Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
Total Hip Replacement: A Life-Changing Surgery
Total hip replacement (THR) is among the most successful elective surgeries in medicine — it reliably eliminates arthritic hip pain and restores function. Physiotherapy is essential both before surgery (prehabilitation) and after, to ensure the best possible outcome and prevent the most common complications.
Hip Precautions After THR
Depending on the surgical approach (posterior vs. anterior), specific hip precautions apply — typically for the first 6–12 weeks. Posterior approach precautions include: no hip flexion beyond 90°, no crossing the legs, no hip internal rotation. Your physiotherapist ensures you understand and follow these precautions to prevent dislocation while the soft tissues heal.
Rehabilitation Phases
Phase 1: Immediate Post-Op (Days 0–7)
Physiotherapy begins Day 1 in hospital. Goals: mobilise safely with walking aids, prevent DVT, restore normal gait pattern (no Trendelenburg limp), and begin gentle hip strengthening within precaution limits. Ankle pumps, static glute squeezes, inner range quads, hip abduction in lying.
Phase 2: Early Home Recovery (Weeks 2–6)
Progress from walking frame → crutches → walking stick as confidence and strength improve. Begin progressive hip abductor and hip extensor strengthening. Wound care and swelling management. Many patients benefit from home physiotherapy visits during this phase.
Phase 3: Functional Strengthening (Weeks 6–12)
Hip precautions typically lifted at 6 weeks. Progress to: mini-squats, sit-to-stand from progressively lower chairs, step-ups, stationary cycling. Target: walking normally without aids, climbing stairs, returning to driving (typically 6–8 weeks).
Phase 4: Full Recovery (Months 3–6)
Return to all activities of daily living, social activities, and low-impact exercise. Pool walking and swimming from 6 weeks. Walking for fitness, cycling, and golf are all appropriate.
Hip Replacement Rehab in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we provide comprehensive THR rehabilitation including home visits. Contact us to start your recovery.