Rehabilitation From Total Hip Replacement

Physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) are an integral part of your post-operative care at NYPH and after you return home. You will receive a visit from you physical therapist on the first post-operative day.

Your daily therapy sessions

You will be seen by a physical therapist and occupational therapist on the day after surgery.  Your therapists will instruct you in your exercise program, which is directed toward improving your functional mobility and strength of your legs. The therapist will also go over precautions you must observe to prevent dislocation of your new hip during the healing phase. Initially, the therapists will assist you in sitting up at the edge of the bed (dangling). Next you will stand with the use of a walker and assistance from the therapist. The amount of weight you may place on your operated leg will be depend on your surgery and will be determined by your surgeon. As the days progress after surgery, you will increase the frequency and distance of walking. You may also practice stair climbing prior to discharge. During your hospitalization you and your caregiver will learn how to manage your daily activities after the surgery. Your therapist may issue you Adaptive Equipment / Devices to help you become independent in these activities.

For the first few days after surgery, most patients benefit from taking pain medication 30-45 minutes prior to their therapy session.  You should discuss this with your nurse and/or therapist.

Beginning to walk

Stand comfortably and erect with your weight evenly balanced on your walker or crutches. Move your walker or crutches forward a short distance.

Then move forward, lifting your operated leg so that the heel of your foot will touch the floor first. As you move, your knee and ankle will bend and your entire foot will rest evenly on the floor.

As you complete the step allow your toe to lift off the floor. Move the walker again and your knee and hip will again reach forward for your next step.

Remember, touch your heel first, then flatten your foot, then lift your toes off the floor. Try to walk as smoothly as you can. Don’t hurry.

 As your muscle strength and endurance improve, you may spend more time walking. Gradually, you will put more and more weight on your leg. Our goal is that you will begin walking with the assistance of the therapists on the 1^st day after surgery.

Looking Ahead

Before leaving, you will be instructed in an exercise program for home.

Remember, you make the difference

It is extremely important that you understand that your motivation and your participation in your therapy program is a vital element in the speed and success of your long-range rehabilitation, as well as getting ready to go home.

back to top