Move Your Hips After Hip Arthroscopy
Overview
Arthroscopy, a procedure using a small fiber-optic camera device, has revolutionized hip joint surgery.
Often recommended for athletes or those with degenerative arthritis, it is used to remove damaged tissue or splintered-off cartilage floating around the hip joint or to reattach structures within the hip.
Procedure Details
The Arthroscopic Procedure
A surgeon uses a small incision to insert a tiny camera into the hip, so that the damage around the joint is visible and whatever is causing pain and dysfunction in the patient can be fixed.
In the past, an invasive procedure (and much larger incision) would have been necessary to treat many hip problems, but arthroscopy can achieve the same results with easier recovery time and less chance of complications.
Outpatient Surgery
Hip arthroscopy is an outpatient procedure, meaning that you will be sent home within hours after the surgery.
- Your physician may recommend using crutches, resting, and applying ice packs for a short time to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Within a few weeks, you will feel well enough to incorporate some gentle movement of the hip into your recuperative routine.
Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation
Importance of Early Rehabilitation
It is important to start a rehabilitation program as soon as possible, because research suggests that early movement speeds healing while lack of movement can lead to lasting problems.
The rehabilitation sequence will be dictated by the specific tissues affected by the surgery.
– The “Window of Opportunity”
Working with us, you can take advantage of what some experts have dubbed the “window of opportunity” after hip arthroscopy.
This is when physical therapy makes the muscles around the joint stronger and before your body re-creates the corrosive fluids that caused your hip problems in the first place.
– Why is this specific time important?
Because your surgeon has just removed inflamed tissues and extra fluid that have affected the hip joint, you may find yourself pain-free for the first time in years.
This is a perfect time to increase flexibility and function in the hip and strengthen the surrounding muscles, especially in the case of degenerative arthritis, whose symptoms may reappear in time.
While the procedure itself addresses the physical issues within the joint, the success of your long-term recovery hinges on the rehabilitation process.
Engaging in a structured rehab program not only helps you regain strength and mobility but also significantly reduces the risk of complications or recurring issues.
Enhancing Recovery Through Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
After surgery, your hip joint is vulnerable as it heals. Without proper rehabilitation, scar tissue can form, and muscles around the joint may weaken, leading to stiffness and a reduction in joint function.
A guided rehabilitation program ensures that you gradually and safely restore movement, preventing these potential setbacks.
– Promoting Faster Healing
Research shows that early and appropriate movement can speed up the healing process.
By starting physical therapy soon after surgery, you can improve blood flow to the area, reduce inflammation, and expedite tissue repair.
This proactive approach minimizes downtime and helps you return to your daily activities more quickly.
– Restoring Strength and Flexibility
Rehabilitation focuses on more than just healing the surgical site; it’s about restoring overall hip function.
Strengthening the muscles around the hip and improving flexibility are key to maintaining stability and preventing future injuries.
A well-structured program will target the specific muscles affected by your surgery, ensuring that your hip becomes as strong and flexible as possible.
– Achieving Long-Term Success
The ultimate goal of rehabilitation is to enable you to return to your previous level of activity, whether that means returning to sports, work, or simply enjoying daily life without pain.
By committing to your rehabilitation plan, you can maximize the benefits of your surgery and ensure the best possible outcome for your hip health.
Working closely with your physical therapist will give you the best chance of regaining full function and preventing future issues.
Rehabilitation Timeline
On average, the rehabilitation process takes around six weeks, but the length and intensity of your postoperative rehabilitation will depend upon exactly what was accomplished—and why—through your surgery.
Regardless, we can assist you to achieve your best chance of a full recovery after this revolutionary and effective type of joint surgery.
Book A Physical Therapy Appointment Today
At The Jackson Clinics, we’re dedicated to helping you recover quickly and effectively after hip arthroscopy.
Whether you’re an athlete aiming to get back in the game or someone dealing with arthritis, our personalized rehabilitation programs are designed to restore your strength and mobility.
Don’t wait—contact us today to schedule your consultation. Let us partner with you on your path to a pain-free, active life.
Did you know you have Direct Access* to Physical Therapy? No referral, no problem!
