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Hip Surgery Recovery: Hip Abduction Braces, Immobilizers and Cold Therapy
How long to wear a hip brace after surgery depends on your procedure, and your surgeon sets the plan as your hip heals. A hip abduction brace limits risky motions during that time, after a hip replacement, hip arthroscopy or a dislocation.
- A hip abduction brace keeps the leg from crossing your body and limits deep bending.
- A brace after hip replacement isn't always needed; a brace after hip arthroscopy is more common.
- Cold therapy and a walker or cane round out early recovery.
Limit Risky Motions
Hinge stops keep the hip out of deep bends while tissues heal.
Protect the Repair
A set range lets repaired tissue heal without extra strain.
Move with Confidence
Steady support helps you get up, walk and handle daily tasks.
At a Glance
- How long you wear a hip brace after surgery depends on your surgery and your surgeon.
- Hip abduction braces limit bending and keep the leg from crossing your body.
- After hip replacement, movement precautions are usually needed for the first 6 weeks.
- Many post-op hip braces carry HCPCS code L1686.
- Cold therapy can help with swelling after hip surgery.
450,000+total hip replacements are performed in the US each yearSource: AAOS OrthoInfo
300,000+people in the US break a hip each yearSource: AAOS OrthoInfo
6 weeksis the usual length of movement precautions after hip replacementSource: AAOS OrthoInfo
What Happens to the Hip After Surgery?
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, held together by a strong capsule, a cartilage rim called the labrum and the muscles around it. Common surgeries include hip replacement, hip arthroscopy to repair the labrum, and fracture repair. More than 450,000 total hip replacements are done in the US each year, according to AAOS OrthoInfo.
After surgery, the tissues around the joint need time to heal. AAOS notes that the risk of dislocation after hip replacement is greatest in the first few months. That's why surgeons give movement precautions, and some add a brace.
When to Call Your Surgeon
- Sudden, severe hip pain, or a leg that looks shorter or turned
- Calf pain, swelling or warmth in the leg
- Fever, spreading redness or drainage from the incision
- New numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Any fall, even if you feel fine
How Does a Hip Abduction Brace Help?
A hip abduction brace has a waist belt, a thigh cuff and an adjustable hinge at the side of the hip. The hinge limits how far you can bend the hip, and the frame holds the leg slightly out to the side. Doctors call that outward position abduction.
Limits Deep Bending
Hinge stops keep the hip out of deep bends while tissues heal.
Keeps the Leg Out to the Side
The frame stops the leg from crossing your body.
Adjusts As You Heal
Your care team can widen the range at follow-up visits.
Keep in mind: A brace adds protection, but it doesn't replace the precautions your surgeon gives you. Follow both.
What Are the Different Types of Post-Op Hip Braces?
The right support depends on your surgery and your age. Many people pair a brace with cold therapy in the first weeks.
Hip ROM Abduction Brace
An adjustable hinge limits bending and keeps the leg from crossing after surgery.
Hip Abduction Orthosis
Holds the hip in a set position when your care team wants it still.
Pediatric Abduction Splint
Holds a child's legs apart for hip dysplasia or after hip surgery.
Cold Therapy
Machines and wraps cool the hip to ease pain and swelling.
Brace typeSupportBest forKey detailCommon HCPCS
Hip ROM abduction braceFirm, adjustableHip replacement, arthroscopy, dislocationHinge limits bending and crossingL1686
Hip abduction orthosisFirmHolding the hip in a set positionStatic position set by your care teamL1652
Pediatric abduction splintFirmHip dysplasia and child hip surgeryHolds the legs apartL1660
Cold therapy machineNo support (cooling)Pain and swelling after surgeryCirculates cold water through a padVaries
Cold therapy wrapNo support (cooling)Icing at homeCold pack with gentle compressionNone
How Long Do You Wear a Hip Brace After Surgery?
There's no single answer, so your surgeon sets the timeline. It depends on the surgery, the strength of the repair and how stable your hip feels. After hip replacement, AAOS OrthoInfo says movement precautions are usually needed for the first 6 weeks.
Many people after hip replacement don't need a brace at all. A brace after hip arthroscopy is more common, since it guards the repaired labrum. You can sit in most post-op hip braces within the hinge limits, and a raised toilet seat makes bathroom trips easier.
- Wear the brace exactly as your surgeon directs.
- Never change the hinge settings on your own.
- Use a firm, higher chair so your hip doesn't bend too far.
- Ask before removing the brace to shower, sleep or use the bathroom.
Do You Need a Brace After a Hip Dislocation?
A hip dislocation happens when the ball pops out of the socket. It can follow a hard injury, or happen after a hip replacement before the tissues heal. Hip instability can feel like the joint is slipping, giving way or about to pop.
After the hip is put back in place, some surgeons use an abduction brace to keep the leg out of risky positions. AAOS OrthoInfo notes you may be asked to take special care when sitting, bending or sleeping. Your surgeon decides how long you wear a brace.
- Avoid crossing your legs or turning the foot inward.
- Don't bend the hip past the limit your surgeon sets.
- Sleep with a pillow between your knees if your surgeon asks.
When Do You Need a Hip Immobilizer?
A hip immobilizer holds the hip in one position instead of allowing a set range. Your care team may use one when the hip needs to stay still, such as after some surgeries or to treat a stiff hip. In children, abduction splints hold the legs apart for hip dysplasia or after surgery.
A hip abduction pillow is different. It's a foam wedge that sits between your legs in bed to keep them apart. Some people use both, so ask your surgeon which you need.
Should You Use an Ice Machine After Hip Surgery?
Many surgeons recommend cold therapy after hip surgery to ease pain and swelling. An ice machine circulates cold water through a pad, so it stays cold longer than an ice pack. In one study in SICOT-J, patients used a cooling device for 72 hours after hip replacement. The authors said the results support its use for reducing swelling.
An ice pack wrap is simpler and costs less, but it warms up and needs refreezing. Always use a barrier between the pad and your skin, and follow your surgeon's plan for how long to ice.
Getting Used to Your Post-Op Hip Brace
Keep Your Surgeon's Settings
Leave the hinge where your care team set it, and ask before any change.
Wear a Thin Layer Underneath
Soft, thin clothing under the belt and cuff helps prevent rubbing.
Set Up Your Bathroom
A raised toilet seat and grab bars make each trip safer.
Choose Firm, Higher Seats
Chairs with arms help you stand up without bending the hip too far.
Insurance and HCPCS Codes
Most post-op hip braces have an HCPCS code, the billing code Medicare and insurers use for medical equipment. We don't bill insurance, but you can submit your receipt to your insurer for possible reimbursement. Most of our braces are also HSA and FSA eligible.
Talk to a Brace Specialist
US-based team, Monday to Friday
Not sure which hip brace your surgeon wants? Tell us your surgery, which side, and any brace or hinge settings your doctor gave you. Our specialists can help you choose a size and style before you buy, and after your brace arrives you can use our fitting videos or book a virtual fitting session.
Unused items in their original packaging can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase. See our Return Policy for details.
Contact Our TeamFind the Brace That Fits Your Life
Shop Post-Op Hip BracesFrequently Asked Questions
Do you need a brace after hip surgery?
Not always. Many people after hip replacement don't need one, while a brace after hip arthroscopy or a dislocation is more common. Your surgeon decides based on your surgery and how stable the hip is.
Suggested: Breg Post Op T Scope Hip Brace
How long do you wear a hip brace after hip arthroscopy?
It varies by surgeon and by repair, so follow your surgeon's timeline. Most plans adjust the hinge, then stop the brace once the hip is strong and stable enough.
Can you sleep in a hip abduction brace?
Yes, if your surgeon wants it on at night. A pillow between your knees and sleeping on your back can make it more comfortable. Ask before you take it off to sleep.
How do you go to the bathroom in a hip brace?
Most post-op hip braces let you sit within the hinge limits. A raised toilet seat and grab bars help, since you won't need to bend the hip as far. Ask your surgeon before loosening the brace.
How do you keep a hip replacement from dislocating?
Follow your surgeon's precautions when sitting, bending and sleeping, especially in the first months. Avoid crossing your legs and deep bending. If your surgeon prescribes a brace, it adds a layer of protection.
Suggested: Breg Post Op T Scope Hip Brace
Is an ice machine worth it after hip replacement?
For many people, yes. It stays cold longer than an ice pack and makes regular icing easier. One study also found results that support cold therapy for swelling after hip replacement.
Suggested: Brace Direct BlueIce Cold Cryotherapy Machine or Breg Polar Care Cube Cold Therapy System