Spokane Valley Specialist on When To Start Physical Therapy After a Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement surgery is often a necessary procedure for patients experiencing severe arthritis pain in the hips and those who have fractured their hip bones. However, Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, which offers physical therapy in Spokane Valley, WA, points out that surgery is only the first step to recovery. Physical therapy is a necessary subsequent step.
This PT practice shares when to start physical therapy after a hip replacement surgery and the duration of therapy most patients can expect.
Initial Physical Therapy Program After Spokane Valley Hip Replacement
According to Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, the time to start physical therapy after a hip replacement is soon — often within the first few days. Physical therapists like to begin therapy as soon as the patient’s pain is under control. Doing so streamlines total recovery and prevents blood clots from developing in response to underuse.
In the first week or two after surgery, physical therapists guide patients through exercises to help them return to daily life. Initial exercises give patients the strength and range of motion to transition from lying to sitting to standing, use a walker or crutches, and climb stairs.
Long-Term Physical Therapy Program
Many patients gain the strength and mobility to return to most daily activities within a few weeks of surgery. But this does not mean the pain and discomfort have completely subsided. Instead, many patients must complete long-term physical therapy to improve their range of motion further and prevent re-injury.
During this stage of recovery, patients complete stretches and targeted exercises to strengthen the hip muscles, enhance mobility of the hip joints, and relieve pain. Physical therapists recommend completing therapy sessions at least a few times a week and provide at-home exercises to complete between sessions.
A long-term physical therapy program in Spokane Valley may continue for several months after a hip replacement.
Schedule Physical Therapy in Spokane Valley, WA, Today
The physical therapists at Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine in Spokane Valley, WA, advise patients when to start physical therapy after a hip replacement, then guide them through long-term PT programs for full recovery. This clinic provides direct access to physical therapy, using treatments ranging from manual therapy to blood flow restriction to help patients recover from various ailments.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine at 509-928-3443 or fill out the clinic’s contact form online.
