In the first weeks after surgery, patients work on regaining motion around the joint, and gentle strengthening exercises. Typically, patients work with a physical therapist for assistance with these exercises and stretches.
Most patients can begin light activities (cycling, swimming) within a few weeks. Athletes most often take about 12 weeks for recovery. Again, there are specific procedures that may require a more lengthy rehabilitation, so check with your doctor about the specific plans for your recovery.
Sample Hip Arthroscopy Rehabilitation Protocol
Goal: Regain range of motion within tolerance, decrease pain and swelling, neutralize muscle atrophy
- Day of surgery
- Isometric gluteal sets
- Ankle pumps
- Heel slides
- Post-operative days 1-7
- Weight bearing with crutches
- Isometric quadriceps, gluteals, hamstrings, adductors, and abductors
- Active assist range of motion all planes
- Hip mobilization and gentle joint distraction techniques
- Closed chain bridging, balance drills
Goal: Regain and build muscle strength, focus on symmetry/core strength
- Post-operative weeks 2-3
- Wean crutches and normalize gait pattern
- Increase range of motion limits
- Gentle progressive resistive exercises
- Closed chain single leg bridging
- Open chain hip 4-way
- Mobilization with movement
- Proprioceptive/balance work
- Stationary bike/aqua therapy
Goal: Improve functional strength and endurance, core strength & stability
- Post-operative weeks 4-6
- Continue flexibility exercises
- Progressively increase resistive and functional strengthening exercises
- Initiate sport specific exercises
- Gradual return to sport
- Labral repair
- Iliopsoas release
- Microfracture
- Capsulorraphy
Sources:
McCarthy, JC "Hip Arthroscopy: Applications and Technique" J. Am. Acad. Ortho. Surg., May 1995; 3: 115 - 122.
