This is one of the first questions almost every patient asks and it is an important one, because driving is tied up with independence and getting back to work. The honest answer is that there is no single fixed date. It depends on which side was operated on, the type of car, how your recovery is going and, above all, whether you can drive safely. Here is how Mr Kosuge advises patients to think about it.
There is no fixed legal time, but there are clear conditions
In the UK there is no law that states an exact number of weeks before you may drive after joint replacement surgery. What matters is that you are back in full control of the car. You must be able to sit comfortably, operate the pedals without hesitation and perform an emergency stop with full force and no pain. You must also no longer be taking strong pain medication that could affect your reactions. Until all of those are true, you are not ready.
Which side matters and so does the car
Recovery of driving readiness tends to be quicker after surgery on the left leg in an automatic car, because the left leg does less of the work. Surgery on the right leg, or driving a manual, usually takes longer, because the operated leg is doing more. As a general guide many patients are ready somewhere between four and eight weeks, but this is a guide and not a target. Some are ready sooner and some later.
Tell your insurer
It is sensible to inform your car insurer that you have had surgery before you return to driving. Policies vary. Confirming that you are covered avoids any difficulty in the event of a claim. Your insurer may also ask that your surgeon or GP has confirmed you are fit to drive.
A simple test
A practical check, once you feel ready, is to sit in a stationary car and practise moving your foot firmly to the brake as though stopping in an emergency. If you can do this quickly, firmly and without pain while off strong painkillers, you are close. If it makes you hesitate, you are not.
Confirming you are ready
Mr Kosuge will give you personalised advice on returning to driving at your follow-up, based on your operation and your progress. To arrange a consultation or follow-up at The Rivers Hospital, High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0HH:
Telephone: 01279 602675