Cindy is demonstrating and reviewing the most common Posterior Hip Precautions.
1. Do Not bend more than 90 degrees at the hips/waist. The 90 degree angle refers to the angle between the thigh and the trunk. Use caution not to reduce the angle either by leaning forward at the waist or by raising the knee toward the trunk. Use caution when sitting or standing from any surface, making sure to maintain this precaution.
2. Do Not turn the toes/leg on the surgical side inward. Use caution not to plant and pivot on the surgical leg when turning with the walker. Always pick up the feet and turn with the walker.
3. Do not cross the legs or cross the midline of the body with the surgical leg. Surgeons may or may not send a foam wedge home for use to prevent crossing legs/midline. If you need a reminder, place a pillow between your legs while sitting or lying. Use caution not to roll onto/sleep on the non surgical side (until released to do so by surgeon), which can allow the (top leg) surgical leg to both roll inward and cross midline due to the weight of the leg.
Most hip precautions remain in place at least 12 weeks, but that can vary depending on the surgery and surgeon. Hip precautions can vary as well, so be sure to consult with your surgeon on the hip precautions and any special or additional instructions that may apply to your surgery.
If you have questions regarding you hip precautions, please be sure to consult with your physical or occupational therapist.