My Orthopedic Healthcare Team

With the help of your healthcare team, you’ll start rehab right after surgery. The first step is to control pain and swelling. You’ll also begin to make your new hip stronger by doing exercises in bed. These team members will take part in your care postsurgery:

• Orthopedic surgeon. This specialist does your surgery. They also oversee your treatment, keep track of your progress, and provide follow-up care.

• Physician assistantornurse practitioner. This professional may help your surgeon with surgery and postoperative care. They may help your surgeon take care of you while you're in the hospital.

• Nurses. These healthcare providers keep track of your recovery and help keep you comfortable.

• Physical therapist (PT). This provider designs a movement program that includes walking and hip exercises.

• Occupational therapist (OT).  This provider teaches you life skills, such as dressing and bathing.

• Mental health provider. This provider may help you cope with the emotional and behavioral impacts of your surgery and a return to your fullest potential.

After you leave the hospital, your healthcare providers will give you specific self-care instructions. It's important to follow your discharge plan. This includes knowing when your follow-up appointments are scheduled.

After surgery, see your healthcare providers for follow-up visits as directed. These visits help keep track of how well your hip is healing and your overall health.. To check the joint over time, you may need to have an X-ray every 1 or 2 years.