Post-Femur Surgery Exercises

Femur surgery is a critical medical procedure, often performed in cases of fractures, hip joint degeneration, or serious trauma. After surgery, the recovery process plays a key role in helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life. One of the most important factors during this stage is performing post-surgery femur exercises correctly, consistently, and safely.

• 1. Why Are Exercises Important After Femur Surgery?
• 2. Recovery Stages and Corresponding Exercises
• 2.1. Stage 1: 0 – 2 Weeks After Surgery
• 2.2. Stage 2: 2 – 6 Weeks After Surgery
• 2.3. Stage 3: 6 – 12 Weeks After Surgery
• 2.4. Stage 4: After 12 Weeks
• 3. Important Notes for Exercising
• 4. When to See a Doctor or Rehabilitation Specialist
• 5. Conclusion

1. Why Are Exercises Important After Femur Surgery?

After surgery, muscles and joints in the hip, thigh, and leg often become weak or may stiffen and lose flexibility if not properly moved. Regular exercise brings many benefits such as:

• Strengthening muscles around the surgical site
• Preventing joint stiffness or adhesions
• Improving blood circulation and reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Supporting independent walking
• Shortening recovery time

However, exercises must be performed under the guidance of a doctor or physical therapist to ensure safety and effectiveness.

2. Recovery Stages and Corresponding Exercises

2.1. Stage 1: 0 – 2 Weeks After Surgery

Goal: Reduce pain and swelling, maintain good blood circulation.

Recommended light exercises:

• Isometric quadriceps sets: Lie on your back, tighten the thigh muscles and hold for 5–10 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10–15 times daily.
• Ankle pumps: Gently lift your leg and move the ankle up and down continuously for 1–2 minutes to promote blood flow.
• Straight leg raises: If pain allows, raise your leg about 8–12 inches off the bed, hold for 5 seconds, then lower.

Note: Always use pillows or cushions for support if needed. Avoid putting pressure on the incision site.

2.2. Stage 2: 2 – 6 Weeks After Surgery

Goal: Improve hip joint mobility and leg muscle strength.

Recommended exercises:

• Knee flexion/extension: Sit on the bed and slowly bend and straighten your knee. Repeat 10–15 times.
• Standing balance practice: With a walker or cane for support, stand and hold balance for 30–60 seconds.
• Hip abduction: While lying on your side or standing, move your leg sideways and hold for a few seconds before returning.

Tip: You can start walking with a walker or crutches depending on your doctor’s recommendation.

2.3. Stage 3: 6 – 12 Weeks After Surgery

Goal: Restore functional movement and increase weight-bearing capacity.

Advanced exercises:

• Flat-surface walking: Begin walking lightly every day, gradually increasing time and distance.
• Bridging exercise: Lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips off the bed. Hold for 5–10 seconds, then lower.
• Partial squats: Stand straight, slowly bend your knees (not exceeding a 45-degree angle), then return to standing. Use a chair or railing for balance if needed.

2.4. Stage 4: After 12 Weeks

Goal: Nearly full recovery and return to normal physical activity.

Full-body exercises:

• Stationary cycling: Enhances cardiovascular endurance and lower limb strength.
• Stair climbing: Start with stepping up and down low steps, using handrails for support.
• Swimming or water aerobics: Reduces joint pressure and improves flexibility.

Warning: Avoid high-intensity sports or heavy contact activities for at least 6 months.

3. Important Notes for Exercising

• Always start with light warm-up movements to loosen up the body.
• Monitor your body’s response: Stop if pain increases, swelling worsens, or the incision starts leaking, and inform your doctor.
• Exercise daily, but break sessions into smaller chunks to avoid fatigue.
• Combine a balanced diet and adequate rest to accelerate recovery.

4. When to See a Doctor or Rehabilitation Specialist

Seek medical advice if you experience any of the following after exercising:

• Persistent pain that doesn't improve with rest
• Swelling, redness, or high fever
• Inability to perform simple exercises
• Strange noises or loose sensations around the joint

Contact your doctor or a rehab specialist to reassess and adjust your exercise plan if needed.

5. Conclusion

Recovery after femur surgery is a journey that requires patience and commitment. Following a structured post-femur surgery exercise routine will help restore mobility, minimize complications, and allow you to return to your daily life sooner. Always stay in close contact with your doctor and physical therapist to achieve the best outcomes.