Running after a total hip replacement can differ depending on individual conditions and the instruction of healthcare professionals. Some guidelines suggested by hip replacement surgeons like starting slowly with walking then moving to jogging on smooth surfaces, and evading high-impact actions that could wear out the joint can help. However, some sources firmly recommend against running after a total hip replacement as it may cause the new hip joint to wear out more hurriedly.
In this article, we will share expert advice on running after a total hip replacement from Dr. Aashish Arbat, M.Ch – Orthopaedics, FRCS a practicing hip replacement surgeon in Pune.
A hip replacement, known as hip arthroplasty, is a key surgery that can take you out of running for fairly some time. But is it possible to run afterwards? How soon can I run after hip replacement?
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Running After A Total Hip Replacement
The good news is that, generally, you can run after a hip replacement. To put it in simple words, a hip replacement gives you a newly-surfaced hip that can make it feel like you’ve reversed the clock a couple of decades in terms of how your body feels when you run. Dr. Aashish Arbat says that runners can generally start running back into their fitness routine about 3-6 months after a hip replacement.
You were running before your surgery? If so, you will possibly be able to resume running earlier in the course of your recovery than a former non-runner who had hip replacement surgery and wants to now take up running as a new runner. Basically, as per Dr. Arbat, a reputed hip replacement doctor in Pune, you can begin running once the pain related to surgical recovery has resolved and the hip’s supporting muscles have recovered their strength.
Jogging is a common practice followed by many to maintain an active lifestyle. Can I jog after hip replacement surgery is therefore a question that pops up in your mind.
Facing Problems in Running After Total Hip Replacement Surgery…
Light Jogging After Hip Replacement
Remember, everyone heals at their own pace. Accordingly, if you want to restart jogging, you should follow a rehabilitation plan that takes in gentle exercises to regain muscle strength in the hips. Always start slowly and work your way up to longer runs, and be careful of falls or jarring motions.
Are there any lifelong restrictions after a hip replacement? The answer is No there aren’t many lifelong post-op restrictions. Nevertheless, high-impact activities like long-distance running are usually discouraged. If you are a sports person, seek the advice of your doctor or physio if you want to return to high-impact sports.
Lifelong Restrictions After Hip Replacement
Certain precautions help avert complications and confirm the longevity of the hip replacement:
- Do not bend at the waist more than 90 degrees
- Avoid lifting your knees up past your hips
- Do not cross your legs
- Sidestep twisting or pivoting at the hip
- Do not rotate your feet too far inward or outward
Looking to know how to run on a treadmill after hip replacement?
Running on Treadmill After Hip Replacement
If you’re considering running on a treadmill post hip replacement, here are some general guidelines:
- Build up a routine
- Start slowly
- Warm up before running
- Listen to your body
- Build up leg muscles
- Pay attention to avoiding certain equipment
- Care after running
Running with ceramic hip replacement as explained by the most well-known Orthopedic Doctor in Pune.
Ceramic Hip Replacement And Running
Ceramic is a scratch-resistant, high-strength, low-friction material that helps minimize the wear and tear often reported with metal. Patients with ceramic hip implants can return to physical activities such as cycling within six weeks and running in less than six months.
Hip replacement surgery is one of the most usual and effective orthopedic surgeries accomplished today. These procedures have improved the quality of millions of lives. Many famous athletes resumed their career in sports post-surgery.
Famous Athletes with Hip Replacements
Famous athletes who have had hip replacements or hip resurfacing include:
- John Elway
- Gabrielle Reece
- Laird Hamilton
- Arnold Schwarzenegger
- Andy Murray
- Bo Jackson
- Alex Rodriguez
After hip replacement surgery, it’s recommended to engage in exercises that support in recovery while being mild on your new hip.
Best Exercise After Hip Replacement
Mentioned below are some recommended exercises:
- Recumbent Bicycle (Stationary Bike)
- Supine Hip External Rotator Stretch
- Hip Flexor “Thomas Stretch” – Modified
- Dual Leg Bridging
- Supine Marching
- Straight Leg Raise
- Hip Adduction Isometrics
- Sit-to-Stand from Chair
FAQ
Best Running Shoes After Hip Replacement
After hip replacement choose comfort and support over style. Your new hip needs proper support and cushion from your shoes to maximize your potential early on. Whether you walk or run; choose shoes accordingly.
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