Your hip replacement can serve you well for decades with the right care and habits. This guide shares expert-backed strategies to protect your new joint, maintain mobility, and support long-term hip health.
A hip replacement can feel like a second chance at movement. It's normal to be feeling excited, nervous and confused as to what life after a hip replacement can look like— especially when thinking about hip replacement recovery time. Once the pain fades and mobility returns, the focus shifts from recovery to maintenance. The good news is that a few mindful habits can help your new hip last for many active, comfortable years.
Movement is the key to keeping your prosthetic hip strong. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling keep blood flowing and muscles engaged without straining the joint. These low-impact options support you as you move through total hip replacement recovery week by week.
If your schedule feels packed, even short walks throughout the day make a difference. The goal is to stay active in ways that feel good and are sustainable.
Muscle strength is your best protection against wear and tear. Focus on your glutes, thighs, and core to support your joint alignment. Exercises like step-ups, clamshells, or bridges keep these areas strong and stable. These movements also function well as post hip replacement exercises that support ongoing joint health.
If you’re unsure where to start, a Luna Physical Therapy provider can design a personalized routine and visit you in your home. They’ll monitor your form, adjust intensity, and ensure every move supports your long-term recovery.
Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce pressure on your prosthetic hip. Pair a balanced diet with low-impact exercise to keep your body strong and your joints supported. When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor and avoid crossing your legs, which can strain the hip over time. These day-to-day choices support lifetime precautions after hip replacement without feeling restrictive.
Periodic follow-up appointments to monitor your hip replacement’s integrity, even years after surgery is recommended. These check-ins ensure any small issues are caught early and addressed quickly.
While high-impact workouts may feel tempting, your hip will thank you for low-impact alternatives. Swimming, yoga, and Pilates build flexibility without overloading your prosthesis. If you enjoy sports like golf or tennis, ease back into them with professional guidance and proper warm-ups. This gradual return is especially helpful for managing hip surgery recovery time for elderly bodies.
Even years after your operation, checking in with a physical therapist can help fine-tune your exercise routine and maintain proper mechanics. Luna makes this easy by offering in-home visits that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. You’ll receive one-on-one attention, guidance on long-term strengthening, and practical strategies for lasting joint health. This continued care aligns well with hip replacement recovery tips that can support long-term comfort and stability.
Caring for your hip replacement is about consistency, not perfection. With a mix of movement, mindfulness, and professional support, your new joint can serve you well for decades to come.
Senior Clinical Program Manager
Ken Charleston, PT, DPT, is a strategic leader in the physical therapy field with over a decade of experience in the health and wellness industry. He has clinical expertise in physical therapy, manual therapy, orthopedic rehabilitation, and injury prevention. Ken has held leadership roles at Luna Physical Therapy and Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, where he has driven both clinical and operational excellence. He currently serves as Senior Clinical Program Manager at Luna. Ken holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Dominican University New York and an MBA from Walden University, combining clinical and business expertise to support high-quality care delivery.
Physical therapy, delivered.
Luna is the nation’s leading provider of in-home outpatient physical therapy, trusted by more than 85,000 patients and thousands of referring physicians across the country. With over 1.2 million visits completed and a 99.7% patient satisfaction rate, Luna delivers high-quality, personalized care directly to the patient's home. Recognized by Forbes and Fast Company for innovation in musculoskeletal care, Luna partners with dozens of healthcare organizations to make exceptional PT more accessible and convenient.
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