Exercise.

Try walking in the swimming pool-it is less weight bearing. Choose a quieter time (Here that is lunch time) and go to a depth just below chest and walk across at that level if poss. otherwise go up and down at the side of the pool. Forward, backwards , sideways, steps, strides. Tell the lifeguard what you are doing and why .IF you can get a woggle (long foam tube) you can hold it around your middle for stability, push it up and down for the arms, Sit astride (deeper water) and cycle, lean back on it and relax or kick gently-let us know how you get on.

Hi Sarah

Aquafit classes in your local pool include all the exercises recommended by jomary, and having an instructor and other exercisers present might make the experience more enjoyable for you. If you tell the instructor what your problems are they will warn you about any risky movements. One word of warning: there is a trend for High Intensity Interval Training in some aquafit classes which involves rapid jogging on the pool floor. This is quite jarring and to be avoided - I speak from experience! And a tip: wear a pair of cotton socks to the class to stop you slipping when both in and out of the pool.

Hope this helps

sjhips

I totally agree with all that Sarah has said. I would also add in some walking. When I was recovering from my THR this time last year I worked up to doing at least 2-3 miles walking a day. I used 2 sticks as support but gradually stopped using them. I have curvature of the spine so can understand your problems. However since having my hip done my back has also been better and I'm left with no pain.

Dear Sarah

Many people find that swimming helps. The water supports you as you splash or swim around and you get to talk to others who may have similar problems.

Good luck, Richard

I would agree with everyone about swimming. It supports the body so you do not have to weight bear also it is really fun and there are lots of different classes available nowadays. 

I have found, in addition to everyone else’s suggestions, that tai chi helps. The class I go to has a policy of sitting if you cannot stand and not having to do those exercises that are impossible

Hi Sarah, have you tried movement enhancement classes in the therapy pool. Iny community, we have a heated pool , 95 degrees, with Jets. The class I go to is s mic of hip replacements , people with arthritis and also 95 year olds that want to keep on going and be pain free. I have arthritis in my lower back, hands, knees, feet, elbows and shoulders. I am now on a low inflammation diet, lost a fair amount of weight and exercise every day 3 times, doing gentle stretches but also strengthening core. I can say that I feel better than in the last 5 years. I am also on a strong anti inflammatory and need to take strong pain killers once in a while. Being able to function, sleep and be happy motivates me to stay away from sweets, processed foods,alcohol, and night shade plants. I eat a lot of veggies, fruits, fish cabbage, beets, cherries walnuts,carrots, broccoli, Greek yogurt,salads and oatmeal. I had both hips replaced and wear braces on my knees to provide stability. My best friend is Rub535 but ck with your doc if you have Asthma. Have you been referred to a physiotherapist do they can show you what exercises are good for you and how to do them? Good luck. Start slow and give it time but don't give up.

Hi Sarah

Sorry to hear about the results of your test. It's difficult to move when you are in pain. Are you atill doing your post hip exercises. I am post a year and get lazy but I have started again. If you can afford to, get youraelf an upright stationary bike. Or borrow one. Also any kind of aquafit or swimming. I believe the craql is the best. Or on youtube there are plenty of yoga or pilates exercises. Some that are specifically for osteo or hip replacement folks. It's hard to get motivated. That's why we need the community! Happy New Year and good luck

Susan

Hello Sarah,

I just had my THR 3 weeks ago. I am in the same boat as you with the Arthritis in my neck and other places. Before surgery I went to pool Physiotherapy which really helped me prepare for surgery. I use to be a competitive swimmer and found swimming very painful on my neck due to the Arthritis. My physiotherapist recommended a snorkel and mask which is used by lap swimmers now. It is different than thecconrs you use in the ocean. You do not need to turn your head or body now once the snorkle is in place. you just breath. I cant wait to get back in the pool once Surgeon gives me the OK. It is the only exercise I can do. Best part is sitting in the hot tub after!!!