Hip Replacement Recovery: How a Sports Therapist Can Help
AM Sports Therapy | Kingsbridge & South Hams
A total hip replacement (THR) is a remarkable and transformative surgical procedure for individuals facing advanced arthritis, hip joint damage, or chronic hip pain. Surgery marks just the beginning of your journey. The true key to reclaiming your life lies in a structured recovery plan.
At AM Sports Therapy, nestled in Kingsbridge, I empower clients across the South Hams to embark on safe and effective rehab after their hip replacement—whether you're freshly out of surgery or well into your recovery path.
What Is a Total Hip Replacement (THR)?
A THR involves replacing the damaged ball-and-socket joint of the hip with an artificial implant. It's typically done to:
Relieve pain from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or joint degeneration
Restore mobility
Improve overall quality of life
Modern hip replacements are durable and can last 15–20 years or more—but rehab is essential to get the most out of the new joint.
What Recovery Looks Like
➤ Weeks 1–6: Healing + Gentle Movement
You'll likely use crutches or a walker. You'll start with simple exercises to keep the joint mobile and muscles active. Avoiding dislocation or strain on the new joint is key.
➤ Weeks 6–12: Regaining Strength
As pain decreases, we focus on posture, balance, and strengthening weakened muscles—especially the glutes, abductors, and core.
➤ 3–6 Months: Return to Activity
Most people can walk unaided and return to many everyday activities. Rehab helps you move efficiently and avoid bad habits (like limping or overcompensating).
➤ 6+ Months: Long-Term Confidence
Ongoing mobility and strength work keeps your hip functioning well—especially for gardening, hiking, or coastal walking common in the South Hams.
How AM Sports Therapy Helps
✅ Tailored Rehab Plans
Every hip replacement is different. We assess your needs and create a personalised rehab plan tailored to you, progressing at your own pace.
✅ Safe Movement Training
We teach correct techniques for walking, standing, sitting, turning, and climbing stairs—without strain or poor mechanics.
✅ Hands-On Soft Tissue Work
We use manual therapy to reduce stiffness, release tight muscles, and support circulation and healing around the new joint.
✅ Strength + Balance Training
We target weak areas—especially around the pelvis and hip—to prevent limping, falls, or imbalance.
✅ Real-Life Goals in Mind
Want to get back to the coastal path, do the garden, or play with grandkids? We train for real-world activity—not just clinic exercises.
South Hams Recovery Tips
Start with flat, stable walks (e.g., Kingsbridge estuary or local parks)
Use walking poles if balance feels off
Avoid uneven or hilly terrain until your gait is strong and stable
Supportive footwear is a must
Move daily—but avoid overdoing it
When to Get Extra Help
Watch out for:
Sudden or increasing pain
Redness, swelling, or warmth around the hip
Difficulty moving or walking
Loss of balance or fear of falling
These may need further assessment—don't push through pain.
Ready to Move Well Again?
Whether you've just had a hip replacement or feel stuck in your recovery, we can help you get back on track—safely, confidently, and locally.
📍 Based in Kingsbridge | Covering South Hams
🦴 Specialising in post-op hip rehab and soft tissue therapy
Let's get you moving again—book your recovery session today.