Just like anything else that can get worn out over time, hips go through a lot of wear and tear year after year. It can cause dull pain that can be bearable or pain that is quite the opposite. When that happens, a doctor will likely recommend a hip replacement. It could be a partial or total hip replacement, but regardless, do you know what follows after the surgery takes place? You guessed it! Physical therapy.
What Does Physical Therapy After a Hip Replacement Involve?
Gone are the days when a doctor prescribes weeks of rest after a big surgery. Because the range of motion improves immediately with a new hip, physical therapy can begin within 24 hours after surgery. However, getting used to a new hip can be tricky, so doctors recommend moving around with caution, using a walker or crutches.
How physical therapy unfolds following a hip replacement can happen in a few different ways.
- In a rehab facility: This usually occurs when the patient needs more assistance with the healing process before going home.
- Through a series of outpatient appointments at the PT facility: These can happen daily or a few times a week to support the healing process.
- At home: This is when the patient is prescribed specific exercises to do independently at home without the assistance of a physical therapist.
Which method works best for each patient is dependent first on how freely and comfortably they’re able to move following surgery. If they need more support, a short stay at a rehab facility will probably be the doctor’s orders. If an in-person stay at a rehab facility isn’t required, the patient will probably have a choice as to whether or not they want to do PT in a PT office setting or if they want to do the work at home on their own. Or perhaps they’ll do a combination of both. That decision will depend on the patient’s discipline level. Some people choose not to go the independent route because having a formal PT appointment brings about a certain level of accountability.
The Cleveland Clinic shares the following about what happens following hip surgery:
“After surgery, your physical therapist will instruct you regarding hip movement precautions and any limitations you may have for range of motion. Keep in mind that your physical therapy and strengthening exercises will help you gain greater mobility and ensure an easier recovery following surgery. It’s highly recommended that you continue therapy treatment for the recommended timeframe prescribed by your physical therapist.
Your physical therapist will tell you that there are several basic rules about positioning that you should be aware of following surgery. The specific precautions will vary based on the surgical approach (window into the hip joint) used during surgery. Precautions may include that you don’t bend forward more than 90 degrees, and do not lift your knee on the surgery side higher than your hip. Also, don’t cross your legs or rotate your leg outward, or twist or pivot your operated hip.”
How Long Should You Do Physical Therapy After a Hip Replacement?
Healing after a hip replacement can be a year-long process or longer for some people. Your strength, healing, pain levels, weight-bearing ability, and range of motion will be assessed regularly. You’ll have check-ins with your doctor regularly to ensure your progress is being tracked and measured effectively.
Physical Therapy For Hip Replacements in Irving, Texas
Do you or a loved one need physical therapy after a full or partial hip replacement? The experienced team of physical therapists at Physical Therapy NOW can help. We’ve supported the healing and recovery process of many hip replacement patients, and we can help you too! Call today to schedule your first appointment.
