How effective is post-operative rehabilitation for hip fracture?

A hip fracture and the operation to repair it can make standing, walking, transfers and self-care difficult. Rehabilitation addresses these tasks directly. It may begin with bed mobility, sitting balance and safe transfers, then progress to walking with an aid, leg strengthening, balance practice and activities such as dressing or using stairs.

The team considers pain, the type of repair, weight-bearing instructions, previous mobility, vision, confidence and other health conditions. Improvement is often seen as greater safety and participation in daily routines, not only as stronger muscles. Fatigue and fear of falling can continue even while the hip is healing.

Use the walking aid and weight-bearing method prescribed by the team, even when the leg starts to feel stronger. Practise transfers and exercises regularly in short, manageable sessions, and keep pathways clear at home. Supportive footwear, suitable seating and help with bathing or stairs can reduce avoidable strain.

Tell the therapist about dizziness, confusion, pain during movement, breathlessness or difficulty managing at home. The plan may need coordination with nursing, occupational therapy, family support or community services. Do not add strenuous lifting or a new balance challenge without guidance.

Contact the surgical team for a wound that becomes red or drains, fever, increasing hip pain, new leg swelling, or a clear decline in walking ability. Seek urgent help after a fall, sudden severe pain, a shortened or unusually turned leg, chest pain, or breathing difficulty. New confusion or marked drowsiness also deserves prompt medical attention.

Ask how much weight the operated leg may take, which walking aid is appropriate, what home exercises are safe, and how to reduce fall hazards. Ask when you can manage stairs, bathing, driving or work, and whom to contact if progress slows.