Although the hip joint and knee joint work together for proper movement of the leg, they are completely separate joints. Hip replacement surgery will require rehabilitation of the affected hip joint, but will not directly affect the knee. However, weakness of the recovering hip joint will put more stress on the healthy knee joint.
Joint Function
Hip replacement surgery will compromise the strength of the hip joint. The knee joint is a separate joint that will not be directly affected. Because of the weakness of the hip, weight-bearing stress will tend to be transfered to the knee.
What to Expect
After hip replacement surgery, your physical therapist will advise you to begin a physical rehabilitation program of simple exercises.
Necessity of Exercise
The hip and knee joint need to be exercised soon after surgery, the former for rehabilitation and the latter to maintain strength. Exercise will increase blood circulation, strengthen muscles and restore range of motion.
Bed-Supported Knee Bends
One exercise that illustrates the close connection between the hip and the knee joint is the bed-supported knee bend. While lying on your back in bed with legs straight, you drag your heel toward your buttocks then push it back until your leg is straight again.
Standing Knee Raises
The standing knee bend exercise also illustrates how the knee and hip joint work together. While standing supported by a chair, you raise the knee toward your waist.
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