Hip and knee replacement fears debunked: New research highlights short hospital stays and quick recovery times

One in two people who have undergone a hip or knee replacement were discharged from hospital within 48 hours, with 92% of all people surveyed spending less than five days in hospital overall, according to new research.¹ 55% of respondents were back to normal activities such as returning to work, exercise and undertaking household tasks within one month, with 78% reaching this milestone within two months.¹  The findings challenge traditional perceptions of lengthy recovery periods from joint replacement surgery.

This research, carried out by Blackrock Health, reveals a significant disconnect between pre-operative concerns for hip and knee replacement surgery.  One third of people who were considering surgery were worried about recovering from joint replacement surgery and putting off the procedure with a significant negative impact on their quality of life.^[ii] When asked what advice they would give to others, the top advice from 43% was ‘the sooner you do it the better’, with a further 22% recommending ‘go for it, get it done’.¹

The research questioned people’s fears before surgery and whether their fear was justified post-surgery.  Prior to surgery 56% of people cited concerns about the recovery period such as having to change their routine, recovery at home, the wait before returning to normal activity or post-surgical pain.¹ However, in many cases these fears were unfounded with 42% of people  surprised at how quickly they started to see progress and 25% of people felt they were able to maintain their independence with little support.¹  37% of respondents said that their pain was better than expected with 51% reporting it was easy to manage with medication.¹

Commenting on the research, Mr Niall McGoldrick, , Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Blackrock Health said: “Hip and knee replacements are no longer procedures to be feared, but rather opportunities to embrace a future free from pain and limitations. Patients are back on their feet before they are discharged from hospital to ensure it is safe for them to return home, but the fact that 37% of patients are back walking within just one to two days of surgery, with that number jumping to 94% within a week, is a testament to the advances in surgical techniques and post-operative care.

“The ultimate measure of success for any joint replacement procedure is how effectively it restores a patient’s quality of life. The data clearly shows that these procedures are incredibly effective in achieving that goal. With 55% back to normal activities within a month and 78% within two months, it’s clear that hip and knee replacements are giving people back their lives – allowing them to return to work, engage in hobbies, and maintain their independence. This is what truly matters.”

Orlagh Murty, Senior Physiotherapist, at Blackrock Health said: “At Blackrock Health, we often hear from patients who wish they’d had their hip or knee replacement surgery sooner. They put it off, thinking the pain wasn’t bad enough or that recovery would be too difficult. But once they have had the surgery, go through recovery and realise how much better they feel, their biggest regret is waiting. It is wonderful to see them get back to doing the things they love.

My advice to anyone considering this surgery is simple: Have an honest conversation with your GP or consultant about what is holding you back. They can help you address any concerns early on and alleviate any fears.”

To find out more about the orthopaedic services at Blackrock Health and to access videos from the team outlining the recovery from all aspects of your potential joint replacement surgery, visit: https://www.blackrockhealth.com/treatments-procedures/orthopaedic-surgery