Every year, surgeons perform various hip replacement surgeries. This is a life-changing procedure for elderly people that offers relief from joint pain, a renewed sense of independence and increased mobility. But it comes with the precaution for a lifetime to protect the implant and ensure the proper recovery for the years to come. Understanding what to do and what not to do after hip replacement is important to stay active. Certain habits and movements increase the risk of dislocation even years after surgery. If you or your loved one had a hip replacement, then it’s important to understand the precautions for a lifetime. Explore this blog to learn how to take care of new hip joints and what steps to take to stay active and safe.
What To Do?
Even after the process of healing, some movements should be avoided to protect the new hip joints. The common precautions that increase the improvement in the results of hip replacement are as follows:-
- Avoid bending the hip
- Avoid crossing your legs
- Avoid twisting your hip when standing or turning
- Avoid activities with high impact, such as jumping or running
These movements help to avoid complications and increase mobility for years to come.
Below is the proper breakdown of precautions and how to avoid making mistakes during the recovery period.
Don’t Bend The Hip At a 90-degree Angle
After the hip replacement, there is a risk of dislocation if the hip gets bent at a 90-degree angle. This is because the soft tissues around the joint take time to heal and are not able to hold the implant properly if pushed too far. Avoid lifting the knee too high or bending it. Follow the tips to maintain safety:-
- Avoid sitting in deep or low chairs
- When seated, keep your knee lower than your hip
- Don’t bend to tie your shoes or pick up things
- Consider a cushion for extra height
If you are not sure that bending positions are safe, then consult with the doctor for personal guidance.
Avoid Crossing The Legs
Crossing the legs may place rotational stress on the hip joint, which increases the risk of dislocation during the initial stage of the recovery period. For the protection:-
- Avoid crossing your legs while sitting
- Sleep with a pillow between your knees
- Instead of twisting at the hip, turn your whole world when you want to change the direction
These tips help to maintain proper alignment and support the recovery of muscles around new joints.
Void Twisting The Hip
Twisting movements place the stress on the hip joints, which increases the risk of dislocation during recovery. Even small turns can put strain on surrounding tissues and muscles.
To decrease the complications:-
- Turn your whole body instead of twisting
- Keep your feet aligned when walking
- Take small steps when changing direction
These adjustments help to protect the hip and improve stability in the long term.
Avoid High-Impact Movements
Exercise is important for healing and joint health. But the high-impact activities place stress on the hip implant.
Activities to include with low impact:-
- Water aerobics
- Swimming
- Walking on a balanced surface
- Chair yoga
- Gentle stretching
Before beginning any fitness routine, consult with your health care provider.
Conclusion
For most people who have had a hip replacement, there are no such restrictions. Only they have to maintain a healthy weight, avoid falls, stay active and protect their new hip joints. The instructions and restrictions you receive for care of hip replacement surgery depend on the type of surgery, medical condition, age and overall health. If you have any concerns, then consult with Dr. Rajinder Singh. He specializes in managing the simple to complex surgery related to orthopaedics at Kalyan Hospital. He is also having the experience of minimal endoscopic spine surgery.
FAQ’S
- Do I have to follow the restrictions forever?
No, all the restrictions are temporary, and only need to be followed for the initial stage of recovery.
- Which sports activities are safe?
Activities like swimming, golf and stationary cycling are safe for the long-term.
