Is total hip replacement needed before post-operative rehabilitation?

Post-operative rehabilitation is a structured process that helps restore movement, strength, balance and confidence after surgery. It can follow total hip replacement, but it may also follow another orthopaedic operation or a non-orthopaedic procedure. The exercises, precautions and pace depend on the operation, the healing tissues and your general health.

After a hip replacement, rehabilitation commonly addresses safe transfers, walking, hip movement, muscle control and a gradual return to daily activities. The team may modify movements to protect the surgical site. Learn about [Total Hip Replacement](/treatments/joint-replacement/total-hip-replacement/) and [Post-Operative Rehabilitation](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/post-operative-rehabilitation/).

Give the physiotherapist the operation report, discharge instructions and any movement restrictions. Share your pain pattern, walking ability, home layout, work demands and goals. Begin only the exercises approved for your procedure, and use walking aids as instructed rather than testing a painful movement.

A useful plan sets milestones such as getting in and out of bed, walking safely, managing stairs and completing personal care. Keep appointments and record changes in pain, swelling, strength and function so the programme can be adjusted.

Contact the surgical team promptly for a worsening wound, drainage, fever, sudden swelling, new numbness or a sharp increase in pain. Seek urgent help for chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, a cold or pale limb, or sudden inability to stand or walk. Pause an exercise that causes a new severe symptom and ask for specific guidance.

Ask: Which procedure is my rehabilitation designed for? When may physiotherapy begin? Which movements or loads are restricted? What should I use for pain control during exercise? Which changes mean the programme needs review?