I Need A Hip Replacement: Now What?
Functional hips are a crucial part of a healthy body. Together, both elements empower a high quality of life. If joints become injured after an accident or illness, many patients experience a decrease in mobility and physical freedom. Many physicians suggest that a total hip replacement can lead to relief from pain while increasing joint function. Total hip replacements take 3 months to heal, with complete recovery taking a year. To regain strength and overall range of motion quickly, doctors recommend low-impact exercises focused on building muscle.
Get on up
To strengthen the quadriceps muscles, doctors suggest using the stationary bike or elliptical in the gym. Cardiovascular exercises that strengthen the quads are key to expediting recovery time. Strong and supportive quads create a stable movement for the hip, protecting the joint while developing the muscle.
Heel slide your way to recovery
After the procedure, joints can become stiff and painful to bend. Some physicians suggest heel slides to avoid scar tissue forming around the tender joint. Start by lying on the back with legs stretched long. Carefully slide one heel at a time close to the buttocks, maintaining a deep stretch for 1-2 seconds before sliding the heel down again. Numerous healthcare professionals recommend starting with 2 sets of 10 reps, adding sets as the joint regains motion.
Knees down
Exercises targeting the glutes are vital to ensure the hips and knees have enough support and stability to heal. Knee-push downs help build muscle while improving the knee’s extension abilities. Begin by lying on the floor with a rolled-up towel positioned beneath the ankles. Press the knees toward the floor using the quads, hold for 5 seconds and repeat 20 times.
Hamstrings protect the hip
To increase flexibility, stretches that target the lower body are helpful to improve the overall range of motion in the new hip. Extend one leg out at a time while sitting in a chair to stretch the hamstrings. Bend at the hips until a stretch is felt along the back of the leg. Maintain the stretch for a minimum of 30 seconds, repeating 3 times per side.
How to return to your life, ASAP
According to the latest research, acute hip and knee pain is a leading cause of musculoskeletal disability in the United States. Often, patients can lighten pain levels and regain mobility by pursuing a total robotic hip replacement. Healing the new joint can be arduous, but many experts highlight that exercise is a vital element of regaining function. The key to a seamless recovery process is consistent, low-stress movement, nurturing the muscles into a speedy return to daily life.