Undergoing hip replacement surgery can be a life-changing experience for many people, offering significant benefits such as pain relief and improved mobility. However, to aid recovery and truly reap the benefits of your new hip, post-operative physiotherapy is crucial. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends starting rehabilitation as soon as possible, as it is proven to be linked with better outcomes. Even before your surgery, physiotherapists can advise you on exercises to perform both before and after your operation to aid recovery.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Strengthening Muscles
The surgery will affect and weaken the muscles around the hip joint. Physiotherapists can provide you with various exercises to help re-strengthen these muscles, which is important for better support and stability of the new hip joint. This will allow you to move more confidently and reduce the risk of falls or further injury to the hip.
Improving Mobility
After surgery, your new hip will be quite stiff. Physiotherapy can help by gradually improving the range of motion of your new hip joint. This will enhance your quality of life by making daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs easier and less painful. Regular physiotherapy sessions will help you regain flexibility and movement of the hip more quickly.
Preventing Complications
After surgery, it is very important to keep your hip moving. Physiotherapy is a great way to achieve this while also strengthening your muscles. Movement reduces the risk of blood clots, infections, and other complications by promoting proper blood circulation and healing.
Lifestyle Advice
Physiotherapists can provide valuable advice on lifestyle changes that can aid your recovery, such as weight loss, dietary modifications, and smoking cessation. These factors will all contribute to the length of your recovery period. Maintaining a healthy weight will reduce stress on your new hip, and proper nutrition will enhance healing.
Recommended Exercises
There are plenty of exercises that can help strengthen and mobilise your hip, such as:
- Step-Ups: Improve leg strength and balance.
- Heel Raises: Strengthen calf muscles and ankle stability, reducing the risk of falls.
- Heel Slides: Help improve the range of motion and mobility of the hip.
- Ankle Circles: Promote good blood circulation to the leg, which is required for healing.
- Single Leg Stands: Strengthen leg muscles and enhance balance, reducing the risk of falls.
A physiotherapist can create an individualised plan tailored to your specific needs and goals, ensuring you maintain proper form and advising you on when to perform these exercises to best aid your recovery. They can also suggest which exercises are better suited to you and add modifications to help you reach your goals more quickly.
Tips for Long-Term Success
Continue Exercising
Maintain a regular exercise routine to keep your new hip joint strong and flexible. Consistency is key to ensuring long-term strength and mobility.
Gradually Increase Activity
Slowly reintroduce higher-level activities and sports. Gradual progression helps prevent injury and allows your body to adapt to increased demands.
Listen to Your Body
Avoid pushing through pain. Pain can be a sign that you need to adjust your activity level. Pay attention to your body’s signals to avoid overexertion and potential complications.
Regular Check-Ups
Keep up with follow-up appointments with your surgeon and physiotherapist. Regular check-ups help monitor your progress and address any issues early on.
Stay Active
Engage in low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking. These exercises help maintain cardiovascular health, enhance muscle strength, and improve joint flexibility without putting excessive strain on your hip.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Pain and Discomfort: Utilise pain management techniques and communicate with your healthcare provider.
- Stiffness: Consistent stretching and flexibility exercises can help reduce stiffness.
- Fear of Re-injury: Gradual progression and guidance from a physiotherapist can help rebuild confidence.
Conclusion
Post-hip replacement physiotherapy is crucial for regaining mobility, strength, and function. By following this guide, working closely with your healthcare team, and staying committed to your physiotherapy programme, you can maximise your recovery and enjoy a higher quality of life. Remember, patience and consistency are key to a successful recovery.
If you feel that physiotherapy can help you after your hip replacement surgery, please contact Home Physio Group at 0330 335 1016 to talk to our team, or alternatively, use the contact form on our website, and we will reach out to you.