Recovery

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

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. Otherwise, repeat each exercise  10 times. Do them at least  3 times each day. You can count the seconds out loud to avoid breath-holding during each repetition.


Ankle pumps

  • Point, then flex, both feet.

  • Doing this 10 to 30 times each hour helps prevent blood clots in your legs.

    Leg from knee down showing ankle pumps.


Quadriceps sets

  • Lie in bed with your legs straight. Tighten the front thigh muscle of your operated leg while pressing the back of your knee down into the bed.

  • Hold for 5 seconds, then relax the leg.

    Leg from knee down showing quadriceps sets.


Gluteal sets

  • Squeeze your buttocks together tightly. Your hips will rise slightly off the bed.

  • Hold for 5 seconds, then release.

    Leg from waist down showing gluteal sets.

© 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.

Find the right providers for your needs.

CalOptima Health works with thousands of Orange County providers, including doctors, specialists, health networks, medical groups and more.

Find a Doctor

See Member Health Rewards

CalOptima Health offers health rewards to eligible CalOptima Health members who take an active role in their well-being!

View available rewards
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Wall Squats for ACL Healing

After you regain muscle control, it’s time to build strength. This helps you put full weight on your leg. For best results, warm up and stretch before starting. If your injury is recent, wait until swelling and pain decrease before doing this exercise.

Read article
Orthopedics
Taking Care of Your Limb After Amputation

Soon after surgery, you’ll be taught how to take care of your residual limb. This is the part of your limb that remains after amputation. Follow all directions from your care team closely.

Read article
Orthopedics
Cast Care: Types of Casts and Cast Aids

Several types of casts are available to help injuries heal. Your doctor will decide what type of cast will work best for your injury.

Read article
Orthopedics
Discharge Instructions: Using a Thoracolumbar Sacral Orthosis Brace (TLSO)

Your health care provider has prescribed a thoracolumbar sacral orthosis brace (TLSO) for you. A TLSO is a back brace. It's used to keep your back straight after surgery to help treat scoliosis or a spine fracture. Using the TLSO correctly will help you move on your own.