Hip replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a common procedure performed to alleviate pain and improve mobility in individuals with hip joint dysfunction. After the surgery, it is crucial to engage in physical therapy and exercise in order to regain strength and range of motion. The following exercises are commonly prescribed to individuals who have undergone hip replacement surgery and should be done under the guidance of a physical therapist.
- Straight leg raises: This exercise is used to strengthen the muscles in the front of the thigh (quadriceps) and improve hip flexion. Start by lying on your back with a pillow under your operated knee. Slowly raise your leg up as high as you can without pain and then lower it back down. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times on each leg.
- Heel slides: This exercise is used to improve hip extension and strengthen the muscles in the back of the thigh (hamstrings). Start by lying on your back with a pillow under your operated knee. Slowly slide your heel towards your buttocks, then straighten your leg back out. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times on each leg.
- Clamshells: This exercise is used to strengthen the muscles on the outside of the hip (gluteus medius) and improve hip abduction. Start by lying on your side with your legs bent at a 90-degree angle and your feet together. Slowly raise your top knee as high as you can without pain and then lower it back down. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times on each leg.
- Bridging: This exercise is used to strengthen the muscles in the buttocks (gluteus maximus) and improve hip extension. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Slowly raise your buttocks off the ground, squeezing your glutes as you do so. Hold for a few seconds and then lower your buttocks back down. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times.
- Step-ups: This exercise is used to improve balance and coordination as well as strengthen the muscles in the thigh and buttocks. Start by standing in front of a step or bench. Place your operated foot on the step and use your other foot to push yourself up. Step down with your operated foot first. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times on each leg.
It is important to note that these exercises should only be done under the guidance of a physical therapist and with the approval of the surgeon. It is also important to start with a low number of repetitions and gradually increase as the individual progresses and gains strength.
When meeting with a physical therapist for the first time following hip replacement surgery, it is important to discuss your specific needs and goals for recovery. A conversation guide for this meeting might include the following points:
- Medical history: Provide your physical therapist with a detailed medical history, including any prior surgeries or medical conditions that may affect your recovery. Also, let your therapist know about any medications you are taking.
- Symptoms: Describe any pain or discomfort you are experiencing and the level of pain you experience. It will help the therapist to understand what you are feeling and how to work with you.
- Goals: Share your goals for recovery with your physical therapist. This may include returning to work, being able to walk without a cane, or being able to participate in leisure activities.
- Current functionality: Describe your current level of functionality. This may include your ability to climb stairs, get in and out of a car, or walk a certain distance.
- Home exercise program: Discuss any exercises that you have been doing at home, and ask your therapist to evaluate them to ensure they are appropriate and safe for you.
- Timeline: Ask your therapist about a timeline for recovery and what you can expect in the short and long term.
- Home environment: Describe your living situation, including any stairs or other obstacles in your home that may affect your recovery.
- Follow-up: Ask about the frequency of follow-up visits and what you should expect from your physical therapy program.
By having a clear and open conversation with your physical therapist, you can ensure that your recovery program is tailored to your specific needs and goals, and that you are on the right track to regaining your strength and mobility.
References:
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2019). Physical Therapy After Hip Replacement. https://www.aaos.org/patient-care/treatment/physical-therapy/after-hip-replacement
- NHS. (2021). Hip replacement exercises. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hip-replacement-surgery/recovery/
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Hip replacement surgery: What to expect. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hip-replacement-surgery/about/pac-20385270