Getting back to normal activities, work and sports after hip arthroscopy surgery often requires transportation. Hip arthroscopy patients often ask when they can get behind the wheel again.
Driving time and recovery can vary for each person. These guidelines can help determine the timeline for getting back on the road after hip arthroscopy:
- Patients do not drive until after their first postoperative visit, 7-10 days after surgery
- Surgical outcomes such as pain, swelling, and stiffness can delay your ability to drive
- Driving is not allowed until the patient no longer takes narcotic pain medication
- The patient must be able to move their foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal safely and quickly
- For automatic transmissions vehicles, the right side arthroscopy may be possible when the patient is off crutches, four to six weeks after surgery; surgery on the left side, may be possible when the patient is off narcotics and crutches
Driving time and recovery varies for each individual. Your orthopedic provider will determine when driving is right for you, based on your unique conditions and outcomes. Property recovery and rehabilitation after hip arthroscopy surgery is essential for maintaining an active lifestyle and a return to play after hip surgery.
AUTHOR:Srino Bharam MD, MBA is a board-certified, fellowship-trained sports medicine orthopedic surgeon and professor of orthopedic surgery specializing in the treatment of athletic injuries of the hip and groin. Dr. Bharam has over 20 years of experience in treating injuries and conditions of the hip with the goal of restoring athletes and patients to an active lifestyle.
