How to Stretch Safely
Do
• Check with your surgeon before doing lower body exercises if you have had a hip replacement.
• Warm up before doing stretching exercises.
• Some easy walking and arm pumping first if you are doing only stretching exercises. Stretching your muscles before they are warmed up may cause injury.
Don't
• Cross your legs or bend your hips past a 90-degree angle.
• Stretch too far. Stretching should never cause pain, especially joint pain.
• "Bounce" into a stretch; make slow, steady movements instead. Jerking into position can cause muscles to tighten and may cause injury.
• "Lock" your joints into place when you straighten them during stretches. Your arms and legs should be straight when you stretch them, but don't lock them in a tight, straight position. Your joints should bend a little while you stretch.
And Remember…
• Mild discomfort or a mild pulling sensation is normal.
Stretches to Try
Click on the title of each stretch for instructions and a demonstration.
• Tricep Stretch
• Shoulder Rotation
• Hamstring Stretch
• Calf Stretch
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