Rehab Exercises

You will see the physiotherapist during your hospital stay and he/she will help you to get moving again, also advising on exercises to strengthen your muscles. You will receive guidance on the standard ‘dos and don’ts’ following hip surgery – for example, how to get in and out of bed, climb stairs, use the shower, etc. It is very important that you follow this advice to minimise straining the muscles around your hip.
The exercises recommended by your physiotherapist are a crucial part of your recovery, so it is essential that you continue to do them. There are certain movements that you should not do during early recovery (such as bending your hip more than a right angle) – your physiotherapist will give you further advice and tips to protect your new joint.
The physiotherapist will provide information on whether you need any help at home and offer advice on how to maintain independence in your daily life. He/she will assess how physically capable you are and assess your circumstances at home when you are about to leave hospital – they may also be able to provide specialised devices to help around the home.

Inpatient rehab is not usually necessary with our enhanced recovery program after joint replacements. However, there are some patients who live alone and can’t go home safely at this stage after their surgery. They will be sent to rehab until they are ready and safe to return home. Assoc.Prof McMahon and the staff of the pre-admission clinic will discuss this with you before surgery.

Exercises for particular surgical procedures are in the booklet given to you before surgery and the physios at the pre-admission clinic will customize these exercises for you. You will have less discomfort and recover faster if you build-up your muscles before surgery.