Hi Wiggle! You are my mirror hip surgery buddy. I had RTHR on same day as you. So glad you found this place too. Sorry you are having some issues. And thank GOODNESS you got the gel packs. Be sure you have a light cloth on them if you didn't get the kind with the cloth inserts. I got 2 of the large ones with straps to go around your waist and hip - only about $15 each. Perfect.
I live in the northern tundra of Minnesota, so icing anything is not fun right now. But very necessary. And I hope you found the wonderful article from this forum on the proper way to elevate your leg - I did not even know that at first - it's how I found this place. The tiered stacking of 3 pillows is magical.
As they have so wisely said in this forum, rest, and let your body heal. It actually knows how what to do. You can knock out ankle pumps any time during the day without hurting anything. But otherwise, rest and take your time.
I received a once per day anti-inflammatory med (Meloxicam) that has been amazing. I tried early on to substitute "occasional" ibuprofen for it. Good grief, my leg swelled up so bad I was scared to pieces. This is only being taken for first 2 weeks. Then I think it will be on to ibuprofen. But I definitely see the need for an anti-inflammatory.
My best advice from these wonderful wise people: take it easy, take it gentle, rest, ice, elevate, take occasional walks - we don't have to be doing any big dance or chores right now. Heal. Snuggle into pillows around your body to try for some sleep. You can hold your legs however you want basically if it doesn't hurt. It's amazing that our hip/leg knows when it's not right. If it hurts, don't do it. If it feels comfortable, all good.
Hoping for some gentle peace for you and saying some prayers for your healing my forum friend.