Maximizing Results: The Importance of Physical Therapy and Hip Replacement Exercises

Hip pain can be debilitating and reduce your quality of life, but it does not have to be that way. The Hip & Knee orthopedic experts at EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region are dedicated to finding the best, minimally invasive treatments for addressing pain and mobility issues. This includes performing standard hip replacement protocols like physical therapy and hip replacement exercises.

Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery: The Crucial Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is essential after hip replacement surgery to help minimize pain and discomfort, increase strength and range of motion, and improve overall functionality.

The primary goal of physical therapy after hip replacement surgery is to aid in the patient’s recovery process and improve their quality of life. Physical therapists will work with patients to improve their range of motion by encouraging gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.

Physical therapy after hip replacement surgery may also involve using mobility aids such as crutches, walkers, or canes. These assistive devices can help patients move around safely and effectively during the early stages of recovery.

Post-Op Hip Replacement Exercises

After hip replacement surgery, proper hip rehab exercises are essential to aid recovery and improve mobility and strength. Post-op hip replacement exercises focus on rebuilding muscle strength, increasing flexibility, and restoring range of motion. A few exercises for hip replacement include:

1. Gluteal Squeezes: Lie on your back with knees bent, slowly squeeze your buttock muscles together and hold for a few seconds.
2. Ankle Pumps: Lie on your back with your feet together and flex and point your toes toward and away from you.
3. Straight Leg Raises: Lie on your back, lift your straight leg a few inches off the ground, and slowly bring it back down.
4. Heel Slides: Lie on your back, slide one heel toward your buttocks, then slide it back down to its original position.
5. Knee Extensions: Sit down and straighten the leg out in front of you before slowly bending it back to a 90-degree angle.

These exercises should be done with the guidance of a medical professional and can be done with or without equipment.

Answering Frequently Asked Questions About Hip Surgery Recovery

If you are considering hip replacement surgery, you may have questions about the procedure and recovery. Here are some helpful tips.

How Long After Hip Replacement Can I Tie My Shoes?

Questions like “When can I bend down after hip replacement?” and “How long after hip replacement can I tie my shoes?” are common. Physical therapy will instruct patients on how to safely move around after surgery, based on their unique anatomy and other surgical factors.

Moving too much or too soon can actually result in more muscle pain or potentially a dislocation, which is rare. Gradually increasing your activities as your body gets stronger will help avoid potential complications a smooth out the recovery process..

When Can I Walk Around and Exercise After Hip Surgery?

Walking around and exercising are two of the most important aspects of hip replacement recovery, restoring blood flow, strength, and mobility. As a result, you will start physical therapy as soon as possible after surgery.

However, this must be done carefully, and under the direction of a trained medical professional. Overall, patients typically return to many normal activities very quickly after the procedure.