If you smoke, try to give up at least six months prior to surgery, as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
If you lead an active lifestyle, engage in regular strength training within your comfort level to build up resilience, aiming for high intensity with a low repetition.
If you are overweight, consider losing weight. Excess weight can put additional stress on the hip joint and potentially impact the outcome of the surgery. However, don’t lose weight too rapidly just before your surgery, as this will lead to a sudden reduction in muscle mass instead of fat reduction.
Prehabilitation can also help – these exercises focus on strengthening the muscles surrounding the hip joint, improving range of motion and enhancing overall physical fitness. Prehabilitation can help prepare your body for surgery and promote a smoother recovery.
"Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of rehabilitation. Exercises will focus on IMPROVING STRENGTH AND BALANCE." - Professor Paul Lee
Are there any lifestyle modifications to be aware of to ensure the longevity of a hip replacement?
Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the long-term success of a hip replacement. However, the type, make and quality of hip replacement will make a big difference here. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming and cycling can help improve strength, flexibility and overall joint health without putting excessive stress on the hip.
Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can support overall joint health and promote healing. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains provides essential nutrients for tissue repair and bone health. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is particularly important for bone strength and can help prevent osteoporosis, while collagen supplementation can support healing and recovery.
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