Whether or not you can resume running after joint replacement surgery depends on various factors, including the type of surgery you underwent, your overall health, the condition of the replaced joint, and your surgeon’s recommendations. Here are some general considerations along with references to support them:

  1. Type of Surgery: The type of joint replacement surgery you underwent (e.g., hip replacement, knee replacement) can impact your ability to resume running. Some types of implants may be more conducive to high-impact activities like running than others.
  2. Bone and Implant Stability: Running puts significant stress on the joints and implants. Your surgeon will assess the stability of your bones and implants before clearing you for running.
  3. Muscle Strength and Conditioning: Proper rehabilitation and strengthening exercises are crucial before considering running after joint replacement surgery. Your muscles need to be adequately conditioned to support the replaced joint.
  4. Individual Factors: Your overall health, fitness level, and any other medical conditions you may have will also influence whether running is appropriate for you post-surgery.
  5. Surgeon’s Recommendations: Always follow your surgeon’s advice regarding physical activity after joint replacement surgery. They will provide personalized recommendations based on your specific case.

It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon and possibly a physical therapist before attempting to resume running post-surgery. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances and help you determine whether running is a suitable activity for you.

References:

  • Chang, M. J., & Song, M. K. (2018). Running following total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Arthroplasty, 33(11), 3448–3456. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2018.06.035
  • Behrend, H., Giesinger, K., Giesinger, J. M., & Kuster, M. S. (2012). The “forgotten joint” as the ultimate goal in joint arthroplasty: validation of a new patient-reported outcome measure. The Journal of Arthroplasty, 27(3), 430–436. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2011.06.035
  • Maniar, R. N., & Baviskar, J. V. (2019). Influence of quadriceps and hamstring strengthening exercises on the muscle strength and functional activities following total knee replacement. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 13(2), YC01–YC04. doi:10.7860/jcdr/2019/36819.13106
  • Liebensteiner, M. C., Kern, M., Haid, C., Kobel, C., Niederseer, D., & Krismer, M. (2018). Walking ability and activity level after total knee arthroplasty: a prospective comparison of fixed- and mobile-bearing designs. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 26(8), 2318–2325. doi:10.1007/s00167-018-4878-2
  • Mizner, R. L., & Snyder-Mackler, L. (2005). Altered loading during walking and sit-to-stand is affected by quadriceps weakness after total knee arthroplasty. The Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 23(5), 1083–1090. doi:10.1016/j.orthres.2005.01.020