Which activity is discouraged after hip replacement to prevent dislocation?

Which activity is discouraged after hip replacement to prevent dislocation?

• A. Sitting with the legs crossed
• B. Standing with the hips neutral
• C. Walking with a cane
• D. Lying flat with legs uncrossed

Answer: (A)

After a hip replacement, the joint is most at risk for dislocation when the hip is flexed, adducted, or internally rotated. Sitting with legs crossed places the operated hip into adduction and internal rotation, which can push the femoral head out of the socket and cause a dislocation, especially during the early healing period. That’s why this activity is discouraged. In contrast, standing with hips in neutral alignment, walking with a cane to reduce weight bearing, and lying flat with legs uncrossed keep the hip aligned and minimize dislocation risk.

After a hip replacement, the joint is most at risk for dislocation when the hip is flexed, adducted, or internally rotated. Sitting with legs crossed places the operated hip into adduction and internal rotation, which can push the femoral head out of the socket and cause a dislocation, especially during the early healing period. That’s why this activity is discouraged. In contrast, standing with hips in neutral alignment, walking with a cane to reduce weight bearing, and lying flat with legs uncrossed keep the hip aligned and minimize dislocation risk.