A prosthesis, or artificial hip, is used to replace a diseased hip joint in hip replacement surgery, also called hip arthroplasty. The artificial joint consists of a socket that has a ceramic, plastic or metal liner, and a ball made of plastic or ceramic, according to the doctors at the Mayo Clinic. The new joint is made to provide complete mobility and range of motion. Recovery from hip replacement surgery requires intensive physical therapy to speed up and to ensure proper rehabilitation.
Step 1
Sit up and begin walking with the help of a walker or crutches while you are still in the hospital. This will prevent stiffness and prepare you for further rehab work. You will be able to test your new hip with the assistance of the nurses and doctors who have been treating you. Patients also are encouraged to move around shortly after surgery to prevent blood clots from forming.
Step 2
Push your foot up and down several times with your heel resting on the bed while you are lying down. Move your foot in toward the opposite foot to rotate the ankle and stretch the ligaments attached to the hip. Doctors at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend performing these ankle pumps and ankle rotations every 10 minutes or so until you are fully recovered.
Step 3
Slide your foot on the side you had the hip replaced toward your buttocks. Keep your heel flat on the bed or sofa as you are sitting up. Keep the foot level, making sure your knee does not twist or bend. Repeat the knee bends about 10 times, three or four times a day.
Step 4
Extend your leg and tighten your thigh muscles while you are lying down and raise your leg. Lift your foot as high as you can. Hold the lift for about 10 seconds, and slowly lower your leg to the bed. Repeat the straight leg raises until your thigh muscles are fatigued at least once or twice a day. Building the thigh muscles will help as you begin to walk.
Step 5
Stand behind a sturdy chair or other supported surface. Hold on to steady yourself and prevent falling. Raise your knee on the operated leg up toward your chest. Lift the knee to waist level. Hold for a count of three and slowly lower the leg. Repeat standing knee raises at least 10 times, twice a day.
Tips and Warnings
- To ensure a quick recovery, work through any pain and perform your exercises for 20 to 30 minutes two or three times a day, especially in early recovery.
- Expect to take at least two months to complete a full recovery. The pain and the swelling weaken the thigh and hip muscles considerably.
Things You'll Need
- Walker
- Cane
- Crutches
- Sturdy chair
Member Comments