Management

Hip Precautions

Choose a preferred language

Your new hip has a limited safe range of motion. This means it can’t bend and turn as much as a natural hip. So you’ll need to move differently now than you did before surgery. This will help prevent your new hip from popping out of place (dislocating). Precautions may vary depending on the surgical method, your surgeon's preferences, and your specific needs. Ask your surgeon if these measures apply to you.


Sitting safely

Side view of seated person with dotted line showing knee lower than hip.

To protect your new hip, you must sit with your knees lower than or level with your hips. To do this, sit in chairs with high seats, preferably chairs with armrests. Placing a firm pillow on the seat of a chair can also help.


Following precautions

You must protect your new hip by preventing certain positions and movements. This will let your hip heal. It will also help keep it from dislocating. You may also be told to limit how much weight you put on your operated leg. You will learn how to follow precautions when lying, sitting, and standing.

Flexion precaution

Side view of person bending over to pick up ball with head lower than hips, and red X shows not to do this.

Adduction precaution

Front view of person sitting in chair with legs crossed, and red X shows not to do this.

Internal rotation precaution

Front view of legs showing one foot and leg rotated towards middle, and red X shows not to do this.

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025

© 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.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

1-800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

1-800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

1-800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Supine Hamstring Stretch

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this stretch.

Read article
Orthopedics
Single Leg Balance

Step-by-step instructions for balancing on 1 leg.

Read article
Orthopedics
Heel Cord (Gastrocnemius) Stretch (Flexibility)

Stand facing a wall from 3 feet away. Take one step toward the wall with your right foot. Place both palms on the wall. Bend your right knee. Lean forward, keeping the left leg straight and the left heel on the floor. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds.

Read article
Orthopedics
Choosing the Right Shoes for Comfort

Your feet support the weight of your body. Repeated stress on your feet can cause damage over time. The right shoes can help protect your feet. The wrong shoes can cause problems. Learn how to find a shoe that fits your foot needs.