Introduction
Getting a hip replacement is a big step toward a more comfortable, active life. One of the first questions many people have is, “How soon after hip replacement can I drive?” This is an important concern—regaining the ability to drive means regaining independence. But with recovery, it’s important to put safety first and follow your doctor’s guidance. Understanding your recovery timeline, and listening to your healthcare team, will help you return to driving safely and confidently.
What Is Hip Replacement and What Does Recovery Look Like?
Hip replacement surgery , also called total hip arthroplasty , replaces a damaged hip joint with an artificial one, often to relieve severe arthritis or injury. Recovery happens in stages: first, there’s a hospital stay with gentle rehabilitation. Over the next several weeks, physiotherapy helps you gradually regain strength and mobility. Everyday activities like walking and climbing stairs return bit by bit, and eventually, you’ll be ready for more complex tasks—including driving.
When Is It Safe to Start Driving Again?
Most people can expect to return to driving between four and eight weeks after hip replacement surgery , but this can vary depending on your personal situation. If your right hip was replaced, you might need to wait longer, since you use your right leg to operate the car pedals. You should only drive when you can move your leg comfortably and have regained enough strength and control for safe operation of your vehicle. Another key point: don’t drive if you’re still taking strong pain medications (like opioids), since these can slow your reaction time. Your surgeon or physiotherapist will look for signs that you’re ready—such as being able to press down firmly and quickly on the brake pedal without pain.
Safety First: Things to Consider Before You Drive
Before you return behind the wheel, make sure you feel comfortable sitting in the car and that you can react quickly if needed. To start, try a short, low-stress drive in a quiet area, just to see how it feels. It’s also important to consider your insurance and local driving regulations: driving too early after surgery could impact your insurance coverage if an accident should occur. Always check with your healthcare team to make sure you’re cleared to drive, and follow any advice given by your doctor or physiotherapist.
Everyone’s Recovery Is Different
There’s no universal timeline for getting back to driving after a hip replacement . Your continued recovery will depend on factors like your age, overall health, type of surgery, and how diligently you follow your rehabilitation plan . Some people recover quickly, while others need extra time. Medical advances are helping people recover faster, but what matters most is listening to your body and your medical team.
Wrapping Up
Most people can expect to start driving again somewhere between four and eight weeks after hip replacement surgery —but only when they feel physically ready and have their doctor’s approval. Be patient with your recovery and put safety first. By working closely with your healthcare team, you’ll be back on the road, enjoying your independence, when the time is right for you.
References
Batra, A., Gogos, S., & Nizam, I. (2018). When do patients drive after minimally invasive anterior hip replacements? A single surgeon experience of 212 hip arthroplasties. SICOT-J, 4, 51. https://doi.org/10.1051/sicotj/2018045
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people return to driving between four and eight weeks after hip replacement. At MSK Doctors, your recovery plan will be individually assessed by Prof Lee’s team, so you will know when it is safe to drive again for your unique situation.
Prof Lee and MSK Doctors are renowned for their advanced expertise in hip replacement and rehabilitation. Their patient-centred approach and support ensure you receive industry-leading treatment, personal attention, and high standards of post-surgical care tailored to your needs.
Yes, Prof Lee’s extensive experience in joint replacements ensures all patients receive detailed guidance and monitoring during their recovery. The MSK Doctors team will work with you closely to help you return to important everyday activities, including driving, when it’s safe.
Absolutely. At MSK Doctors, your recovery after hip replacement is tailored to your health, surgery method and lifestyle needs. Prof Lee and his team assess your progress individually to ensure your safety and comfort as you gradually resume activities like driving.
MSK Doctors are experienced in answering patients’ questions and offering reassurance throughout recovery. Prof Lee’s team provides clear advice, ongoing monitoring, and support to guide your safe return to driving, prioritising your well-being and confidence at every stage.