Hip Precautions

Your new hip has a limited safe range of motion. This means it can’t bend and turn as much as a natural hip. So you’ll need to move differently now than you did before surgery. This will help prevent your new hip from popping out of place (dislocating). Precautions may vary depending on the surgical technique, your surgeon's preferences, and your specific needs. Ask your surgeon if these measures apply to you.

Sitting safely

Side view of seated person with dotted line showing knee lower than hip.

To protect your new hip, you must sit with your knees lower than or level with your hips. To do this, sit in chairs with high seats, preferably chairs with armrests. Placing a firm pillow on the seat of a chair can also help.

Following precautions

You must protect your new hip by avoiding certain positions and movements. This will let your hip heal. It will also help keep it from dislocating. You may also be told to limit how much weight you put on your operated leg. You will learn how to follow precautions when lying, sitting, and standing.

Flexion precaution

Side view of man bending over to pick up ball with dotted line showing head lower than hips. Red X indicates not to do this.

Adduction precaution

Front view of woman sitting in chair with legs crossed. Red X indicates not to do this.

Internal rotation precaution

Front view of legs showing one foot and leg rotated towards the middle. Red X indicates not to do this.