People with hip problems often have limited mobility and trouble exercising. While hip surgery can help, it sometimes makes it even more difficult to exercise during the immediate recovery period after surgery. Luckily, there are still mild and gentle exercises that can be done for rehabilitation after hip surgery. These exercises speed recovery and strengthen the hip muscles without injuring the hip.
Ankle Pumps
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that gentle strengthening exercises speed blood flow to the hips after hip surgery, which prevents blood clots and increases range of motion. One of the exercises they recommend is ankle pumps. Ankle pumps involve pushing the foot up and down at the ankle, very slowly. This strengthens several parts of the legs and moves blood up toward the hips. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that ankle pumps can be done several times every day and as soon as the surgery is done.
Knee Extensions
Knee extensions are another good exercise after hip surgery. According to the University of Virginia Health System, knee extensions can only be done while sitting up, usually on a chair. They recommend using a firm chair for more comfort. Knee extensions are done by straightening the knee out, holding it straight for five seconds, bending the knee in as far as possible for five seconds, and then relaxing. It is important not to go too fast with this exercise or to extend the knee so far that it becomes uncomfortable. The goal of this exercise is to strengthen the knee, quadriceps and hips without causing injury.
Hip Extensions
Another exercise that is beneficial in the rehabilitation process for people who have had hip surgery are hip extensions. Standing hip extensions can strengthen the hip and bring blood flow to the surgical site, where healing is needed. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that to do a hip extension, a person needs only to lift up the leg on the same side as the repaired hip. The leg should be lifted backward slowly, bending at the hip, not the knee and keeping the back straight. This position can be held for a count of two or three and repeated three to four times a day.
Walking
Walking is another great rehabilitation exercise for those recovering from hip surgery. Walking can actually begin very shortly after surgery, even the day after while still in the hospital, explains the America Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Walking, even when done with a walker, helps the person to regain movement in his hips so that everyday activities will become easier. It is important not to hurry and to walk slowly and smoothly so that the hip doesn't become injured.
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