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Exercises Before Hip Replacement: To Help with Walker or Crutch Use

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These exercises help build upper body strength. This helps when you need to use a walker or crutches after surgery. Be sure to exercise both arms. Your physical therapist or surgeon may also tell you to use weights when doing these exercises.


 Biceps curls

  • Sit up straight in a chair. Keep your elbow close to your body and your wrist straight.

  • Bend your arm, moving your hand up to your shoulder. Then slowly lower your arm.

    Seated woman doing biceps curls with hand weight.


 Triceps curls

  • Sit, leaning forward from the waist.

  • Bend your elbow so that your forearm is parallel to the floor. Then straighten your elbow as you extend your arm behind you.

    Seated woman doing triceps curls with hand weight.


 Seated press-ups

  • Sit in a sturdy chair with armrests.

  • With palms flat on the armrests, press down to lift your buttocks from the chair. Hold for a few seconds.

  • Bend your elbows to slowly ease back down.

    Woman doing seated press-ups in chair.

Online Medical Reviewer: Joseph, Thomas N., MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Walton-Ziegler, Olivia, MS, PA-C

Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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