Hip Exercises

After hip replacement surgery, you will be taught an exercise program that you will be responsible to continue with for the first two weeks after surgery. As you improve and progress from your surgery, you will be introduced to new exercises that are appropriate for your recovery level.  You should only perform these exercises under the direction of your physiotherapist or surgeon.

Exercise 1

This exercise encourages proper positioning of the operated leg and strengthens the muscles that control your leg rotation. It is important to begin all of the following exercises with your operated leg in this neutral position.

Lying on your back:

1. Roll your operated leg to the neutral position so that your knee cap and toes are pointed towards the ceiling.
2. Hold for a count of 10 seconds. Relax.
3. Do this as often as you can.

1. Keep your ankles moving to prevent them from getting stiff and to help the circulation. Move your feet in a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction. You can do this sitting or lying
2. Repeat 10 times every hour

Exercise 2

This exercise is to strengthen your thigh muscle.

Lying on your back:

1. Pull your toes up (operated leg) pointed towards the ceiling.
2. Tighten your thigh muscle.
3. Squeeze your buttocks.
4. Press the back of your knee down into the bed.
5. Hold for 5 seconds.
6. Relax.
7. Repeat the exercise 10 times.

Exercise 3

This exercise stretches the muscles on the back of your lower leg and ankle.

1. Loop your strap around the ball of your foot.
2. Keep your heel down and your knee straight. Do not lift your leg off the bed
3. Pull on the strap (you should feel a stretch along the back of your leg and calf).
4. Hold for 5 seconds.
5. Relax.
6. Repeat the exercise 10 times.

Exercise 4

Lying on your back with the leg in neutral position:

1. Bend your knee by sliding your heel on the bed.
2. You may use a plastic bag under your heel to help you slide.
3. You may use the strap to assist with the bending if you are having difficulties.
4. Repeat the exercise 10 times.

Exercise 5

This exercise is to strengthen your thigh muscle.

Lying on your back:

1. Place a rolled towel (6 inches in diameter or use a 48 oz. juice can) under your knee of the operated leg.
2. You may use the strap wrapped around your foot to assist with this exercise.
3. Pull your toes up and lift your heel off the bed straightening your knee. Your thigh must remain supported on the roll.
4. Hold your heel up for 5 seconds.
5. Relax.
6. Repeat the exercise 10 times.

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