Before joint replacement, the rehabilitation team should evaluate the patient for muscle strength in all limbs, ability to perform transfers, ambulatory status, and range of motion in the lower limbs. The aim of this preoperative phase of rehabilitation is to educate the patient in all exercise protocols, postoperative precautions, deep breathing and coughing and proper use of walking aids.

 

Postoperative rehabilitation includes optimizing musculoskeletal function and educating the patient to avoid overstressing the prosthetic joint.

 

 

LYING ON YOUR BACK
HIP ABDUCTION
Slide the leg sideways as far as possible. Then return to the starting position.  The knees should be kept straight, on the bed. Toes should be pointing to the ceiling.
HIP FLEXION WITH STRAIGHT KNEE
	Keeping the knee straight, lift the leg a few inches. Hold for 5 seconds and then lower slowly. Repeat 5 times.
HIP FLEXION WITH BENT KNEE
Lie on your back, slowly slide your heel towards your buttocks as far as you can and hold for 5 seconds. Slide heel back to starting position and repeat 5 times.
KNEE EXTENSION
	Place a rolled pillow under the thighs so the knees are comfortably bent. The heels rest on the bed. Try to straighten each knee. Hold for a few seconds and then return. Repeat five times.
STANDING
HIP ABDUCTION
Make Sure your hip, knee and foot are pointing straight forward.  Keep your body straight. Move the leg out to the side hold for five seconds and slowly lower your leg so your foot is back on the floor. Repeat five times
KNEE RAISES
	Lift the leg which has been operated upon towards your chest. DO NOT lift your knee higher than your waist.  Hold for five seconds and put your leg down. Repeat five times.
HIP EXTENSIONS
Move your operated leg straight backwards, hold for five seconds, and return.  Keep your knees and back straight.  Foot should clear the floor.