Hip Precautions

• Anterolateral THR avoid:
  • Hip external rotation
  • Hip adduction
  • Hip extension

• Posterolateral THR avoid:
  • Flexion >60-90 degrees; “knee above hip”
  • Internal rotation of leg
  • Adduction of leg
  • Avoid excess trunk flexion

Spinal Precautions

• No Bending forward farther than 90 degrees hip flex
• No Twisting of the spine
• No Lifting greater than 5-10lbs (weight restriction is dependent on MD and procedure/ injury)

Sternal/ Cardiac Precautions

• Do not push or pull with your arms.
• Hug a pillow or teddy bear when getting in/out of bed or up/down from a chair.
• Do not raise your elbows higher than your shoulders.
• Brace your chest when coughing or sneezing. Huff instead of coughing if you can.
• No lifting objects greater than 5 to 10 pounds or as instructed by your doctor.
• Do not reach to the side or back.
• Avoid twisting or deep bending.
• Do not hold your breath during activity; counting out loud or talking will help.
• Ask clearance from your doctor before driving.
  • Pacemaker Precautions are sternal precautions on the left side of their body.