Walking With Crutches After Hip Replacement

In the Hospital

The day of your surgery, your physical therapist will get you out of bed for the first time. The physical therapist will help you walk with a walker or crutches, as you will be allowed to put as much weight on your legs as you would like. You can also sit in a chair that afternoon and get into the bathroom with the help of either the nurses or therapist.

Each day the amount of walking and time sitting in the chair should increase as you can tolerate. Before you go home, the therapist will teach you how climb stairs safely to protect your new hip. Your physical therapist will show you the exercises you should be doing at home.

Exercise will help you regain the strength in your hips and legs so can walk more easily.

Crutch Safety

You may place as much weight on your operated leg as you can tolerate. Use the crutches to improve your balance and safety, as well as to favor the operated leg when it is painful.

Keep the pressure or weight on your hands and not on your armpits. Nerve damage can result if weight is placed on the armpits for too long.
Keep your elbows close to your side to keep the crutches against your ribs.
The tips of your crutches should be two to three inches out to the side of your feet so you do not trip on your crutches.
There should be a slight bend in your elbow when holding onto the crutches (15–20 degrees).
Take your time and do not try to walk too fast.
Keep your head up and look ahead. Do not look at your feet while walking.
When walking on carpet, you must pick up your crutches and injured leg more than when you walk on tile.
Remove all throw rugs from the floor to keep from slipping and falling.