The goal of physical therapy is to reduce swelling, improve circulation, relieve pain, and improve your mobility. Regaining your previous levels of strength, flexibility, and balance post-hip replacement will take time and physical therapy. 

Here’s how you can expect your physical therapy to progress after your hip replacement procedure.

When Does Hip Replacement Physical Therapy Start?

Ideally, physical therapy should begin before your hip replacement procedure. Performing a few basic exercises will help build up strength in your surrounding muscles and improve your range of motion, even before surgery. Dr. Cafferky and his team at The Steadman Clinic may recommend the following exercises:

• Quad Sets

• Gluteal Sets

• Heel Slides

• Bridges

• Single leg balance

Riding a bike, aquatic therapy, and walking are all excellent ways to build your strength and endurance before your total hip arthroplasty. Dr. Cafferky’s team will also show you the mobility devices you’ll be using after your surgery and ensure you are able to use these correctly.

On the day of your surgery, you will be expected to begin walking the moment you wake up, with the aid of your mobility device. A physical therapist will come to your room and assist you in getting out of bed. They will make sure you can complete the following activities:

• Walking

• Sit to stand

• Use stairs

Once you demonstrate you can do this safely, you will be allowed to leave the hospital once you are medically cleared by your doctor. 

Post Operative Exercises for a Hip Replacement

Your first physical therapy appointment should be scheduled within one to three days following your surgical date. Dr. Cafferky and his team recommend you have this scheduled prior to the date of surgery. Typically, you will go to physical therapy two to three times per week for the first four weeks. Physical therapy usually decreases to one to two times per week for the next month. 

At physical therapy, your therapist will:

• Measure your range of motion

• Remove any extra bandaging that covers the waterproof bandage on your knee

• Work on gait training

• Start walking you through light exercises

Physical therapy can be painful at first. Once the pain and swelling have decreased, your physical therapy will start guiding you through more intensive exercises, such as:

• Quad sets

• Gluteal sets

• Ankle pumps

• Assisted heel slides

• Calf Stretch

At home, make sure you are doing your exercises every day, multiple times per day. Staying active and putting in the work early will improve your outcomes, helping achieve your goals sooner. 

The full duration and frequency of physical therapy will depend on your personal goals and how quickly your range of motion comes back. Generally, you will go to physical therapy for two to three months after your hip replacement surgery. 

Considering a Hip Replacement? Contact Team Cafferky Today!

If you are considering a hip replacement, look no further than Dr. Cafferky and his team at The Steadman Clinic. As an expert in Adult Reconstruction, Dr. Cafferky is the top-rated joint replacement physician in Eagle and Summit County. 

Request a consultation today by calling (970) 476-1100 or schedule your appointment online. Let’s get you back to doing the activities you love, pain-free!