HIP ARTHROSCOPY RECOVERY: PHYSIOTHERAPY & REHABILITATION
HIP PHYSIOTHERAPY REHABILITATION IN MELBOURNE
Hip Arthroscopy is a relatively new procedure, where specialist surgeons are performing keyhole surgery on the hip joint. This is a highly technical procedure and the correct hip physiotherapy recovery and rehabilitation following hip arthroscopy is of utmost importance.
At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists work very closely with hip specialists, and have specific training to help you with your recovery and rehabilitate your hip following hip arthroscopy surgery.
It doesn’t matter if you are planning on returning to sport, work or your day-to-day life, completing thorough rehabilitation will get you better hip arthroscopy recovery results, and allow you to feel better, faster.
A pre-operative appointment is highly recommended to get a head start on gluteal muscle function. On average, it takes approximately 12-16 weeks for the initial recovery following hip arthroscopic surgery, though this is variable depending on the exact nature of your hip joint status and the exact surgery performed. It can take 4-18 months for full hip arthroscopy recovery.
The hip arthroscopy physio rehabilitation focuses on the deep hip external rotator muscle endurance, proprioception/balance, core endurance and gluteal muscle strength. Often, remedial massage is required to release muscle tension, once the hip joint healing is nearing completion.
Thorough hip arthroscopy recovery and rehabilitation involves specific physiotherapy, tailored to your exact surgery. You must be careful that your hip arthroscopic surgery is not treated like a traditional hip replacement, as you may become very sore, very quickly.
Your rehabilitation has a very large impact on your overall recovery, so make sure you see a physiotherapist with expertise in hip arthroscopy recovery and training in this field. Please call Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy to find a suitable physiotherapist in your area.
HIP ARTHROSCOPY RECOVERY & REHABILITATION
At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists can assist with recovery and rehabilitation following hip arthroscopy for:
- Labral Tears/ Repair
- Ligametum Teres Tears
- Femoral-Acetabular Impingement (FAI)
- FOC (Femoral Ostectomy)
- CAM & PINCER Deformities
- Gluteal Tendon pathology/tears
- Psoas Tendon pathology/tendinopathy
- Synovitic debridement
- Trochanteric Bursitis
- Lateral Hip Pain
- Labral Debridement
- Osteitis Pubis Syndrome
The team at Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy have a special interest in hip arthroscopy physiotherapy rehabilitation, and have undergone extra training to allow them to provide effective and safe rehabilitation. To assist with your rehabilitation, please bring to your appointment your operation report and any intra-operative photos that your arthroscopy surgeon may have provided you with. Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy are very happy to recommend a surgeon best suited to your needs. Please call if you have any queries regarding your hip pain or rehabilitation.
To book a Pre-Operative or Post-Operative Hip Arthroscopy Physiotherapy appointment at Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy, please Book Online or call the Essendon, Malvern East, St Kilda or Blackburn clinics.
FAQs
How long does recovery typically take after hip arthroscopy?
Full hip arthroscopy recovery can take 4-6 months on average, though this varies depending on the specific procedure performed. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within 6-8 weeks. However, it may take up to 18 months to regain full strength and range of motion.
What does physiotherapy involve after hip arthroscopy?
Hip physio in our Melbourne clinic typically includes:
- Range of motion exercises for the hip joint
- Strengthening exercises for hip muscles, especially the gluteals
- Core and abdominal strengthening
- Balance and proprioception training
- Gait training to restore normal walking patterns
- Gradual return to sport-specific movements
Your hip physiotherapist will customise a program based on your specific surgery and goals.
When can I start weight-bearing after surgery?
This depends on the procedure, but many patients beginl weight-bearing with crutches immediately after surgery. Full weight-bearing without crutches, s often allowed by 2-4 weeks post-op. Always follow your surgeon's specific instructions on hip arthroscopy recovery. This isn't a one size fits all situation, so make sure you're clear in your post op hip arthroscopy instructions.
What precautions should I take during hip arthroscopy recovery?
Common precautions include:
- Avoiding excessive hip flexion and internal rotation for 6-8 weeks
- No heavy lifting or high-impact activities for at least 1-3 months, again this is surgery specific.
- Using crutches or a cane as directed to protect the hip, to stop you limping. This is often very short term only.
- Avoiding crossing your legs or sitting in low chairs for a few weeks post operation.
- Sleeping with a pillow between your knees as required, though generally only for a few weeks.
How can I manage pain and swelling after surgery?
Use ice packs frequently, take prescribed pain medications as directed, elevate your leg when resting, and perform gentle range of motion exercises. Some swelling is normal but should gradually decrease.
When can I return to sports after hip arthroscopy?
Most patients can begin a gradual return to low-impact sports around 2-4 months post-op. Return to high-impact or contact sports may take 5-6 months or longer. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will assess your hip arthroscopy recovery progress and clear you for specific activities. Some people recover really well and are ahead of schedule, and some take longer. It is highly variable!
How can I optimise my recovery after hip arthroscopy?
To promote optimal healing:
- Follow all post-operative instructions carefully
- Attend all physiotherapy appointments
- Do your prescribed home exercises consistently
- Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated
- Get adequate rest and avoid overexertion
- Gradually increase activity as directed by your care team
Remember that recovery timelines can vary. Work closely with your surgeon and physiotherapist to ensure safe progression through your hip arthroscopy recovery and rehabilitation program.