Physical therapy after hip replacement

When arthritis of your hip joint interferes with your activities and affects your quality of life in a negative manner it is suggested that some patients to consider undergoing a hip replacement. Without a hip replacement the arthritic joint will often become worse over time impairing your activity even more. A hip replacement will most likely last approximately 10 years in about 90% of the patients. Having a hip replacement can sometimes take away the pain completely or at least result in pain that can be effectively managed by a minimal amount of medication. During hip replacement surgery an incision is made, the damaged hip socket removed, and an artificial hip socket is put in its place. After the hip replacement surgery the patient will usually stay in the hospital for approximately three days and pain management treatment will continue up to six weeks. Physical therapy after hip replacement surgery will entail a considerable amount of time, either in an at home setting or physical therapy in an outpatient setting. Because each situation is different, the type of surgical procedure you have done will determine when your physical therapy will begin. Some procedures allow that physical therapy take place after you are discharged from the hospital while other surgical techniques require you to wait until several weeks after discharge. The determining factors will also include the patient’s age, mobility capacity and how active they were prior to the hip replacement surgery. During the off days of the two to three weekly physical therapy lessons a patient should continue to practice the exercises on their own to help build up their strength and endurance levels. This will aid in a faster recovery time and an increased volume of mobility. The physical therapy, once begun, will last approximately 4 to 6 weeks duration with a two to three week session done weekly. The physical therapy for hip replacement surgery seeks to accomplish the goals of safety, balance, and knowing the importance of hip precautions with muscle strengthening activities done midway into the sessions. Walking with a walker, crutches or a cane is the normal routine for patients recovering from a hip replacement surgery. There will be pain postoperatively, but this can be effectively managed with medications. Gentle exercising can be done, once completely healed, but excessive weight bearing activity, such as jogging or running are discouraged. Physical therapy after hip replacement surgery is only as effective as the energy and effort put into it. With a positive outlook and hard work your recovery time will be a success. You will soon be on your feet and back to a new and enriched quality of life once again. RESOURCES Duke Orthopedics: Physical Therapy after Hip Surgery American Academy Orthopedic Surgeon: Activities after Hip Replacement AARP: New Hip, Old Walking Skills Dr. Joshua Hickman: Physical Therapy After Your Total Hip Replacement