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Hip replacement surgery is better than ever, but rehab can make a huge difference.
Total hip replacement is less invasive, easier on the patient, with shorter hospital times then even 10 years go, according to one respected surgeon. 1
For a procedure on the largest bone joint in the entire body, surgery outcomes are impressive: a 90% success rate according to some data, with artificial replacement lasting 15 years or more.
But even though people are walking more quickly, often with greatly lessened pain, physical therapy after his hip replacement can strongly impact the quality, length of recovery, and, some studies conclude, mitigate the risk of a second or “revision surgery.”
On this page, learn about:
* One of the most advanced programs in New York
* Who opts for hip replacement surgery?
* What is hip replacement surgery?
* Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery First weeks
* Total hip replacement recovery regimen
* Total hip replacement rehabilitation FAQ
Park Sports Physical Therapy of Brooklyn: One of the most advanced programs in New York
Park Sports Physical Therapy has invested in qualifying staff with the respected certification of Advanced Hip Clinician, by New York’s Hospital of Special Surgery (HSS). We are proud to offer our clients one of the most advanced hip pain physical therapy programs in New York. Park Sports is a member of the HSS Rehabilitation Network.
(Please see the page Hip Joint Pain for more hip pain services).
Who opts for hip replacement surgery?
Overall, the number total hip replacements are growing, now estimated at over 330,000 per year. Patients are increasingly younger, as people over 55 remain active, with an increased lifespan.
Osteoarthritis is the most common driver of hip replacement surgery. Connected to age, arthritis as a “wear and tear“ condition, can become painful and limiting. Non-surgical treatment may begin, but if the condition becomes serious, hip replacement is offered.
Other total hip replacement procedures result from hip fractures, usually from a fall.
We see many fewer athletes, but dancers may suffer from severe hip problems.
What is hip replacement surgery?
In hip replacement the ball-and-socket hip joint is replaced with components made of ceramic, plastic, or metal. In recent years these components have become lighter, more durable.
But there are many variations in the surgical procedure, depending on the patient, the surgical approach, and other factors.
Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery First weeks
Park Sports Physical Therapy offers a multifaceted treatment plan, utilizing our advanced hip joint rehabilitation techniques for those recovering from a total hip replacement.
On day one of Physical Therapy you will benefit from a thorough, and gentle, movement and pain evaluation. Based on this, and consultations with your medical team, we will then formulate a program that progresses your strength and functionality from a place of atrophy to a place of strength and optimal functionality.
The aim of the treatment plan is over time to move from a place of non-functionality to a gradual return to ordinary activity with less and less pain.
Total hip replacement recovery regimen
The physical therapy regimen and then extends for some weeks, the exact time depending on the patient’s age, physical fitness, and commitment to the exercises. An average range is four to six weeks, although younger, more fit patients sometimes can complete the course in as little as in one to two weeks.
These regimens include exercises during physical therapy and exercises to take home, which focus on strengthening and mobilizing the muscles of the lower extremities.
Our aim here is to address issues, such as imbalances and improper body mechanics. These imbalances and body mechanics issues are often created and certainly exacerbated by hip dysfunction. But it’s also possible that these issues may have led to hip problems in the first place.
It’s why some experts in the field point to “pre-hab“ — a course of gentle physical therapy before the procedure—as a way of enhancing the long-term success of the operation.
A Holistic Approach to Therapy
Our unique rehab procedures for hip replacement surgery rehab might also include the utilization of soft-tissue mobilization, kinesiology taping, manual therapy, and other unique techniques such as yoga therapy, to encourage a mind and body approach to treatment.
The incorporation of these varying methods will differ from person to person.
More information? Need to make an appointment? Contact us online or call at 718-230-1180.
Total hip replacement rehabilitation FAQ
How soon will I be walking smoothly?
At six weeks most people are walking without assistance and with a decent gait (pace of walking).
How soon can I drive?
A patient must demonstrate full breaking strength before legally driving.
How soon can I return to work?
If you work in an office job, you may be able to return in as little as two weeks, but in more active jobs, in construction or delivery for example it may be 4 to 6 weeks.
When can I get back to climbing and hiking?
Many in the baby boomer generation continue to engage in strenuous activities and sports. But climbing and hiking may be possible only after three or four months.
1 Dr. P. Maxwell Courtney, in creakyjoints.com
