What is it?
Total hip replacement (THR) is one of the most successful orthopaedic surgeries. Physiotherapy before and after surgery maximises recovery speed and quality. Pre-habilitation (physiotherapy before surgery) significantly improves post-operative outcomes.
Common causes
- Hip replacement is performed for end-stage hip osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures
Signs and symptoms
- Post-surgery: wound pain, swelling, reduced hip movement
- Weakness in hip muscles (especially abductors)
- Altered walking pattern
- Risk of dislocation if precautions are not followed
- Stiffness in the early post-operative period
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- Day 1: sitting over the edge of the bed, standing with walking aid
- Week 1–6: gait training, hip precaution education, gentle strengthening
- Week 6–12: progressive strengthening, balance training, stair climbing
- 3–6 months: return to activities — walking, swimming, cycling
- Pre-surgical prehabilitation: strengthen quads, glutes, and hip abductors before surgery
What you can do at home
- Follow hip precautions strictly for 6–12 weeks as instructed by your surgeon
- Perform ankle pumps every hour to prevent blood clots
- Keep a pillow between your knees when sleeping for the first 6 weeks
- Do prescribed exercises daily — recovery quality depends on your participation
When to visit VPARC
Visit VPARC ideally 4–6 weeks before your scheduled hip replacement for prehabilitation. Post-surgery, physiotherapy should begin the day after your operation.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Post-Surgery Rehabilitation in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.