How Physiotherapy Supports Recovery from Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is a life-changing procedure for those dealing with hip pain and limited mobility, but the recovery process requires careful planning and professional guidance. Physiotherapy is essential for a smooth recovery, helping patients regain strength, restore mobility, and improve overall function.

Here’s a detailed look at how physiotherapy aids post-surgery recovery and the specific exercises and funding options available for those on their journey to renewed independence.

Key Physiotherapy Techniques for Post-Hip Replacement Recovery

1. Strengthening Exercises
   • Following hip surgery, muscles around the hip often become weak due to disuse. Strength training targets muscles in the hip, thigh, and lower body to rebuild support, increase stability, and prevent re-injury. Exercises often begin with low-impact activities, like seated leg raises or gentle bridges, eventually progressing to more challenging routines as strength improves.
2. Range of Motion Exercises
   • Stiffness is common after hip replacement, and maintaining flexibility is key to a successful recovery. Range of motion exercises, such as knee-to-chest stretches or hip rotations, help prevent scar tissue buildup and ensure proper hip movement. These exercises are usually performed with a therapist’s guidance to avoid overstressing the joint.
3. Walking and Gait Training
   • Regaining proper walking technique is crucial, especially when transitioning from using assistive devices like crutches or walkers. A physiotherapist guides patients through walking exercises, correcting posture and ensuring balance to promote a safe and natural gait pattern. Gait training is particularly helpful in restoring confidence and preventing falls.
4. Balance and Stability Training
   • Following surgery, hip stability may be compromised, increasing the risk of falls. Balance exercises like standing on one leg (with support) or using a balance board can gradually restore the body’s natural equilibrium, enhancing confidence in movement and daily activities.
5. Pain Management Techniques
   • Post-surgical pain can be challenging, but physiotherapists use techniques like heat or cold therapy, gentle stretching, and manual therapy to manage discomfort. Pain management techniques aim to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and relax tight muscles.

Benefits of Physiotherapy After Hip Replacement Surgery

Physiotherapy brings structure and support to the hip replacement recovery process, providing personalized guidance that allows patients to progress safely. Benefits include:

• Reduced Pain and Inflammation: Techniques like manual therapy and targeted stretching reduce discomfort, making daily activities more manageable.
• Improved Mobility and Functionality: With gradual strength-building and flexibility exercises, physiotherapy helps patients achieve natural, pain-free movement.
• Faster Return to Daily Activities: Physiotherapy’s structured approach accelerates recovery time, enabling patients to return to work, hobbies, and daily routines more quickly and confidently.
• Enhanced Independence: By improving balance, stability, and gait, physiotherapy helps patients regain independence in walking, climbing stairs, and other mobility-related tasks.

Quick Relief Exercises for Post-Surgery Recovery

1. Ankle Pumps
   • Gently flex and point your toes while lying down to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. Repeat for several minutes each day.
2. Heel Slides
   • Lying on your back, slowly slide your heel toward your buttocks, then slide it back out. This helps maintain knee and hip flexibility without stressing the hip joint.
3. Quad Sets
   • Tighten your thigh muscle by pressing your knee down toward the floor while keeping your leg straight. Hold for 5 seconds and release, repeating 10–15 times.
4. Mini Squats
   • With support, bend your knees slightly and hold for a few seconds before standing back up. This strengthens the lower body muscles and promotes balance.

Funding Options for Post-Surgical Physiotherapy

1. NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
   • For eligible participants, NDIS may cover physiotherapy if hip replacement surgery significantly affects daily living and mobility. Funding can be used for regular physiotherapy sessions and required assistive devices.
2. Medicare’s Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan
   • Medicare’s CDM plan provides up to five subsidized allied health sessions per year. To qualify, patients need a referral from their GP, which can be used to access physiotherapy for post-surgical recovery.
3. Private Health Insurance
   • Many private health plans cover physiotherapy under extras policies. Check with your provider to see if your policy includes post-surgical physiotherapy and equipment needs.
4. Home Care Packages (HCP)
   • For those over 65, HCPs may provide funding for allied health services, including physiotherapy. This funding helps seniors manage recovery from hip replacement surgery while aging in place.

Frequently Asked Questions About Physiotherapy for Hip Replacement Recovery

• How soon should I start physiotherapy after surgery?
  • Physiotherapy often begins within a day or two post-surgeries in the hospital and continues as part of an outpatient or home-based program. Health Next Door provides mobile physiotherapy meaning we can do the session in the comfort of your own home!
• How long will I need physiotherapy?
  • The duration varies, but many people continue physiotherapy for 6–12 weeks to achieve optimal recovery and strength.
• Can I do exercises at home?
  • Yes, a physiotherapist can provide a home exercise plan, but supervised sessions are essential early in recovery to ensure proper technique and avoid injury.

Physiotherapy is a vital component of post-hip replacement recovery, helping patients regain mobility, improve strength, and reduce pain.

With professional guidance, tailored exercises, and support from funding options like NDIS or Medicare, patients can enjoy a faster, smoother path to full recovery and restored independence.