Returning to Work After a Hip or Knee Replacement: What to Expect
For patients who are still working, one of the biggest questions before surgery is how long they will be away from their job. It is often the reason people choose to have their treatment privately, so they can plan the timing around work. There is no single answer because it depends on the operation and, just as much, on what your work involves. Here is a realistic guide.
It depends on the job, not just the joint
The main factor is how physical your work is. Someone with a desk-based job can usually return far sooner than someone whose work involves standing all day, lifting, or climbing. The type of surgery matters too, but the nature of the job is usually the bigger factor in the timing.
A realistic guide for different types of work
For largely sedentary, desk-based work, many patients return within a few weeks, sometimes on reduced hours to begin with. For work that is on your feet but not heavy, a longer period is usual. For heavy manual work, involving lifting, ladders or long periods of standing, patients often need around ten to twelve weeks and sometimes longer. These are general guides. Your recovery, your particular job and your surgeon's advice all shape the actual timing.
Do not forget the commute
An easily overlooked point is that returning to work often means being able to get there. If your job requires you to drive, you need to be safe and legal to drive first, which is a separate milestone in its own right. If you rely on public transport, consider how much standing and walking is involved.
A phased return often works best
Many patients find that a phased return, starting with shorter days or lighter duties and building up, works better than going straight back to full duties. If your employer offers occupational health support, it is worth using. Planning the return with your recovery in mind, rather than against it, gives the best result.
Planning your timing
Mr Kosuge will give you advice tailored to your operation and your type of work, which is particularly useful if you are planning surgery around your working life. To arrange a consultation or follow-up at The Rivers Hospital, High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0HH:
Telephone: 01279 602675