Rehab after THR: Exercises, Physical Therapy, and Milestones to Track Progress
Medicine Made Simple
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is only the first step toward regaining a pain-free, active life. Rehabilitation—through exercises, physiotherapy, and gradual milestones—is what determines long-term success. This blog explains in simple terms what to expect during recovery, the types of exercises that help, the timeline of progress, and how to stay motivated. Whether you are a patient or a family member, you will understand the journey of healing and how to support it effectively.
Total Hip Replacement- What to expect?
Surgery often feels like the big event in a patient’s journey, but for hip replacement, recovery truly begins the day after the operation. Rehabilitation is not a quick fix; it is a step-by-step process that strengthens muscles, restores mobility, and trains your body to move safely with the new joint.
For patients and families, knowing what to expect during recovery reduces anxiety. It also helps patients stay motivated, especially during tough days when progress feels slow. This article will guide you through the rehabilitation process, from the hospital stay to long-term milestones.
Why Rehab Is Essential
A hip replacement gives you a new joint, but that joint is only as good as the muscles and tissues supporting it. Without proper rehab, patients risk stiffness, weakness, and poor balance. Physiotherapy ensures:
- The hip joint moves smoothly.
- Surrounding muscles regain strength.
- The risk of blood clots is reduced.
- Patients learn safe ways to walk, climb stairs, and sit.
Skipping or neglecting rehab can undo the benefits of surgery.
Early Recovery in Hospital
Most patients begin rehab the day after surgery. A physiotherapist will visit your hospital room to teach simple movements such as ankle pumps, knee bends, and gentle leg lifts. These movements prevent blood clots and start rebuilding muscle strength.
Patients are usually encouraged to stand with support within 24 hours. Walking with a walker or crutches may feel difficult at first, but it helps circulation and boosts confidence.
Nurses and therapists also train patients on safe ways to sit, get out of bed, and use the toilet without stressing the new hip.
First Six Weeks at Home
The first six weeks after surgery are critical. During this phase, patients practice daily exercises given by their physiotherapist. Examples include gentle leg raises, heel slides, and hip abductions (moving the leg outward). The focus is on rebuilding strength and preventing stiffness.
Walking practice is increased gradually. At first, patients walk short distances indoors, then progress to outdoor walks. Most patients still use a walker or crutches but may transition to a cane by the end of six weeks.
Patients are also advised to avoid certain movements, such as bending deeply, twisting the hip, or sitting on very low chairs, to reduce dislocation risk.
Three to Six Months
By three months, many patients notice a major difference in their pain and mobility. Walking aids are often no longer needed. Physiotherapists introduce more challenging exercises, such as resistance training, mini squats, and balance activities.
Climbing stairs becomes easier, and patients often resume driving after clearance from their surgeon. Some can return to desk jobs within this period. However, high-impact activities such as running are still discouraged.
Milestone: Most patients can walk comfortably for 20–30 minutes without support by this stage.
Six Months to One Year
At six months, the new hip feels natural for many patients. Activities like swimming, cycling, and light trekking may be resumed with medical approval. Patients who followed physiotherapy closely often regain nearly full mobility.
Strength training becomes more important to ensure long-term joint protection. Yoga and stretching can also be helpful, provided patients avoid extreme positions that stress the hip.
By one year, most patients feel fully confident in their new hip and can enjoy hobbies, travel, and family activities without pain.
Exercises That Help Recovery
Physiotherapists usually divide exercises into three stages:
- Early exercises (first weeks): ankle pumps, quadriceps tightening, heel slides.
- Intermediate exercises (6–12 weeks): standing hip abductions, mini squats, stationary cycling.
- Advanced exercises (beyond 3 months): resistance bands, swimming, brisk walking.
Each stage builds strength and prepares the hip for more demanding activities. Patients should never skip ahead without guidance, as this may cause injury.
Tracking Progress with Milestones
Recovery is not the same for everyone. However, doctors and therapists often track progress using milestones:
- Day 1–2: Stand with support, begin gentle exercises.
- Week 2: Walk indoors with walker.
- Week 6: Transition to cane, walk short distances outdoors.
- Month 3: Walk independently for 20–30 minutes.
- Month 6: Resume swimming, cycling.
- Month 12: Full confidence in hip for daily activities.
If patients fall behind these milestones, extra therapy may be advised.
Challenges Patients Face
Rehab is not always easy. Patients often struggle with pain, lack of motivation, or fear of damaging the new hip. Support from family and friends makes a big difference. Encouragement, reminders to do exercises, and help with daily chores can keep patients on track.
Another challenge is financial cost. Physiotherapy sessions and walking aids may feel expensive, but they are an investment in long-term health.
Life After Rehab
Once rehabilitation is complete, patients often say the surgery was life-changing. They can walk longer, sleep better, and enjoy activities they avoided for years. However, it is important to maintain healthy habits—regular exercise, weight control, and safe movement techniques—to protect the new hip for decades.
Rehab is not just about returning to normal; it is about building a stronger, healthier version of yourself.
Conclusion
If you or your loved one is preparing for hip replacement, remember that surgery is only half the journey. Commit to a rehabilitation plan with your physiotherapist, track your milestones, and celebrate small victories along the way. Book a consultation with a rehabilitation specialist today to create a program tailored to your recovery needs.
References
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Hip Replacement Recovery
Mayo Clinic. Hip replacement rehabilitation
NHS UK. Hip replacement recovery
*Information contained in this article is not intended or designed to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other professional health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or advice in relation thereto.
