Hip replacement surgery is a common surgery to replace a damaged or arthritic hip. After surgery, patients tend to experience pain, stiffness, and weakness in the hip. However, with the help of specific exercises, they can increase strength, mobility, and improve your overall recovery.
In this post, we will tell you which are the most beneficial exercises after hip replacement surgery and what actions you should avoid so as not to put the results of the surgery at risk.
After hip replacement, regular exercise can be especially beneficial for regaining joint strength, mobility, and flexibility. However, it is recommended to speak with a physical therapist or other specialist for specific guidelines on which exercises are best suited and when it is safe to start doing them.
It is also important to start with hip arthroplasty exercises gently and slowly, and gradually increase the intensity and duration to ensure optimal recovery.
After a surgical procedure such as arthroplasty, certain precautions must be taken into account to avoid possible complications. Some of these considerations are:
Do not cross your legs.
Do not sit on low chairs or low sofas.
Do not bend the waist more than 90 degrees.
Do not turn the operated leg inward or outward.
Do not bend the operated leg more than 90 degrees.
Avoid high-impact activities and sports that involve sudden movements, such as running or jumping.
Walking is one of the main exercises for hip arthroplasty, as it helps the progressive recovery of mobility. We recommend starting with short, slow walks, and as you get more comfortable, you’ll be able to gradually increase the distance and speed.
Stationary cycling is a good way to strengthen your muscles and increase hip flexibility. Before you start practice, be sure to adjust the seat height to avoid further injury.
Lying supine, lift the affected leg up a few inches off the ground and hold it for a few seconds before slowly lowering it. Repeat this exercise several times a day to strengthen your hip muscles.
Standing, use a chair for balance and lift the foot of the affected leg toward your butt. Hold it in your hand and hold the position for 30 seconds before slowly lowering yourself (repeat several times and switch legs).
Sit on the floor and bring the soles of your feet together, allowing your knees to fall to the sides, use your hands to gently push your knees into the floor. Hold for 30 seconds before slowly releasing.
Lying on your back, bend your knees and place your feet on the floor. Slowly lift the affected leg toward your chest and hold it with both hands. Stay in this position for 30 seconds before slowly lowering your leg (repeat several times alternating each of your legs).
After you’ve undergone hip replacement, it’s essential to have therapeutic support that provides specific recommendations based on the type of surgery and your particular physical condition. In general, it’s recommended to stop any exercise if you experience sudden, sharp pain, excessive swelling, redness, fever, or any other unusual symptoms.
Similarly, it is advisable to let your doctor or physical therapist know if the pain is unusually severe or if it interferes with your ability to perform daily activities, so that they can make changes that will help you perform better with less effort.
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