The Value of Physio Before Hip Surgery
If you have been experiencing hip pain, it can be quite a shock being told that you might require hip replacement surgery. This is a significant procedure involving the biggest joint in the body.
The good news is that hip replacement surgery has come a long way since Sir John Charnley performed the first bone-cement arthroplasty in 1958, meaning the procedure is now much less invasive and recovery is much quicker.
Whether surgery is likely or not, the idea of doing exercise can be very difficult for many people. Particularly if you are already living with a painful condition. But with the right support and guidance, it is possible to make improvements and even sometimes avoid surgery altogether.
Physio Can Buy You Time
Paul from Physio Remedies often works with people with hip pain - many with articular cartilage damage. Sometimes this is caused by genetics or osteoarthritis, but often worsening over time through wear and tear, and overuse. Additionally, the hips can start failing with age.
“They are advised by their doctor to go and get some physio. Then, if things don't change, we may need to think of a replacement,” says Paul.
“Most people don’t want surgery if it can be avoided. So, we look at what we can do to limit that and buy them some time”
“We look at exercises for strengthening, controlling the hip and managing the lumbar spine influence on that area - because of the link between them. This might result in saving it for a few weeks to months or even years.”
Preparing For Hip Surgery
For those people who are awaiting a planned surgery, then physiotherapy beforehand (prehabilitation) can help to prepare the body for post-surgery. It can also give you an idea of what to expect and what to do in the early stages. Post-surgery rehabilitation can be quite arduous - but it will be much less problematic if work has already been done before surgery.
Professional tennis player, Andy Murray is a great example of what can be achieved, with the right attitude and commitment to prehabilitation. He now is back competing at major events following his recovery from not just one, but two hip operations.
Ros’s Hip Surgery Prehab - with Physio Paul
One of Paul’s patients, Ros was recommended for a hip replacement after a bad bike crash left her with post-traumatic arthritis in her right hip. Formerly Ros was a long distance runner and walker, but now, aged 78, enjoys long country rides and racing time trials, as well as riding around London on her Brompton!
Ros competing in the Mallorca 1/2 Ironman, 2013
Eight years after the crash, when competing at a triathlon World Championships in Vancouver, she realised that running was becoming sorer and sorer. On limping to the finish, she decided that something needed to be done.
Before the hip surgery, Paul helped Ros with some targeted exercises to ensure her recovery was as good as possible. This included some exercises in the gym as well as the pool to build up strength, which she was able to do at the Lansdowne. Paul also helped with rehab immediately following surgery - but certainly aided by her prehab, Ros was able to get on her static bike just a month after her surgery.
A couple of years since surgery now - Ros is preparing for a Lands End to John O’Groats ride - aiming to complete this in 10 days.
Can We Help You Too?
Our physios can provide exercises that are tailored to your needs. These will be designed to give you ease in movement. “It is finding that window of pain-free movement - even if that is just being able to comfortably walk a few yards. We improve on that by working together to go a bit further,” says Paul.
“Some people may need some support when doing the exercise or we will need to make adaptations. Even just standing still - it may be a case of being taught how to adjust that position.”
Of course, committing to a plan of weekly exercise can be challenging - especially when you are already in discomfort. But the feedback and encouragement from your physio will encourage you to stick with it.
If you have been recommended physiotherapy to help manage your hip condition, then get in touch to book an appointment.
