Many of our patients see us because they want to avoid hip replacement surgery. However, if the condition is severe enough, a surgery may be required to restore functional use of the hip. At Movement Solutions, we specialize helping people who have had hip replacement surgery get back to activities they love.
At our office, we specialize in helping people in their 40’s-60’s who have had hip replacement surgery and want to get back to a high level’s of activity such as:
- hiking trails around the Upstate
- playing golf at the country club
- playing tennis with friends
- lifting weights at the gym
- keeping up with little ones
We get our patients back to activity through a program that includes hands-on treatement to alleviate pain, exercises to restore movement, and a plan to develop strength. This approach gives us the best opportunity to get our patients back activities they love.
When someone comes to us following a hip replacement surgery, we gather information and then design a treatment program based on our clients’ specific needs and goals.
We’ve found that there are 3-keys to helping middle-aged people get back to a high level of activity following a hip replacement surgery.
Key #1: Restoring movement of the hip
The hip is a ball and socket joint. As such, in moves in six directions (flexion, extension, abduction, internal rotation, external rotation, and adduction). While there are restrictions to how a far the hip can move immediatley following surgery, we need to eventually develop enough movement to enjoy higher level activites.
Key #2: Develop strength through patterns of movement.
While isolation movements are of value, moving through patterns is important if a person wishes to get back to activity. Once we have a baseline level of strength we work on developing strength in patterns of movements. When it comes to the hip, these movements include the squat, hinge, and lunge.
Key #3: Develop balance through single leg activity.
The muscles of the buttock and outer thigh play a significant role in balance. In order to keep stable when doing activities like hiking, the body must be challenged in a way that develops balance. This may also mean working of exercises the target the ankle and core muscles. As we move through a progression, we work on movements like a single leg deadlift and rear-foot elevated split squat to develop the body’s ability to balance on one leg.
When addressed with a well designed rehabilitation plan, returning to activity following a hip replacement is possible. If you have had or are planning to have a hip replacement surgery, the physical therapists at Movement Solutions would be glad to be a resource for you.
We have a free guide on athletic injures that can give you further insight into hip problems and help kickstart your recovery. We are available for a free 15-minute phone consultation to talk about your surgery and discuss your treatment options.
If you prefer an in-person consultation, we offer a limited number of free Discovery Visits at our office. This type of appointment of for those who are interested in working with us. It is an opportunity to ask questions, obtain clarity about your surgery, and foster confidence in our ability to help you.
If you’re certain that we’re a good fit and ready to book an appointment, you can inquire about cost and availability and get the process started.
If you’re unsure about what your next steps should be, call us at (864) 558-7346 and ask how we can help.