Total hip replacement aims to increase the function of the hip and reduce the pain associated with hip deterioration or injury. If you have recently undergone a total hip replacement surgery, or are considering having the procedure done and are curious about the process, you’ll be happy to know that physical therapy will help.
There is no doubt that you should implement physical therapy after you have undergone total hip replacement surgery, but did you know that also doing preoperative physical therapy can increase the speed, quality, and effectiveness of your recovery?
What Exactly is a Hip Replacement?
The hip is comprised of a ball at the top of the femur that connects to a socket located in the pelvis. This type of joint is known as “ball-and-socket”.
Total hip replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes cartilage and damaged bone from the hip joint and replaces them with an artificial version (prosthetic) made out of metal or strong synthetic materials.
Causes of Needing Arthroplasty
While not all cases of chronic hip pain require surgery, it becomes necessary when the hip joint is worn-down or damaged to the point at which you are experiencing pain at rest and your mobility is severely compromised. It is worth noting that most candidates for the surgery are 60 years of age and older, but can be performed on adults of any age if the situation requires it.
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of needing a hip replacement. Other causes include, but are not limited to:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Avascular necrosis
- Fractures or breaks
- Tumors
- Bone dysplasia
Many people delay scheduling a hip replacement for several reasons. Because of the delay, many patient will suffer from significant leg or thigh weakness and will have developed poor walking habits. Many patients will "limp" before the surgery and can also maintain this same limping pattern of walking after the surgery. this is where physical therapy can be vital to restore strength, mobility and, more importantly, help to limit the bad walking pattern that developed.
We see numerous patents recovering from a total hip replacement from the following establishments:
Physical Therapy for Arthroplasty
As mentioned before, physical therapy is not only effective postoperatively, but is beneficial to be practiced before your surgery as well. Getting an early start on treatment can increase stamina, strength, and mobility – allowing your body to more easily support your new implant.
Preoperative physical therapy aims to:
- Reduce overall recovery time
- Regain some mobility so you have an easier time with recovery
- Soothe pain
- Potentially reduce post-op complications
Soon after your surgery, your physical therapist will help you perform the once-easy tasks that now may appear a bit daunting, such as turning in bed, sitting up, and even assisted walking (crutches, walker). As you progress in your treatment, your physical therapist will help you with stair climbing, balance, and full movement of your new hip.
Postoperative physical therapy aims to:
- Ensure a smooth and successful recovery
- Strengthen the muscles that support the hip
- Regain full range of motion
- Get you to the point where you no longer need therapy
- Increase quality of life
If you are experiencing any redness, swelling, or fever associated with your knee pain, you could be experiencing a potentially life-threatening infection and should seek medical attention immediately.
Why Visit a Physical Therapist for a Hip Replacement?
Your physical therapist is there to help you master your technique. With improper form, the same exercises that are designed to heal you could actually harm you. By using the wrong muscles, favoring one side of the body, or improperly balancing your weight, such exercises can have a completely different effect on your body. Your physical therapist is there to guide you every step of the way. An experienced physical therapist knows exactly what questions to ask and signs to look for, indicating you’re executing the exercise properly.
Best Physical Therapy in Reading, PA
When you plan a visit to our office, you’ll be seen by our physical therapist, Joe Miller. Joe has spent over 30-years serving patients in the Reading and Berks area. He’ll listen to your symptoms and concerns, conduct a careful assessment, and put together a care plan to get you feeling your best. He’ll guide you through every step of your physical therapy plan. You won’t be caught off guard by any methods or treatment techniques. We keep our patients informed and comfortable throughout their entire appointment. If you’re experiencing recurring or worsening knee pain, plan your visit and start feeling some relief.
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