Physical Therapy and Exercise for the Hip

You may be prescribed a number of physical therapy exercises. Physical therapy is simply an exercise program that gently stretches and strengthens specific muscles and joints. The exercises you may perform are gentle, range of motion (stretching) exercises designed to restore movement and strength to your joint and to promote blood flow for healing.

It is important to stay proactive in your physical therapy since it can have a direct impact on the total outcome of your surgery. Remember to stay diligent and don’t give up. Ask for help if you need it. Friends, family members, and even neighbors can be helpful during your recovery, especially if you ask for their assistance before your surgery.

Physical therapy, which usually lasts between 4 and 6 weeks, is a very important role in the recovery process. A physical therapist may demonstrate a variety of low-impact exercises designed to increase the strength and mobility of your hip joint. However, you should only perform the exercises that are ordered by your surgeon.

The following are examples of exercises that your surgeon may prescribe.

ONLY PERFORM THE EXERCISES PRESCRIBED BY YOUR DOCTOR

Hip Physical Therapy Exercises

Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip- Single Leg Step-Up

1. Single Leg Step-Up

With the foot of involved leg on step, straighten that leg. Return. Use a step or book. Height of step will depend on your strength. Start Low. You may exercise good leg as well. Repeat the recommended number of times.

ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip-Hip Flexion

2. Hip Flexion

Standing, march in place. If needed, support yourself with a standard object such as a chair. Repeat the recommended number of times.

ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip-Heel Slide

3. Heel Slide

The heel slide is performed while lying on your back. Bend at the knee and gently slide the heel of your surgical leg towards your body in one continuous movement, remembering to keep your knee in line with your body. Repeat the recommended number of times.

ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip-Short Arc Quads

4. Short Arc Quads

Lie on back, place a towel under thigh. Lift foot, straightening knee. Do not raise thigh off roll. Repeat the recommended number of times.

ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip-Hip Abduction and Adduction Exercise

5. Hip Abduction and Adduction Exercise

Lie on back, slide legs out to side. Keep toes pointed up and knees straight. Bring legs back to starting point. Repeat the recommended number of times.

ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Physical Therapy and Exercises for the Hip-Ball Squeeze

6. Ball Squeeze

Place ball between knees, slide heels together, squeeze ball for a count of five. Repeat the recommended number of times.

ALL EXERCISES SHOULD BE PERFORMED AS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR SURGEON, AFTER PROPER DEMONSTRATION BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

All patient education materials are provided by OrthoPatientEd.com and have been reviewed by our Advisory Board of leading Orthopedic Surgeons to ensure accuracy. All materials are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from your orthopedic surgeon. Any medical decisions should be made after consulting a qualified physician.

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Orthopaedic Associates of Marlborough

  • Contact: contactus@orthomarlborough.com
    Billing: billingdept@orthomarlborough.com

Monday 8:00am - 7:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday 7:30am - 11:00am

The office is generally closed for lunch from 12-1 daily.
*Office hours are subject to change without notice.

  • Marlborough Location
    Marlborough Medical Building

    65 Fremont Street | Marlborough, MA 01752
    Telephone: 508-485-3665 | Fax: 508-485-0899

  • Northborough Location
    Carewell Urgent Care Building

    333 Southwest Cutoff | Northborough, MA 01532
    Telephone: 508-485-3665
    Appointments call UMASS scheduling: 855-862-7763

  • Westborough Location
    UMass Memorial Orthopedics

    154 East Main Street | Westborough, MA 01581
    Telephone: 508-485-3665
    Appointments call UMASS scheduling: 855-862-7763

ORTHOPEDIC SERVICES

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To schedule an appointment, please call (508) 485-3665 OR Make an Appointment Request online.

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