How Physical Therapy Can Help Your Hip

You may find yourself in a physical therapist's care for rehabilitation after hip surgery, or for a condition related to a lack of balance, poor posture, or pain in the hip joint. Whatever the reason, your physical therapist will start by taking a detailed history and evaluating your condition. Related conditions such as osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, and osteoporosis are assessed during this initial phase.

Your physical therapist may then proceed to a "hands-on" evaluation of your condition. He or she may assess your balance, gait, posture, and range of motion. Your physical therapist may also perform tests to assess the strength, sensation, and blood circulation in your hip region and lower limbs.

Physical therapists may choose from an array of interventions, including exercises for stability, balance, posture, flexibility, coordination, strength, and restoration of range of motion. You may also benefit from hip mobilization, massage, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or the application of heat or cold. Your physical therapist will custom-design a program just for you.

Your physical therapist will also want to make sure that your home environment is safe and efficiently laid out, especially if you have limited mobility. There are many techniques and "tricks" that can make life much easier for someone recovering from a hip injury or condition. Your physical therapist wants you to return to your normal activity as quickly as possible, with the knowledge you need to prevent reinjury or disability.