Hip Arthroplasty Exercises

Hip Arthroplasty Exercises
Photo Credit hip xray image by JASON WINTER from Fotolia.com

Hip arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that replaces your natural hip joint with an artificial prosthesis, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Doing hip arthroplasty exercises will guide you toward a full recovery. Exercises need to be done consistently to help you return to everyday functioning levels. Check with your medical care provider prior to starting any exercise program.

Ankle Exercises

Ankle pumps will help your leg blood circulation. Lie on a flat surface, such as your bed, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Slowly push the toes of your surgical-side leg away from you. This movement will be similar to pushing down on your car's gas pedal. Hold this position for two seconds. Return to the original position. Pull your toes toward you as you move your ankle. Hold this position for two seconds. Return to your original position. Repeat this exercise 10 times. Do ankle pumps 20 times per hour for the first day after surgery, states the physical therapy site at thephysiotherapy.co.uk. Do an ankle rotation. While laying on your back with your leg extended, move your affected-side ankle toward your other foot. Hold this position for two seconds. Slowly return to the original position. Move and rotate your ankle away from your other foot. Hold this position for two seconds. Return to your original position. Repeat this exercise five times.

Straight Leg Raises

Do some straight leg raises as part of your hip arthroplasty exercises. Lie on your back on either your bed or sofa. Your legs will be straight. Tighten your thigh muscle, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Slowly lift your surgical leg several inches off your bed. Hold this position for five seconds. Slowly lower your leg to the original position. Stop tightening your muscle. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise five times.

Walking

Start walking as part of your hip exercises. Walking helps your hip muscles regain mobility and strength, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Start by standing comfortably. Distribute your body weight evenly on your walking aid, either your crutches or a walker. Move your walking aid forward a short distance. Slowly move your body forward as you lift your operated leg. Place your heel onto the floor first. As you do this, your knee and ankle will bend. Put your entire foot onto the floor. Put as much weight as possible onto your surgical leg. When completing your step, allow your toes to lift off the floor. Move your walking aid again and repeat the movement. Remember to do the walking motion of touching your heel first, flattening your foot and lifting your toes off the floor. Walk as smoothly as you can for two minutes. Relax for 10 seconds. Return to your bed or sofa. As you increase your strength and endurance, increase your walking duration.

References

Article reviewed by David Penick Last updated on: May 22, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments