When to go back to work

At another hip replacement forum, where I read and post, they suggest 12 weeks with a phased return to work. Some people go back earlier, others later. A lot depends on how well you are doing in recovery and how strenuous your job is. It takes a number of months for initial healing and up to a year for full healing.

Sounds like you have been an exemplary employee over all of those years. If you don't feel ready, and you are able to take more time off, then why not take it! It can't hurt you, and can only help, by allowing you to heal more thoroughly.

I went back after 12 weeks. Work in a hospital lab, the one where I had the op, and have a 30 mile commute.

Great news! Go back when you feel ready as no one else knows when that is or your situation and your circumstances.

Good luck

Richard

Take advantage of getting fully ready for work, both physically and mentally. I went back to work before I was completely ready and never worked again. Don't feel guilty, you are working on your recovery.

Hi

Glad all OK and your feeling great.

I had 10 weeks off after operation and went back on reduced hours. I still got tired but I suppose it's how you feel and what you agree with your GP . Don't rush you have had a major operation. .

Good luck and pace yourself.

Julie 🖒

Hi, if you're not eager to get back, i should give it another month and see how you feel. I was off for 3 months, started back in Jan and have only just started not feeling tired out in the evenings. My job is mainly in an office so it's not exactly strenuous. ?

Glad you are doing well. I think only you can decide when the time is right. My surgeon allowed 3 months out of work, but because I feel pretty much back to normal, I am returning to work on Monday which will be 2 months from my surgery. I was very fortunate and bounced back quickly and have no pain at all now. I do have a desk job though and will definitely need to get up and move around some during the day. Like you I have been at the same job a long time, 32 years. I'm sure they will be fine with it. If you don't feel up to it though, better to wait. Good luck whatever you decide😁

Hi glad you are doing well. I am only just going back to work full time after 12 weeks and have had a phased return . I realised that whilst I was feeling ok around home I was not ready for full time work with all the demands including driving . I realised I needed to ensure my health would not be compromised and wanted o feel stronger. I ts such a major op and you need to look after yourself. So see Gp and id advise another sick note . Good luck

I went back to work after 14 weeks . I was sacked because the Governor decided that I couldn't fully fulfill the duties of a prison officer. I wish I had never had the operation, I would still have a job, dignity, and not be terrified of losing my home. I don't know where to turn. My advice would be to go back to work as soon as possible, even if you don't feel ready for it. Just lie to them and do say you're fine.

Hi, I went back to work after 12 weeks. At 6 weeks I was doing what you are doing now and feeling great. However even though I waited until 12 weeks, I still found it more tiring than I could imagine and some days thought I had gone back too soon. 

It also depends what you do. I only work 3 days a week, with lots of driving. Walking from Car Park to Office and back again with Laptop. Visiting people, going up and down their stairs, sitting on their very low furniture, lots of bending with measuring things. Then time at desk in office. 

It is now 9 months since THR and I can still feel I had it done. Mostly when sitting/driving. The area is still tender, however I can do everything and regularly walk up to 6 miles and am thinking about Skiing next winter!  

Short answer is..... don't rush back, ask GP for another 6 weeks. Use the time to regain your fitness and give yourself rest days too. 

I have never had a day off sick before, even when struggling with painful OA hip so I did not feel an ounce of guilt. You shouldn't either. This is still precious recovery time. 

Take care of yourself. 😀

Is there an opportunity to phase your return ? Maybe start with half days. I know that at 3 weeks post op I am experiencing sudden drops in energy levels and would be worried if I had to return full time in another three weeks.

It is all about how YOU feel no one else knows. What is right for one is wrong for another as we are all different.

Good luck

Cheers Richard