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Had Hip Surgery, Legs Are Leaking Fluids, Suggested To Keep Legs Up. Is Exercise Must After A Hip Surgery?
my mother 3 weeks ago had hip surgery which was ok,she had problems after with sodium levels which was put right with medication ,but now the nurse has to come in as her legs are leaking fluid and they have told her to keep her legs up ,how can she do that when the doctors at the hospital have told her to excersize her legs by walking,she is 83
Tue, 28 May 2013
Hey. Thanks for writing at HCM.
At this age its common to lose an excess amount of sodium or electrolytes from the kidneys. And there is water retention in limbs because of prolonged standing or sitting. For that reason it is advised to keep the legs above the level of body. But after hip surgeries exercises of hips are required too, But she doesnt have to exercise the whole day. Let her electrolytes come back to normal level and then she can do those exercises regularly. Till then let her lie down with legs elevated and make her walk every once in a while. Make her shift her position in bed as well. Hope this helps. Take care
At this age its common to lose an excess amount of sodium or electrolytes from the kidneys. And there is water retention in limbs because of prolonged standing or sitting. For that reason it is advised to keep the legs above the level of body. But after hip surgeries exercises of hips are required too, But she doesnt have to exercise the whole day. Let her electrolytes come back to normal level and then she can do those exercises regularly. Till then let her lie down with legs elevated and make her walk every once in a while. Make her shift her position in bed as well. Hope this helps. Take care
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