How long does it take to walk normally after hip surgery?

Hinge Health member’s question: 

“I’ve heard that walking without an assistive device after hip surgery can take time. How long should I expect?” 

Hinge Health physical therapist Paige Nelson’s answer:

Regaining a normal walking pattern after hip surgery typically takes several months, but a lot of factors affect that timeline, such as the type of surgery, your pre-surgery fitness, and how well you follow your rehabilitation plan. 

If you have a total hip replacement, you’ll likely be up and walking around the day of your surgery, or the next day. Other procedures can require a period of non-weight-bearing activity, which can extend your recovery timeline. 

I’m a big proponent of helping people set realistic expectations. It often takes a few more months to be able to walk safely and “normally” — meaning comfortably without support. 

Here’s what I like to make sure my patients know about walking normally after hip surgery:

What are the phases of walking after hip surgery?

Walking may seem simple, but it’s a complex process that involves balance, strength, and coordination. After hip surgery, your body needs to relearn how to distribute your weight evenly during each phase of the walking cycle. 

Even though you’ve been walking your whole life, rehab after surgery is necessary to help prevent you from developing compensations — such as limping or avoiding weight-bearing. This can lead to pain or strain in your lower back, knee, or opposite hip. This can take some time, which is why we have people work toward milestones in their walking recovery: 

• First: Walking with a walker

• Next: Walking with a cane 

• Then: Walking around your home independently 

• Finally: Walking out in the community independently

Which factors influence walking after hip surgery?

Aside from the type of surgery you have, several factors can impact how quickly you regain a normal walking pattern. 

• Pre-surgery strength. The stronger and more mobile you are before surgery, the smoother your recovery is likely to be. Any time you’re not as active as usual — such as after surgery — you will experience some muscle loss. Building muscle beforehand can help minimize that loss and speed recovery. 

• Post-surgery rehab. Rehabilitation after surgery is crucial for rebuilding strength, improving balance, and retraining the muscles and joints needed for walking. 

• Health conditions. Some chronic health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or osteoporosis can affect how quickly you heal after surgery. Your surgeon and physical therapist can help you manage pre-existing conditions to support a smooth recovery.

What are some ways to make walking easier?  

No two recoveries are exactly alike. A good rehabilitation plan is personalized based on your surgery type, age, fitness level, and any underlying health conditions. But I do have a few tips that can help make your recovery smoother:

• Set realistic goals. Celebrate small wins, such as transitioning from a walker to a cane, or walking across your home unassisted. These milestones show you’re making progress.

• Look for your movement sweet spot. Some discomfort is normal, but sharp pain or persistent soreness may indicate you’re pushing too hard. Share any concerns with your physical therapist.

• Stay consistent. Regular physical therapy sessions and home exercises are key to regain strength and mobility.

• Ask questions. Before surgery, ask your surgeon about expected milestones and restrictions. Knowing what to expect helps you feel more prepared and confident during recovery.

My main takeaway 

Everyone’s recovery is unique, so don’t get discouraged if progress feels slow. Walking normally after hip surgery is a process that takes time. And if you're ever unsure or overwhelmed, reach out to your physical therapist — they’re there to help you navigate every step of the way.

This article and its contents are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional services specific to you or your medical condition.

References 

1. Halpern, L. W. (2017). Early Ambulation Is Crucial for Improving Patient Health. American Journal of Nursing, 117(6), 15. doi:10.1097/01.NAJ.0000520240.29643.e2

2. Ackerman, C. (2020). Preoperative Therapy to Improve Outcomes in Total Joint Arthroplasty Patients. Nursing Capstones, 290. Retrieved from https://commons.und.edu/nurs-capstones/290

3. Emma, E. (2017). Improved Outcomes Associated With an Early Mobilization Protocol Among Hip and Knee Replacement Patients. Retrieved from https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1000&context=son_dnp