One of the first questions my patients ask after a hip replacement is, "When can I walk again?" It’s an understandable concern—after all, getting back on your feet is one of the key milestones in feeling like yourself again. But the truth is, recovery times vary from person to person. Let me give you an idea of what to expect, based on my experience.
Wondering how long it will take to walk after a hip replacement?
The First Few Days: Getting Back on Your Feet
Most people are pleasantly surprised when they find out they can usually start walking the day after surgery. You’ll need crutches or a walker at first, but taking those initial steps—no matter how small—plays an important role in your recovery. It helps get your muscles moving and reduces the risk of complications like blood clots. Even though it might feel daunting, early movement is a big part of your healing process.
Weeks 1–6: Big Progress
By the time you reach six weeks post-surgery, most patients have made significant progress. Many are walking longer distances and feeling far more comfortable than they did before their operation. In fact, a lot of my patients are amazed at how much their pain has improved. By this stage, some people are even ready to go back to work, depending on the kind of job they do.
Months 2–6: Continuing to Improve
The good news is that your recovery doesn’t stop at six weeks. You’ll keep getting stronger and walking more confidently over the next few months. By four to six months after surgery, many patients feel like they’re back to walking normally—sometimes better than they have in years. Most people can walk without any aids and feel more stable on their feet as they regain their strength and balance.
Follow-Up Care and Long-Term Results
At around the six-week mark, I bring all my patients back for a follow-up visit. It’s a chance to check how the hip is healing and make sure everything’s on track. If you’re younger, especially under 60, we’ll likely keep you under review for several years to monitor the long-term health of your new hip. But for most people over 60, we expect the hip to last the rest of your life. After that initial follow-up, you’ll usually be discharged, with the hope that your new hip will continue to serve you well.
Remember, everyone’s recovery journey is unique. Some people are back to walking without crutches or walkers within weeks, while others might take a little longer to feel fully steady. What matters most is that you keep making progress, stay patient, and don’t push yourself too hard too soon. By the time you reach that four to six-month mark, most patients are thrilled with how far they’ve come, walking comfortably and enjoying life again.
Just trust the process—your body is healing, and before long, you'll be back to doing the things you love.
Bournemouth, Poole and Dorchester, Dorset