Recovery after total hip replacement 

You may be able to go home a week to 10 days after hip surgery. By the time you leave hospital, you should be able to climb stairs, walk and do gentle exercise.

A physiotherapist will explain dos and don'ts following surgery and help you get used to the walking aids and teach you exercises to strengthen your hip.

An occupational therapist may also be available to advise on home adjustments, such as a raised toilet seat, a hand rail in the shower, or devices to help you dress.

As with all major surgery, it takes time to fully recover from hip surgery. Within three months or so, you should feel relatively back to normal.

You will have an outpatient appointment to check your progress after hip replacement surgery, which is usually booked between six and 12 weeks after surgery.

Gentle exercise, such as walking and swimming, is extremely important for your recovery and healing, as it allows your new hip to work.

After the operation:

* You will need around six weeks off work. If your job involves a lot of standing you may need three months
* You should be able to drive your car within six to eight weeks
* You should wait at least six to eight weeks before you start having sex again
* Avoid bending or twisting at the hip, lying on your side, sitting in low chairs, crossing your legs or bending over more than 90 degrees
* Your new hip can activate metal detectors in airports and some buildings