Physical Therapy Protocol After a Hip Replacement

What physical therapy is done after a hip replacement?

With the helping hand of your Release Physical Therapist, you can expedite recovery after a hip replacement. We all have our own journeys, goals, and needs so physical therapy treatments or services can vary. Taking into consideration your personal evaluation (needs, fitness level, conditions, and goals), your Release Physical Therapist can create a personalized physical therapy plan that adapts to your progress. Treatments that promote mobility and help you adapt to using your new joint are usually an integral part of the physical therapy plan. Through a combination of hands-on treatments and traditional and non-traditional techniques, we deliver the best comprehensive care for patients. Meet our team of professional Physical Therapists and book an appointment today to start experiencing the difference.

Is physical therapy required after hip replacement surgery?

At Release Physical Therapy we specialize in physical therapy, period. This can include everything from pre/post-surgical therapy to wellness and prevention. While it might be a hip replacement surgery that opens the door to the wonders of physical therapy, you can start physical therapy much sooner, too. Physical therapy is designed to help individuals recover, improve, or maintain physical abilities and functions through various techniques. Every individual’s body is unique yet similar, fostering the importance of personalized physical therapy. Work side-by-side with your Release Physical Therapist as you experience the benefits of physical therapy firsthand.

What are the benefits of doing hip replacement physical therapy?

Most of us measure the benefits of physical therapy in terms of what we notice or the things that impact our day-to-day life. Following a hip replacement you may experience things you never have before, fueling you to find normalcy once again. Physical therapy can be the key to unlocking your freedom again.

Physical therapy can reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, decrease pain, promote mobility, restore hip joint mobility and strength, and much more. Simply put, physical therapy can help you adjust to life after a hip replacement while finding comfort and confidence. Put in the work to be strong for the ones you love, happy with the body you are in, and humbled by real progress you’ve made. Your Release Physical Therapist will offer unwavering support every step of the way to help you reach your goals.

What are some of the best exercises for someone recovering from a hip replacement?

Recommendations can vary depending on your stage of recovery, conditions, fitness level, and goals. Overall, though, hip replacement involves learning how to use your new joint. While some treatments are done side-by-side with your physical therapist, they may recommend you practice exercises on your own, too. Some of the initial exercises that are commonly recommended after hip replacement are ankle rotation, straight leg raises, standing hip abduction, standing knee raises, bed-supported knee bends, and so forth.

How long after hip replacement do you start physical therapy?

Physical therapy can be started as soon as you are ready, which can even mean before your hip replacement surgery. Maintaining a physically fit and healthy body is essential to our well-being. Physical therapy can be used as a catalyst to expedite recovery after hip replacement surgery or as a tool to promote a stronger, healthier version of you.

How long do you need physical therapy after a hip replacement?

Physical therapy is extremely beneficial to your overall well-being. Post-op it can ease stiffness and swelling and help you get back to living your life to the fullest, sooner. The time it takes to reach goals can vary, as we all have different goals and conditions. Your Release Physical Therapist can devise a personalized physical therapy plan to help you envision the road ahead. Some choose to stick with physical therapy as it has endless benefits to offer. Feeling your best is priceless as it can free your mind and body. Building a relationship with a physical therapist allows you the space to share how you feel and work with someone who knows you and your body. Together, we can dedicate time that is all about you to reach your goals and live the life you envision.

How often should someone do physical therapy for hip replacement?

For most, daily physical therapy treatment is recommended following a hip replacement. From managing pain to adjusting to life with a new joint, there are many elements to recovery that physical therapy can address. Your Release Physical Therapist can assess your situation to determine an appropriate treatment plan that’s sustainable. Brace yourself as the road to recovery requires strength, determination, and an expert physical therapist by your side every step of the way.

How long does it take to walk normally again after a hip replacement?

Most patients who practice daily physical therapy return to usual activities after 10-12 weeks following a hip replacement. After a day or two following surgery, most patients can get out of bed with some assistance. By day 3, most patients can walk to the bathroom or short distances alone and pain should become more manageable. Recovery times can vary, though, as every patient has different conditions and fitness levels. Complete recovery from a hip replacement can take 6-12 months. To maximize the benefits of a hip replacement, patients should receive personalized physical therapy treatment to encompass total body needs.

What activities should be avoided until you’ve completed hip replacement physical therapy?

While you may be excited to get back to life after a hip replacement, tread with caution and professional guidance. Hip replacements are sensitive and recovery takes time. Activities such as riding a bike, driving a car, or anything high-impact should be avoided. Actions in and out of physical therapy can influence your recovery progress. Lean on your Release Physical Therapist to understand what’s appropriate depending on your stage of recovery.