Recovery

Post-Hip Replacement: Heel Slides, Abduction, Adduction

Choose a preferred language

The following exercises can be done in bed. Some help improve blood flow. Others help build strength. Your physical therapist or surgeon may give you special instructions. Repeat each exercise  10 times. Do them at least  3 times each day. Count out loud with each exercise to avoid holding your breath.


Heel slides

  • Keep the heel of your operated leg on the bed. Then slide the heel toward your buttocks as far as you comfortably can.

  • Hold for 5 seconds. Then slide your heel back to the starting position.

    Leg from knee down showing heel slides.


Abduction/adduction

  • Start with your feet slightly apart. Keeping your knee and foot pointing toward the ceiling, slowly slide your operated leg out to the side.

  • Slide your leg back to its starting position without crossing the midline of your body.

    Legs from waist down showing abduction/adduction.

Online Medical Reviewer: Elizabeth Oswald PT DPT

Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024

© 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.
Suitcase Icon

Learn More About Health Services at PIH Health

Expert care for every stage of life. Explore the comprehensive services offered at PIH Health.

Explore Services
Newspaper Icon

Get Health Tips & Updates

Sign up for helpful health information, wellness tips and news from PIH Health, delivered straight to your inbox.

Subscribe
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Discharge Instructions for Scoliosis Surgery

Instructions for care after scoliosis surgery.

Read article
Orthopedics
Using Log-Roll to Get Out of Bed (Hip Care)

Here are images showing how to safely get out of bed after a hip replacement.

Read article
Orthopedics
Discharge Instructions for Shoulder Arthroscopy

You had a shoulder arthroscopy. It is a surgical procedure that helps the health care provider diagnose and treat shoulder problems. These include instability, arthritis, and rotator cuff problems. Below are instructions to help you care for your shoulder when you are at home.

Read article
Orthopedics
Discharge Instructions: Using Crutches (Non-Weight-Bearing)

Your healthcare provider has prescribed crutches for you. Follow our step-by-step guide to using crutches.

Stethoscope Icon

Personalized Care Starts with the Right Provider

Search by specialty, location, and more.

Find A Doctor
Appointments Icon

Make an Appointment

Your health can't always wait. Schedule an appointment with a PIH Health provider.

Schedule an Appointment
Cross Icon

Find a PIH Health Urgent Care Location

Need care today?. Find the nearest PIH Health Urgent Care location.

Find Urgent Care