Total hip replacement is a major surgical procedure that requires both physical and mental preparation for the patient to have a successful recovery. Preparing for a total hip replacement involves understanding the surgery itself and achieving superior outcomes by adopting a specific exercise routine before the surgery. These exercises are designed to strengthen the muscles and joints surrounding the hip and improve overall mobility, which can greatly impact the post-operative recovery process.
While the recovery journey after a hip replacement can be long, starting with a strong fitness foundation and knowledge about the procedure will help ensure a smoother transition back to daily activities. By following an exercise regimen before surgery, patients can set themselves up for success and significantly optimize their healing process.
Key Takeaways
- Preparing for a total hip replacement involves understanding the surgery and following an exercise routine before the procedure.
- Strengthening the muscles and joints surrounding the hip through exercise can significantly impact post-operative recovery.
- A strong fitness foundation and knowledge about the procedure can help ensure a smoother transition back to daily activities.
Understanding A Hip Replacement
A hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which an orthopedic surgeon replaces a damaged hip joint with an artificial joint, typically made of metal or plastic components. This type of joint replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is often performed to relieve pain and improve mobility in patients with severe hip arthritis or other hip joint disorders.
During a total hip replacement surgery, the damaged joint components are removed and replaced with prosthetic components designed to mimic the function and movement of the natural hip joint. The artificial joint, which is also referred to as the implant, is carefully positioned and secured in place to help ensure a successful outcome.
Several different approaches can be used for total hip replacement surgery. The chosen approach will depend on a variety of factors, including the patient’s age, weight, overall health, and the surgeon’s preference and experience. Here are some of the most common approaches:
- Anterior approach: This approach involves making an incision at the front of the hip, between the hip muscles. This approach is becoming increasingly popular because it offers a quicker recovery time and less muscle damage compared to other approaches.
- Posterior approach: This approach involves an incision at the back of the hip along the buttock crease. This approach allows for good visualization of the hip joint and is often used for patients with a history of hip dislocation.
- Lateral approach: This approach involves making an incision on the side of the hip, between the hip muscles. This approach allows for good visualization of the hip joint and is often used as it doesn’t cut through as much of the glute muscles.
It is important to note that each approach has advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of approach should be made in consultation with the patient’s surgeon. The surgeon can recommend the most appropriate approach based on the patient’s needs and circumstances.
Don’t fight for a specific surgical approach. You really want your surgeon doing the type of surgery they are most comfortable doing and skilled at.
Patients who undergo total hip replacement surgery often experience improvements in their quality of life after recovery. Pain relief and increased mobility are primary benefits that can lead to enhanced daily activities and independence.
Preparation Before A Hip Replacement Surgery
Pre-Habilitation and Importance of Exercise
Before undergoing a total hip replacement surgery, engaging in a pre-habilitation exercise program is essential. This program aims to strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint, improve range of motion, and increase muscle strength. By doing so, patients can enhance their recovery process and make it easier to regain function after surgery.
Some effective exercises to consider include:
- ankle pumps
- clamshells
- mini squats
- single-leg balance
- thigh squeezes
- glute squeezes
Managing Pre-Surgery Pain
Managing hip pain before surgery is important as it can impact the success of the exercise program. As arthritis progresses, the pain will become more severe and limit one’s ability to perform tasks of daily living and exercise. The goal at this phase is unrealistic to get rid of the pain but to manage it enough to be able to perform strengthening exercises.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort during exercise. However, patients should always consult their primary care doctor before taking any pain medication, especially if they have a history of heart, stomach, or kidney issues.
A topical pain cream such as Voltaren is also a great option for those who don’t respond to Ibuprofen or Tylenol. It seems to be quite effective based on patient reports.
Swimming and bike riding are great ways to stay active without putting much pressure on the hip. Walking in the water or against a lazy river helps maintain muscle mass, while a stationary bike is easy to use at home.
Finally, we absolutely love using a heat pack for hip arthritis and degenerative changes. A hot pack increases the local blood flow, which helps lubricate the arthritis and loosens up the joint. You’ll notice that the joint feels better when it’s warmed up? A hot pack can do the exact same thing. Our favorite hot pack is the Valgeluik Heating pad because it actually gets warm enough and is large enough to make a difference.
Preparation at Home
Preparing the home environment beforehand can significantly improve post-surgery recovery. A support system, such as family and friends, is essential to help with daily tasks and provide emotional encouragement.
Installing aids like a raised toilet seat and a shower chair can make it easier for patients to maintain independence while recovering. Installing temporary handrails in the bathroom and shower area helps prevent falls.
Also, it is advised to remove any potential tripping hazards, like loose rugs or clutter, to ensure safety during the recovery phase.
Blood Thinner Management
Blood thinners are often prescribed to patients who are at risk of developing blood clots after surgery. Before the surgery, patients must discuss with their doctors the proper dosage of blood thinners and any potential risks associated with their use.
In most cases, patients will have to stop or temporarily pause their use of blood thinners to prevent excessive bleeding during surgery and then resume their normal medication regimen after surgery.
Maintaining appropriate blood flow and clot prevention is crucial to successful recovery after a total hip replacement surgery.
Exercise Routine Post Hip Replacement
Bed-Supported Exercise Routine
Incorporating a bed-supported exercise routine is an effective way to prepare for a total hip replacement. Start with ankle rotations, moving your ankle inward and then outward, repeating 10 times in each direction. Another exercise is bed-supported knee bends; slide your foot towards your buttocks while keeping your heel on the bed. These are easy exercises to get the legs moving.
Ankle rotations are a great exercise to start with, as they help to improve mobility in the ankle joint. To perform this exercise, lie on your back with your legs straight before you. Slowly rotate your ankle inward and then outward, moving your foot as far as possible in each direction. Repeat this exercise 10 times in each direction.
The bridge exercise is another effective exercise to incorporate into your bed routine. To perform this exercise, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the bed. Slowly lift your hips off the bed, keeping your feet and shoulders on the bed. Hold this position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your hips back down to the starting position. Do as many as possible before pain or fatigue sets in. Bridges can help to strengthen the muscles in your hips, lower back, and core, which will be beneficial in the recovery process after your total hip replacement.
Heel slides are another great exercise to include in your routine. To perform this exercise, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the bed. Slowly slide one heel along the bed towards your buttocks, keeping your other leg straight. Hold this position for a few seconds, then slowly slide your heel back to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 10 times on each leg.
Standing Exercise Routine Post-Surgery
Besides bed-supported exercises, introducing standing exercises to your routine can significantly improve your strength and mobility before surgery. Some key exercises include standing hip abduction, knee raises, and hip extensions. During the abduction exercise, ensure you have something to hold onto for support, and you may only be able to perform the movement on the affected side.
Incorporating standing exercises into your routine can greatly improve your strength and mobility before your total hip replacement surgery. These exercises can help to strengthen the muscles in your legs and improve your balance, which will be crucial in the recovery process after your surgery.
However, you may not be able to perform on the non-affected leg as it could put too much weight on the arthritic hip. Try and see how it goes but listen to your body if it’s painful.
One important standing exercise to include in your routine is standing hip abduction. To perform this exercise, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a chair or countertop for support. Slowly lift one leg out to the side, keeping your knee straight. Hold this position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 30 times.
Another important standing exercise to include in your routine is standing knee raises or marching. To perform this exercise, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a chair or countertop for support. Slowly lift one knee towards your chest, keeping your other foot flat. Hold this position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 30 times on each leg.
Finally, standing hip extensions are another great exercise in your routine. To perform this exercise, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a chair or countertop for support. Slowly lift one leg behind you, keeping your knee straight. Hold this position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 10 times on each leg.
Flexibility and Stretching
Incorporating flexibility exercises and stretching can help improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness after surgery, but be aware of your surgical precautions while stretching. Gently stretch your hip, knee, and ankle muscles, ensuring you don’t force any movements or cause pain. Remember to maintain a steady and controlled motion while stretching.
Stretching can be important in preparing for a total hip replacement surgery. Stretching can help to improve your range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and improve your overall flexibility. Here are some hip stretches that can be beneficial to include in your routine:
- Hip flexor stretch: To perform this stretch, kneel on one knee with your other foot flat on the ground before you. Keeping your back straight, gently lean forward until you feel a stretch in the front of your hip. Hold this position for 30 seconds, then switch legs and repeat.
- IT band stretch: To perform this stretch, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and cross your right leg over your left. Reach your right arm over your head, then lean to the left until you feel a stretch along the outside of your right hip. Hold this position for 30 seconds, then switch sides and repeat.
Working with a Physical Therapist
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons emphasizes the importance of working with a physical therapist to ensure you exercise correctly and safely. They can give personalized recommendations, teach you how to use crutches or a walker, and help you increase your walking duration during recovery. Moreover, they’ll keep track of your progress and gradually introduce more complex exercises as your capacity improves.
There has been a recent push of not performing physical therapy as a cost-saving measure after a hip replacement and performing a walking program instead. While this may work for a certain percentage of the population, this is not the best route for everyone.
We highly recommend performing one to two physical therapy appointments to build strength and gain important information about the upcoming surgery and what to expect from a hip replacement.
We also highly recommend performing physical therapy after surgery, even if it is only once a week, to ensure that progress is steady and on track.
It’s much easier to maintain progress than it is to try and catch up if you fall behind.
By following these guidelines and working closely with a physical therapist, you’ll give yourself the best chance for a smooth recovery after a total hip replacement.
Recovery After Surgery
After a total hip replacement surgery, taking the necessary steps for a successful recovery is important. The following sections provide insights on managing post-surgery pain, resuming mobility, understanding the risks, maintaining blood flow, and the significance of a healthy diet and hydration.
Managing Post-Surgery Pain
Pain may be experienced after undergoing a total hip replacement surgery, but it can be managed effectively with appropriate pain medication prescribed by the surgeon. Taking these medications on time as instructed is crucial to prevent discomfort and make the recovery process smoother. Remember to communicate with your healthcare team should you experience unusual pain or discomfort.
You’ll also notice that your hip feels best when warm and active. You’ll get some of the best pain relief from walking. Try to get up and walk for 5-15 minutes multiple times throughout the day to reduce stiffness, pump out the swelling, and create more blood flow to the hip for healing.
Resuming Mobility
Regaining mobility is an essential component of the recovery process. Initially, patients may need the assistance of a walker, crutches, or a support system to help them move around. Within a few weeks, the patient should slowly transition to walking independently while gradually increasing their range of motion. Rehabilitative exercises a physical therapist provides can also help improve muscle strength, flexibility, and overall support after surgery.
Risk of Dislocation and Infection
A patient should know the risks of total hip replacement surgery, such as dislocation and infection. Following the surgeon’s instructions and avoiding certain movements that may cause dislocation is crucial during the early recovery. Maintaining cleanliness around the surgery site and promptly reporting any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or unusual discharge, helps prevent complications.
Maintaining Blood Flow
After hip replacement surgery, there is a risk of blood clots developing in the patient’s leg veins. It is vital to maintain adequate blood flow to prevent these complications. There are several ways to achieve this, such as:
- Wearing compression stockings as prescribed by the healthcare team
- Performing gentle calf exercises and ankle pumps as directed
- Elevating the legs while resting to help promote blood flow back to the heart
Maintaining a Healthy Diet and Hydration
Aiding in the healing process and overall recovery, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying well-hydrated are essential. Patients should focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods, such as lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. This helps combat inflammation and provides the body with the necessary resources for healing. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day aids in staying energized, promoting digestion, and supporting the efficient transportation of nutrients in the body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Incorporating exercises into your routine before undergoing a total hip replacement can contribute to a successful recovery. Focusing on low-impact activities that strengthen muscles around the hip joint and improve overall mobility is essential. Some effective pre-surgery exercises include leg raises, hip extensions, and gentle stretching routines.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any exercise program, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs. Additionally, maintaining a consistent workout schedule will increase not only your physical preparedness but also your mental readiness for the recovery process.
In summary, investing time in appropriate and well-planned exercises before your hip replacement surgery can significantly affect the overall outcome. By ensuring you’re in the best possible condition before the operation, you can set yourself up for a smoother and more efficient rehabilitation process.
