As Former President George Bush Recuperates From Hip Replacement Surgery, Physical Therapy Will Play Key Role In Recovery

As former President
George H. W. Bush recovers from last week's surgery at the Mayo Clinic to
replace his right hip, periodic and progressive physical therapy will play
a key role in his successful rehabilitation, says the American Physical
Therapy Association (APTA).


"Following hip replacement surgery, physical therapy is routinely used,
either in a home health, out-patient, or a rehabilitation setting," says
Dale Avers, PT, DPT, PhD, a professor in physical therapy at SUNY Upstate
Medical University in Syracuse, NY. Avers, who has been conducting research
regarding exercise for aging adults, including those with hip replacements,
warns that residual weakness, which can include balance impairment, may
become evident even years following hip replacement surgery if not properly
addressed.



"Physical therapy, not necessarily on a continuous basis, is now
recommended for patients with hip replacements," says Avers. "Starting
around 4 months, physical therapy, which includes strength training,
mobility and balance exercises, is recommended for optimal results."



The leading indicator for hip replacement is pain and impaired
mobility, not age, notes Avers, very often associated with osteoarthritis.
Physical therapists can improve mobility and decrease pain through manual
therapy and strengthening exercises. Hip replacement surgery is recommended
as a last resort, when the pain becomes unbearable and interferes with
mobility.



For President Bush, Senator Elizabeth Dole, and other patients with hip
replacements, physical therapy starts immediately in the hospital following
surgery, beginning with gentle mobility exercises and activities, says
Avers. Gradually, the exercises are progressed as healing takes place.
Avers said that once the immediate post-op rehabilitation is complete,
patients should return to physical therapy for continued strength and
balance training. "As healing progresses, they need the guidance of a
physical therapist to achieve optimal results and to return to full
function in the activities they enjoy," Avers said.



"Successful hip replacement surgery is the first step in President
Bush's recovery and to enjoying his normal activities," says Avers.
"Physical therapy is the finishing touch."



The American Physical Therapy Association (apta) is a
national organization representing nearly 70,000 physical therapists,
physical therapist assistants, and students nationwide. Its goal is to
foster advancements in physical therapist education, practice, and
research. Consumers can access "Find a PT" to find a physical therapist in
their area, as well as other physical therapy news and information at
apta/consumer.


American Physical Therapy Association

apta