Top 5 Exercises to Improve Mobility After Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is a transformative procedure that can significantly enhance your quality of life. However, a successful recovery depends on proper post-operative care, as well as incorporating the right physiotherapy exercises. Gentle exercises like those listed below will help you regain mobility, strengthen muscles, and increase long-term success after surgery. 

In this guide, we outline five best exercises after hip replacement surgery to help you improve your mobility and get back on your feet. Remember,take it slowly and gently: recovery is a journey and each step forward counts.

The Importance of Physiotherapy After Hip Replacement

Physiotherapy plays a critical role in post-operative hip replacement care. Engaging in prescribed exercises, helps you to:

• Restore joint flexibility
• Strengthen surrounding muscles
• Prevent complications like blood clots
• Enhance overall mobility and confidence

Whether you are just beginning your post operative hip replacement care or are looking for exercises to further your progress, the five outlined below are designed to be effective and safe. Always remember to follow your medical provider’s advice to ensure optimal outcomes.

Disclaimer: Before attempting any exercises, consult your physiotherapist or medical provider. Always warm up your body beforehand, and stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort. Progress slowly and consistently to avoid overexertion.

The top 5 exercises to help improving mobility after hip replacement surgery

Ankle Pumps and Rotations

This simple yet effective exercise boosts circulation and helps prevent blood clots, a common concern after surgery. It’s a nice gentle exercise to start with after your hip replacement surgery. You should consider it as an essential addition to your daily routine.

How to do it:

• Sit or lie down comfortably.
• Flex your ankle by pointing your toes upward, then downward.
• Rotate your ankle in a circular motion, first clockwise, then counterclockwise.
• Repeat 10-15 times per hour, ensuring consistent movement throughout the day.

Benefits: Improves blood flow, reduces swelling, and maintains joint mobility. Regularly performing this exercise can help to lower the risk of post-surgical complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

2. Thigh Squeezes (Quadriceps Sets)

This exercise helps strengthen your thigh muscles (quadriceps), which play a crucial role in stabilising your hip and improving mobility. Incorporating these into your post-operative hip replacement care routine is highly recommended.

How to do it:

• Sit or lie on a flat surface with your legs extended.
• Press the back of your knee down toward the surface by tightening your thigh muscle.
• Hold for 5-10 seconds, then release.
• Repeat 10-15 times, several times daily. Aim to build up the duration of each hold as your strength improves.

Benefits: Strengthens the thigh muscles, supports the hip joint, and encourages improved stability. Over time, this exercise will make it easier to perform activities like walking and climbing stairs.

3. Leg Slides (Heel Slides)

This exercise improves flexibility in both your hip and knee, helping you regain a greater range of motion. It’s often cited as one of the best exercises after hip replacement because of its focus on smooth and controlled movement.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back with your legs straight.
• Slowly bend one knee, sliding your heel toward your body.
• Straighten your leg back to the starting position.
• Repeat 10-15 times on each leg daily, gradually increasing the number of repetitions as you progress.

Benefits: Enhances joint flexibility and promotes smooth, controlled movement. This exercise is particularly effective for reducing stiffness and improving overall mobility in the hip joint.

Engaging in hobbies and light exercise can uplift your mood and accelerate recovery after surgery. However, moderation is key to prevent overexertion.

4. Buttock Squeezes (Gluteal Sets)

Strengthening the gluteal muscles is essential for improved support and mobility post-surgery. These exercises are invaluable during the recovery process after hip replacement surgery and should be performed regularly throughout the day.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back or sit in a comfortable position.
• Squeeze your buttocks together tightly.
• Hold the contraction for 5-10 seconds, then relax.
• Repeat 10-15 times throughout the day. Focus on proper form to maximise the benefits of this exercise.

Benefits: Builds strength in the gluteal muscles, aiding hip stability and movement. Strong gluteal muscles are essential for walking, standing, and other weight-bearing activities.

5. Standing Hip Abductions

This exercise targets the muscles on the side of your hip, promoting strength and balance as you progress in your recovery. Among the top hip replacement exercises, this one is a great one for enhancing mobility and stability.

How to do it:

• Stand upright, holding onto a sturdy surface for balance.
• Slowly lift one leg out to the side, keeping it straight and avoiding tilting your torso.
• Hold for a few seconds, then lower the leg back down.
• Repeat 10-15 times on each leg daily, as strength allows. Gradually increase the number of repetitions and the duration of each hold.

Benefits: Strengthens the hip abductors and enhances overall stability. This exercise also helps improve your balance, making everyday activities like walking safer and more comfortable.

Consistency and Progression

Consistency in performing these exercises is crucial for successful recovery. Each of these post-operative hip replacement care exercises has been designed to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility, all while minimising risks of complications. Start slowly, focusing on proper form rather than speed. Over time, you should notice significant improvements in your movement and overall well-being.

Recovery is not a race, and it’s important to listen to your body. If any exercise causes discomfort or pain, stop immediately and discuss it with your physiotherapist. They can help you adjust the movements or suggest alternative exercises tailored to your specific needs.

In addition to these exercises, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients, and avoid habits that can hinder recovery, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. These small but important steps will support your body as it heals.

Conclusion

Gentle and consistent exercise is a cornerstone of recovery after hip replacement surgery. By incorporating these five exercises into your daily routine, you can build strength, improve flexibility, and regain confidence in your mobility. Always consult your physiotherapist to ensure you are performing the exercises correctly and progressing at a safe pace. Remember, small steps lead to significant progress. Don’t rush the process—patience and persistence are key to a successful recovery.