Physical Therapy and Exercise for the Hip
You may be prescribed a number of physical therapy exercises. Physical therapy is simply an exercise program that gently stretches and strengthens specific muscles and joints. The exercises you may perform are gentle, range of motion (stretching) exercises designed to restore movement and strength to your joint and to promote blood flow for healing.
It is important to stay proactive in your physical therapy since it can have a direct impact on the total outcome of your surgery. Remember to stay diligent and don’t give up. Ask for help if you need it. Friends, family members, and even neighbors can be helpful during your recovery, especially if you ask for their assistance before your surgery.
Physical therapy, which usually lasts between 4 and 6 weeks, is a very important role in the recovery process. A physical therapist may demonstrate a variety of low-impact exercises designed to increase the strength and mobility of your hip joint. However, you should only perform the exercises that are ordered by your surgeon.
The following are examples of exercises that your surgeon may prescribe.
ONLY PERFORM THE EXERCISES PRESCRIBED BY YOUR DOCTOR
Hip Physical Therapy Exercises
1. Single Leg Step-Up
With the foot of involved leg on step, straighten that leg. Return. Use a step or book. Height of step will depend on your strength. Start Low. You may exercise good leg as well. Repeat the recommended number of times.
ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.
2. Hip Flexion
Standing, march in place. If needed, support yourself with a standard object such as a chair. Repeat the recommended number of times.
ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.
3. Heel Slide
The heel slide is performed while lying on your back. Bend at the knee and gently slide the heel of your surgical leg towards your body in one continuous movement, remembering to keep your knee in line with your body. Repeat the recommended number of times.
ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.
4. Short Arc Quads
Lie on back, place a towel under thigh. Lift foot, straightening knee. Do not raise thigh off roll. Repeat the recommended number of times.
ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.
5. Hip Abduction and Adduction Exercise
Lie on back, slide legs out to side. Keep toes pointed up and knees straight. Bring legs back to starting point. Repeat the recommended number of times.
ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.
6. Ball Squeeze
Place ball between knees, slide heels together, squeeze ball for a count of five. Repeat the recommended number of times.
ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.
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