Exercise following THR

[Littlephysio]

Hi all,

I am a newly qualified physio currently working in an intermediate care team.

One of my patients has recently had a THR using a trochanteric approach.

Following discussion with a hospital physio regarding the consultants post op protocol i have been told that the patient is NOT to perfom any exercises other than circulatory and mobility for 3 months.

All of my other THR replacements are to begin hip strengthening exercises following the op.
Can anyone please explain why the trochanteric approach differs?

it just seems to me that the patient would need to strengthen the hip to avoid dislocation and trendelenberg gait.

Thanks

[morwenna]

Was the trochanter removed and wired? That might be the reasoning. It does seem somewhat conservative, but in the end, we often have to abide by the surgeons instructions .... have you tried asking him why? (Be`prepared to have your head`bitten off though!)

[Littlephysio]

Thanks for your reply.

I have received very little information regarding the actual procedure.
As for speaking to the consultant, i have tried but he is out of the country for 2 weeks! I have made an appointment with his secretary to speak with him when he returns.
it just doesnt make sense to me!