up with the pain management prescribed during the day as the body repairs itself better when pain free.

To augment the healing process, take a vitamin C supplement 2000 mg daily. Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis and connective tissue repair. Zinc and vitamin A promote wound healing. Ask Natural Ange

Studies show that good quality protein in the diet, such as meat, fish, eggs, and legumes served with grains, enhance the wound healing process. Protein is important for muscle repair. When you cook, make double the amount and freeze portions for later use, e.g. soups, casseroles in order to conserve your energy.

Should you find that you energy levels are still not picking up, and you are satisfied that you do not have a wound infection, or low iron levels, I would recommend that you see a registered medical herbalist to prescribe herbal medicine to restore low energy levels, and to augment healing properties – especially for connective tissue. Book an appointment with Natural Ange