Specialized Toolkit Series: Arthroscopic Hip Treatments-Home Exercises for Hip Health

Pdf Summary

The AANA Hip Arthroscopy Toolkit for non-surgical therapy provides a structured approach to physical therapy aimed at treating various hip injuries by strengthening the core and hip muscles. The therapy is divided into three phases, carefully designed to facilitate safe recovery under the guidance of a skilled physical therapist while accommodating individual variations in hip pathologies.<br /><br /><strong>Phase 1</strong> focuses on reducing hip irritation and inflammation, preventing muscle atrophy, and improving the range of motion. Patients are divided into two pathways based on symptoms—Pathway A for impingement and Pathway B for instability like dysplasia. Initial exercises include gentle movements like stationary biking without resistance, Cat-Cow, Child’s pose, and bridging progression. Manual therapy, such as active release techniques and dry needling, is also emphasized. It's important to avoid stretching for those with instability, as it may exacerbate hip irritation.<br /><br /><strong>Phase 2</strong> progresses to painless loading of the hip, hip stabilization, and regaining motion symmetrical to the uninjured side. Activities include stationary biking with resistance, lunges, clamshells, side leg raises, and planks. Progression to this phase requires minimal pain from low-impact activities and proper muscle firing patterns.<br /><br /><strong>Phase 3</strong> aims for a progressive return to sports activities. Exercises from previous phases continue alongside the introduction of sport-specific and non-contact activities. Criteria for advancing include walking 2 miles without pain and achieving a full range of motion.<br /><br />Overall, the toolkit emphasizes the importance of not pushing through pain, expecting potential setbacks, and customizing the exercise regimen based on individual recovery progression and medical advice. It is essential to use the protocol as a guide rather than a strict regimen, allowing flexibility for adjustments by healthcare professionals.

Asset Caption

F. Winston Gwathmey Jr., M.D.

Keywords

AANA Hip Arthroscopy Toolkit

non-surgical therapy

physical therapy

hip injuries

core strengthening

hip stabilization

manual therapy

rehabilitation phases

sport-specific activities

customized recovery