Post-Hip Replacement: Ankle Pumps, Quad Sets, Gluteal Sets

These exercises can improve blood flow and help build strength.

The following exercises can be done in bed. Some help improve blood flow. Others help build strength. Repeat each exercise ____ times. Do them at least ____ times each day. You can count the seconds out loud to avoid breath-holding during each repetition.

Ankle pumps

Leg from knee down showing ankle pumps.

  • Point, then flex, both feet.
  • Doing this ____ times each hour helps prevent blood clots in your legs.

Quadriceps sets

Leg from knee down showing quadriceps sets.

  • Lie in bed with your legs straight. For comfort, you can bend the knee of your good leg and rest your foot on the bed. You can also put a small towel roll behind the knee of your operated leg if it's uncomfortable to have it fully straight.
  • Tighten the front thigh muscle of your operated leg while pressing the back of your knee down into the bed.
  • Hold for ____ seconds, then relax the leg.
  • Repeat ____ times, ____times each day.

Gluteal sets

Leg from waist down showing gluteal sets.

  • Squeeze your buttocks together tightly. Your hips will rise slightly off the bed.
  • Hold for ____ seconds, then release.
  • Repeat ____ times, ____ times each day.