Short answer: Most patients walk the day of surgery, return to desk work in 1–2 weeks, and resume sports between weeks 4–8 — if the wound heals well and leg pain resolves.

Day 0–3: First steps

Walking is the best early activity. Keep the dressing dry, use prescribed pain relief, and avoid bending/twisting/lifting (>5 kg). Numbness may linger even as shooting pain improves.

Week 1–2: Daily routine returns

• Light housework; short, frequent walks (5–10 min x 4–6/day).
• Desk work is usually possible by the end of week 2.
• Red flags: fever, drainage, increasing weakness — call your surgeon.

Week 3–4: Build capacity

Physiotherapy focuses on core activation, hip mobility and posture. Progress sitting time and walking distance; start gentle stationary cycling if comfortable.

Week 5–6: Return to sport

Most non-contact sports and gym workouts resume gradually. Heavy lifting or contact sports may wait until 8–12 weeks based on your exam.

Tip: Recovery is individualized. Your surgeon’s protocol and physiotherapist’s progress checks trump generic timelines.