Hip replacement rehabilitation
Arthroplasty of the hip may be performed either due to wear or after an injury, such as a fracture of the femur. However, the more common of the two is to end up in surgery due to gradual wearing. One of the most common reasons for this is hip osteoarthritis.
In hip arthroplasty, the hip joint is replaced with a new artificial joint. This means that new components are attached to both the hip and the femur.
Hip rehabilitation begins before the artificial joint surgery
Ideally, rehabilitation will begin before surgery. Good muscle condition of the lower extremities, especially the muscles that support the hip, has been shown to promote better recovery from surgery.
After the operation, rehabilitation begins immediately in the wake-up room, in which initial movement and balance are supported with elbow crutches, or if necessary, a rollator or walker. Generally, aided walking is not required after surgery, i.e., full weight can be applied to the feet. In the early rehabilitation stage, the ideal exercises promote mobility and walking while reducing swelling. Already on the second day after surgery, people are able to walk up the stairs with the help of a physiotherapist.
Rehabilitation for hip replacement surgery at Nordic Health
At Nordic Health, we prefer to rehabilitate the hip both before and after the operation, so that both the operation and post-surgery rehabilitation provide optimal recovery outcomes for the individual. Before surgery, training is done within the limits allowed for pain, both with exercise equipment and body weight. We focus on pain relief, maintaining hip mobility, and strengthening muscles for holistic support. If necessary, we can also practice walking with elbow crutches so that you will already be familiar with this when the day of surgery comes.
After surgery, we begin rehabilitation by following the instructions of the surgeon. Postoperative rehabilitation includes rehabilitation with our exercise equipment, scar tissue treatment, mobility training and a return to normal daily activities through new means.