Post-surgical physical therapy for hip replacement in Sunset Hills, MO is a critical part of your recovery journey, supporting your return to normal movement, reducing pain, and helping you enjoy your daily life again. Whether you’re days out from surgery or planning ahead, personalized physical therapy in Sunset Hills, MO can make all the difference in how quickly and safely you heal.
At Axes Physical Therapy, we specialize in guiding Sunset Hills, MO-area patients through every stage of post-op recovery with evidence-based strategies, empathetic care, and personalized recovery plans. Whether your goal is to walk with ease or get back to your favorite activities, we’re here to support every milestone.
What This Page Covers:
- How physical therapy supports your recovery after hip replacement surgery
- What the different phases of physical therapy look like after surgery
- How many weeks of rehab to expect and what’s included
- The most effective rehab methods for pain relief and mobility
- What makes Axes a trusted choice for hip rehab in Sunset Hills, MO
- Helpful advice for staying mobile and safe post-surgery
What Is Hip Replacement Physical Therapy in Sunset Hills, MO and Why Is It So Important?
Hip replacement physical therapy is a step-by-step recovery program that guides you safely through healing after surgery. It includes a combination of stretching, strengthening, balance training, and functional exercises that improve how you walk, move, and live day to day. Your therapist will also help you control pain, reduce inflammation, and avoid risky movements as your hip heals.
In most cases, Sunset Hills, MO patients begin PT within 48 hours of surgery and stay in treatment long enough to comfortably resume daily activities like walking, stairs, or yardwork.
Skipping or delaying therapy can lead to stiffness, muscle weakness, poor mobility, or a longer recovery overall. That’s why consistent physical therapy is so important after hip surgery — it’s critical to long-term success.
Key Takeaway: The right therapy plan helps you recover strength and motion — and reduces your chances of post-op setbacks. Without it, healing is slower and long-term function may be limited.
What to Expect Right After Hip Replacement Surgery in Sunset Hills, MO
Within the first 24 hours post-surgery, most Sunset Hills, MO patients begin moving under hospital supervision. You’ll likely take your first steps with a walker or crutches under the guidance of hospital staff or an inpatient physical therapist. But the real progress begins once you start working with an outpatient Sunset Hills, MO physical therapy provider.
We typically begin working with Sunset Hills, MO patients shortly after discharge — often within 2–3 days. We continue your care with a customized, research-based plan focused on getting you back to full function safely and efficiently.
From Hospital Discharge to Outpatient Therapy
Most patients receive a starter exercise routine before they’re discharged from the hospital. While helpful in the short term, this is not a replacement for hands-on therapy. Once you’re cleared for outpatient PT, our Sunset Hills, MO team steps in to take your recovery to the next level:
- Evaluate how you walk, stand, and move day to day
- Provide pain-relief techniques like manual therapy or dry needling
- Advance your exercise plan based on healing and strength
- Monitor healing and prevent complications
- Support your return to daily life with confidence
Most recovery progress happens during outpatient therapy — starting early can mean faster, smoother results
Key Takeaway: You begin healing in the hospital, but you build function and strength in outpatient care. Starting PT shortly after discharge, with a physical therapy team in Sunset Hills, MO that understands your goals, leads to faster, safer, and more complete healing.
How Long Will You Need Physical Therapy After Hip Surgery in Sunset Hills, MO?
On average, hip replacement rehab lasts between 6 and 12 weeks, though the exact duration varies based on health status and recovery pace. At Axes, your physical therapy plan in Sunset Hills, MO is based on your individual recovery — not a rigid timeline.
Typical PT Schedule After Hip Surgery
- Weeks 1 to 3: Manage pain, regain basic movement, and use support tools like walkers safely
- Weeks 4–6: Begin building strength, improving balance, and increasing movement independence
- Weeks 7 to 12: Focus on endurance and functional activities like climbing stairs or resuming hobbies
Most patients start with two to three visits per week, then reduce frequency as they regain strength. Your therapist will also adjust your home program to support what you’re doing in the clinic.
What If You Need More Time in Therapy?
Absolutely. People with more difficult recoveries or long-standing mobility issues may need extra support. Conversely, some individuals complete rehab sooner when they hit their milestones early.
The key is consistent effort. Skipping sessions or ending too soon can lead to stiffness, weakness, and slower return to normal life.
Key Takeaway: Typical outpatient PT for hip replacement runs about 1 to 3 months. How far you go depends on showing up, staying engaged, and working with Sunset Hills, MO therapists who tailor your care to your recovery.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hip Replacement Recovery in Sunset Hills, MO
From early movement to lasting mobility, we support Sunset Hills, MO patients at every stage of their hip replacement recovery. Each phase builds on the last, helping you regain confidence and function safely and steadily.
Strengthening the Right Muscles
After surgery, the muscles that support your new hip — including the glutes, quads, and hamstrings — require focused work to regain strength and control. We’ll guide you through exercises that improve leg strength, stabilize your hip, and support safe walking and movement.
Regaining Movement After Surgery
Stiffness is a normal part of early hip replacement recovery. Targeted mobility exercises improve range of motion and help you move through daily tasks more comfortably.
Safe Weight-Bearing Progressions
As your hip heals, we’ll gradually increase the amount of weight you put on your leg — starting with a walker or crutches and working toward walking without assistance. You’ll always be guided at a pace that’s safe and supported.
Improving the Way You Walk
After joint surgery, it’s common to favor one side or develop compensatory movement patterns. We’ll work with you on posture, foot placement, and stride so you can walk confidently, safely, and with better alignment.
Getting Back to What You Love
Whether it’s walking your dog, climbing stairs, driving, or playing golf, your plan will include specific exercises that help you meet your personal goals. Every part of your program is personalized to your goals by our Sunset Hills, MO team.
Key Takeaway: Successful recovery happens in stages — from strength and mobility to balance and function. With proper care, you’ll go from slow, steady steps to fully confident activity — on your schedule.
Which Treatments Help Most with Hip Surgery Rehab?
We use science-backed techniques at Axes Physical Therapy to promote safe, efficient healing following a hip replacement. Each plan is personalized to your body, goals, and how far along you are in recovery.
Here are some of the services we may include in your rehab plan:
- Pre/Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
No matter when you begin — before or after surgery — we’ll support your recovery with a plan built around strength, mobility, and movement - Manual Therapy
This hands-on method helps improve range of motion and reduce discomfort in key areas like your hips, back, and thighs - Trigger Point Dry Needling
Used to relieve deep muscle tension and promote healing by targeting specific “knots” that can cause pain and limit movement - Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
IASTM breaks down scar tissue and eases tension in stiff muscles, promoting better movement - Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training
BFR allows you to gain strength with minimal load — perfect for early stages of healing - DorsaVi Video Motion Analysis
Wearable sensor technology gives real-time feedback on your movement patterns to fine-tune your rehab and prevent future issues - Kinesio Taping®
Kinesio taping offers joint support and pain relief while promoting better posture and control
Key Takeaway: Axes delivers comprehensive, research-backed care that guides you through pain management, improved mobility, and lasting strength after hip replacement
Why Patients Trust Axes for Hip Replacement Recovery in Sunset Hills, MO
Your recovery isn’t just about healing — it’s about getting back to living. Axes is proud to provide Sunset Hills, MO-area patients with tailored, one-on-one support that truly makes a difference.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Locally Owned, Community-Focused
Serving St. Louis, Jefferson County, and St. Charles County, our many locations make top-tier rehab accessible and community-centered - Experienced Physical Therapists
Our licensed PTs have an average of over 15 years of clinical experience, with specialized knowledge in orthopedic and post-surgical rehab - Evidence-Based Treatment Plans
Our therapy methods are grounded in proven research, ensuring your recovery is personalized, safe, and efficient - Compassionate, One-on-One Care
We listen to your goals and design care around helping you achieve them, whether personal or practical - Flexible Scheduling and Support
It’s easy to stay on track with our flexible scheduling options that fit around your busy day
Key Takeaway: At Axes, you’ll find expert care, flexible support, and a team that’s committed to helping you thrive after surgery.
Start Your Hip Replacement Recovery with Axes in Sunset Hills, MO
Whether you’re days away from surgery or weeks into healing, physical therapy is crucial for your progress. Axes Physical Therapy is ready to help — from initial mobility to long-term strength and independence.
We coordinate with your surgeon and design a schedule that supports your lifestyle and goals
Let’s get started.
Now that your hip is replaced, let’s help it work the way it’s meant to.
