According to Daniela Gattringer, patients with artificial knees or hips can often ski again after a certain period of time – if they stick to certain rules. The head of physical medicine at the Linz Order of Mercy Sisters Clinic explains what needs to be done: “Experienced skiers can in most cases return to the slopes after an operation without complications. However, they should rather ski on flat, well-prepared routes. The material also matters a role. It would also be advantageous to ‘slip’ the momentum.”
However, immediately after inserting the new prosthesis, it is important to be patient. After the operation, patients are usually dependent on crutches for around six weeks. After that, rehabilitation makes sense. Until then, those affected usually receive outpatient physiotherapy treatment to promote fitness and stability.
For experienced skiers only
The surgeon ultimately gives the green light for the slope – usually after six to nine months: The check-up checks whether the prosthesis sits correctly and has healed well. But it also depends on the general training condition of the patient. It is important whether you have already practiced the sport before the operation. In general, Gattringer advises against so-called high-impact sports such as tennis, football or handball: “You should definitely avoid contact sports or movements that involve abrupt braking. Fast and agile sports increase the risk of injury or dislocation.” Snowboarding is also not recommended.
The expert recommends so-called low-impact sports such as cycling, swimming, hiking or cross-country skiing that are gentle on the joints.
Immediately after inserting the prosthesis, the focus should not be on sport, but rather on rehabilitation. “Optimizing the range of motion of the affected joint and improving muscle strength and coordination are of great importance. Patients need physiotherapy so that the muscle layer can be rebuilt properly,” says the doctor.
The demand for knee or hip prostheses is constantly increasing. Last year, around 600 hip and knee prostheses were inserted at the Ordensklinikum Linz. Patients benefit from new materials and minimally invasive access, and the implants last up to 20 years – twice as long as before.
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