National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What type of exercise is contraindicated for someone post-hip arthroplasty?

1. Walking

2. Swimming

3. High-impact sports

4. Stationary cycling

The correct answer is: High-impact sports

After undergoing a hip arthroplasty, patients are usually advised to avoid high-impact sports. This is because high-impact activities can place excessive stress on the newly implanted joint, potentially leading to complications such as dislocation, implant failure, or damage to surrounding tissues. The recovery phase post-surgery emphasizes activities that promote strength and mobility without overloading the joint, advocating for lower-impact exercises instead. In contrast, light walking, swimming, and stationary cycling are often encouraged as they provide low-impact cardiovascular benefits and assist in regaining range of motion, strength, and flexibility without putting undue stress on the hip joint. These exercises facilitate rehabilitation while minimizing the risk of complications associated with high-impact activities.