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 (http://www.apta.org) 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 http://www.apta.org/consumer.

American Physical Therapy Association
http://www.apta.org