Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip
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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.
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ONLY PERFORM THE EXERCISES PRESCRIBED BY YOUR DOCTOR
- Single Leg Step-Up
- Hip Flexion
- Heel Slide
- Short Arc Quads
- Hip Abduction and Adduction Exercise
- Ball Squeeze
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1. Single Leg Step-Up
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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.
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2. Hip Flexion
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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.
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3. Heel Slide
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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.
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4. Short Arc
Quads
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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.
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5. Hip Abduction and Adduction
Exercise
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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.
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6. Ball Squeeze
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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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After 3 to 4 weeks, you should be able to perform these
exercises at home without the assistance of a physical therapist. Always
follow your surgeon's instructions regarding physical therapy or exercise.
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All Patient education material has been reviewed by a board of Orthopedic Surgeons to ensure accuracy.
All materials are provided for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from your orthopedic surgeon. Any medical decisions should be made after consulting a qualified physician.
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