Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who else can benefit from Post-Op Yoga?
Post-Op Yoga teaches simple, slow, and gentle movements that gradually build flexibility and strength, improve coordination, and reduce stress. It includes movements that could be beneficial not only for post-operative patients, but also for people with arthritis and osteoporosis.
DO NOT FORGET TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARING Post-Op Yoga!
Post-Op yoga can be performed not only after THR surgery but prior to the surgery to minimize the body’s loss of strength and flexibility as well as becoming more familiar with the program and post-surgical precautions.
How soon can one start Post-Op Yoga after surgery?
If there are no post-surgical complications then you may begin Post-Op Yoga in three-four weeks after surgery. Remember to consult or seek the advice of your physician.
How often can one perform Post-Op Yoga?
For best results, Post-Op Yoga can be done every day or every other day depending onto your body’s tolerance.
What time of the day is best to do Post-Op Yoga?
Morning time is suggested in order to provide your body with a safe and effective way to increase physical activity throughout whole day. Otherwise, listen to your body and feel what time of the day your body responds best to the Post-Op Yoga program.
Which chair is the best to sit on during Post-Op Yoga?
Select a comfortable chair that is not too narrow, tall or short. Make sure your feet can comfortably rest on the floor as you sit in chair and your knees are not higher than your hips.
How far should I push myself to move during Post-Op Yoga?
All movements should be performed within a comfortable range of motion. DO NOT FORCE ANY MOVEMENTS AND DO NOT WORK THROUGH PAIN! Take rests as often as your body requires. Be aware of your breathing. DO NOT HOLD YOUR BREATH during exercising! Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. If you experience signs or symptoms of injury, illness you should seek the advice of your health care provider.
What are Total Hip Replacement (THR) and Partial Hip Replacement (PHR) post-operative precautions?
Post-operative precautions:
- Do not cross your legs at the knees.
- Do not bend at the waist beyond 90 degrees.
- Do not bring your knee up higher than your hip.
- Do not lean forward while sitting or as you sit down.
- Do not try to pick something up on the floor while you are sitting/standing.
- Do not turn your feet excessively inward or outward when you bend down.
What are Sternal Precautions After Open Heart Surgery ?
Post-operative precautions:
- Limit ROM within the onset of feelings of pulling on the incision or mild pain!
- If you feel any pulling or stretching in your chest, stop what you are doing. Do not repeat the motion that caused this feeling.
- Report any clicking or popping noise around your chest bone to your surgeon right away.
- Brace your chest when coughing or sneezing. This is vital during the first 2 weeks at home.
- Do not push or pull with your arms when moving in chair getting of chair.
- Do not raise your arms/elbows higher than your shoulders. The only exception is if both arms are raised together in front of your body. (No over the shoulder activity until cleared by your cardiac surgeon.)
- Avoid reaching too far across your body.
- Do not reach behind your back or reach sideways.
- Avoid twisting or deep bending.
- Do not hold your breath during activity.
- No driving until cleared by your cardiac surgeon
- Do not lift more than 10 pounds. (A gallon of milk weighs 8 pounds.)