What You Can Never Do After Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgery is very common these days and has a high success rate. However, if you’ve had an operation, you need to think carefully about adjusting your lifestyle and physical movement expectations. After this surgery, there are certain things you should never do. Don’t think that after surgery you should not engage in any physical activity. As long as you follow your therapist’s advice on movement restrictions while exercising, you should be fine. So, talk to your physical therapist to see what they advise in your specific circumstances.

Please note that specific recommendations may vary depending on the individual case, the type of hip replacement, and the surgeon’s preferences. Here are some general considerations:

Hip Replacement – Things to Never Do

It’s crucial to follow the post-operative instructions and attend any recommended rehabilitation or physical therapy sessions. Ignoring medical advice can impact the success of the surgery and the long-term outcome. Below are the things you should never do:

Image demonstrating pain after hip replacement surgery

Ignoring weight maintenance

Maintaining a healthy body weight is important to reduce the strain on the hip joint and ensure the longevity of the replacement.

Prolonged sitting or standing

Prolonged periods of sitting or standing in the same position should be approached with caution. It’s important to change positions regularly to avoid stiffness and discomfort.

Twisting or pivoting

Sudden and forceful twisting or pivoting on the replaced hip should be avoided as it can increase the risk of dislocation.

High-impact activities

Activities that involve high impact, such as running, jumping, or participating in high-impact sports, are often discouraged. These activities can place excessive stress on the hip joint and may increase the risk of implant dislocation or wear.

Never break movement restrictions after hip replacement

After surgery, a major concern is the risk of dislocation affecting the replacement implant. The replaced hip is less stable than a normal hip joint.

Positions to avoid include:

Sitting on low seats, including a toilet seat. Use cushions or other devices to raise the seat. Always make sure that that your knees are lower than your hip.

Bending forward more than 90 degrees will put strain on the hip replacement. Generally speaking, if your knee is below your hip joint, you are in a safe position.

Also, avoid bending over or trying to pick up something on the floor after your hip replacement.

Crossing your legs while sitting or putting on socks and shoes. Your therapist will show you how to safely get dressed, sit down, walk, and perform other routine activities. Get advice on the best sleeping position to avoid crossing your legs.

Never forget about permanent care

Your recovery rate will depend on the type of operation you had, as well as your physical health before surgery. Keep an eye on your weight because excess weight increases the stresses on the hip replacement and can cause loosening.

Long-term and permanent care is designed to slow down wear and tear on the socket or loosening of implants.

If you have persistent pain, see a doctor as this could indicate infection or loosening. Look out for infections anywhere in your body as they can travel via your bloodstream to the hip replacement.

Physical and occupational therapies after a hip replacement

Surgery is only half the battle in the fight for pain-free mobility—the other half is physical therapy. A physical therapist will work with you to advise on movements you should never do, and to help you to get back to walking.

Physical therapy after this surgery is crucial for both mental and physical health. But be aware that but it must be done very safely. Physical therapy has huge benefits as it strengthens muscles and joints, is good for your blood circulation, and prevents pressure sores.

Occupational therapy will teach you how to modify your movements to stay safe after this surgery. You will learn how to dress, bath and practice other household tasks to avoid complications.

Fairview Rehab & Nursing Home in Queens, NY, offers both in- and outpatient physical therapy and occupational therapy for patients who underwent hip replacement. Our skilled and friendly staff have lots of experience in rehabilitation therapy after hip replacement and other joint replacement surgery.

Resources:

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/recovery/activities-after-hip-replacement/#:~:text=The%20Don’ts,floor%20while%20you%20are%20sitting
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537031/
https://www.premierortho.org/how-to-make-your-hip-replacement-last-longer/

This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.