Hip replacement is perhaps one of the most delicate surgeries anyone can undergo in life. However, with an experienced hip replacement surgeon, your operation can be 99.9% successful. After a hip surgery, a patient may need special management because of numerous risks that h or he is exposed to. Post hip replacement physiotherapy is strongly recommended for people in order to minimize the risks of accidents and further damage. This will quicken the healing process and eliminate any chances of dislocation post-surgery.
A physiotherapist will help advise you on what and what not to do a few months after the surgery in order to minimize chances of dislocation. Here are some of the things you should observe:
• Avoid sitting on low chairs
• Sit with the legs apart
• Avoid squatting or bending down to lace up your shoes or pick something
• Avoid crossing your legs
• Avoid lying on the operated side
• Have two pillows between your knees when lying on the opposite side.
Post-Hip Replacement Physiotherapy
Rehabilitation post-hip replacement is expected to begin immediately after you come out of the surgical room. A physiotherapist will help you start doing some bed exercises to enhance your recovery process and help you get back on your feet. As such, he or she will help you have not only safe but early and efficient discharge from the hospital.
The entire post-hip replacement therapy and healing process can take 3-6 months, but this will depend upon many other factors. During this delicate healing process, your physio will help in a number of ways including the following:
• Monitoring your progress on a daily basis
• Advise and give you on the condition of your surgery
• Train you to perform specific exercises to help strengthen your hips and fasten the healing process
• Help minimize the pain
• Help you restore your ability to walk and perform your daily chores
What Patients Should Expect after a New Hip Replacement
Many patients who undergo a hip replacement surgery and an appropriate therapy are able to regain their walking, bending and climbing of the stairs and even kneeling. However, as you continue to heal, you may need to avoid other exercises such as yoga and strenuous gym activities. This is aimed at minimizing chances of dislocation of the hip.
Many young patients are able to do jogging, although it is not recommended, since this kind of activities have an impact on the hip and join areas. When it comes to sexual activity, patients can resume it as soon as they can feel comfortable. Generally, this is not advisable the first six weeks following a hip replacement surgery.
After the surgery, patients may feel numbness or stiffness around the operated hip, but this is normal, especially when you engage in excessive bending. Therefore, patients are advised to see their physiotherapist if this persists for long.
If you or your loved one has undergone a hip replacement, it is important to look for a qualified Hip Replacement Physio expert to help enhance the healing and adjustment following the surgery.
