Recovering from Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) Surgery
How long is the recovery after FAI surgery and labral repair?
The recovery time after FAI surgery with labral repair can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the surgery, individual patient characteristics, and the level of activity that the patient is striving to return to. In general, most patients can recover full, unrestricted activity in 4-6 months following FAI surgery so long as they complete a good physical therapy program.
Here’s a general overview of what to expect after FAI surgery:
The immediate post-operative period following FAI surgery involves rest and protection of the surgical site. Patients will be non-weight bearing for 2 weeks following hip surgery, typically using crutches for a total of 2-4 weeks. A hip brace will be worn for 2 weeks following surgery. Physical therapy and the use of a continuous passive motion machine will begin on post-operative day 1 to improve range of motion and reduce swelling. Pain and discomfort are common during this phase, but medications are prescribed to help manage it.
During this time, physical therapy intensifies to improve strength, stability, and mobility. Return to light, low-impact activities may be allowed under the guidance of Dr. Chahla and his team, as well as your physical therapist. Patients should still avoid high-impact activities or activities that involve excessive hip stress.
As strength and range of motion improve, patients can start transitioning to more demanding activities. Physical therapy continues to focus on functional movement and sport-specific exercises. Return to full activities, including sports, typically occurs around 6 months following FAI surgery after Dr. Chahla has formally evaluated and cleared the patient to do so.
Complete recovery may take up to a year or more. Patients should continue with maintenance exercises to ensure long-term joint health.
It’s crucial to note that the exact timeline can vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience a faster or slower recovery. The guidance and recommendations of Dr. Chahla, Dr. Chahla’s team, and the physical therapist are instrumental in determining the pace and success of the recovery process. Patients should follow their Dr. Chahla’s instructions diligently, engage in prescribed rehabilitation exercises, and communicate any concerns or setbacks during the recovery journey to achieve the best possible outcome after FAI surgery with labral repair.
At a Glance
Dr. Jorge Chahla
- Triple fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon
- Performs over 700 surgeries per year
- Assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Rush University
- Learn more
