Preparation & Recovery from Hip Replacement

Preparation & Recovery from Hip Replacement

By Ron Krayewski

 

hip-replacement*Don’t settle for your family doctor’s referral, but interview (over the internet) several orthopaedic surgeons, and choose one that performs 100+ hip replacements per year.

*Find out where the site of the incision is to be. Each of front, side or rear entry has it’s advantages and disadvantages with muscles detached, possible dislocations, and complexity of the surgery.

*Know the name and type of prosthesis that is to be used, as some are better than others with greater ranges of motion for active individuals but also cost more than brand X. Do remember that the prosthesis becomes part of your body so don’t go cheap.

*Know the exact cost of the entire procedure and not just some random number, depending on possible complications.

*Choose a quality hospital that will supply you with good care and know the amount of time you will spend there, barring any complications.

*Exercise the injured hip to strengthen the musculature surrounding the hip joint to ensure a smooth operation and a speedy recovery. Do exercise both hips to avoid muscle imbalances.

*Get up on your feet as soon as possible after your surgery and walk with the aid of a walker.

*Rest and recuperate for two weeks to allow your body to heal. Apply ice to the injured area and walk as much as possible. You may be able to return to some light duties during week 2.

*During week 3 & 4 put your injured joint through various ranges of motion and stretch the limb as per instructions from your surgeon as well as your physiotherapist. Shuck the walker for a cane with 4 little feet.

*Apply light ankle weights to the injured leg to strengthen the hip joint.

*In weeks 5-8, attend a commercial gym where you can isolate the leg that was weakened from the surgery; go slow and low with the weights.

*Week 9 & 10 may see you performing some exercises that you initiated prior to surgery.

Balance exercises are crucial and can be as simple as standing only on the injured limb for brief periods.

*During week 11 & 12 you may be walking somewhat normal, without the aid of a cane.

*Do visit superseniorhipreplacementvideo.com for more complete details on my own personal journey through hip replacement. What you will learn is priceless.

(Ed. Note: Ron Krayewski is a Senior Strength & Conditioning Specialist in Ajijic. His surgery took place on June 8, 2013 and his recovery was completed in record time. Being a martial artist, he was throwing full power kicks into a bag at week nine. His goal is to return to Thailand in December, where he will train at his Muay Thai camp, going three 3-minute rounds with his trainer in 120 degree heat. He is 66 years old.)


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