Physical therapy next step after surgery

I was disappointed that more mention of physical therapy was not included in your article on hip replacement surgery [“The New Hip Trend,” June 5].

As a practicing physical therapist, I would argue that a comprehensive physical therapy protocol, including stretching, strengthening and stabilization exercises, would optimize the effects of the surgery and improve outcomes.

While the total hip arthroplasty (THA) patient may be getting younger, a home exercise program or supervised protocol prescribed and implemented by a physical therapist is critical for improving both short- and long-term functional recovery.

DARWIN FOGT

Playa Vista