Total Hip Replacement Recovery Procedures
A total hip replacement is life-changing. It is a serious surgery that will require physical therapy as well as lifestyle changes to adapt to the new joint. Recovery depends on you. Each operation is different; however, if you are prepared for recovery before your surgery, your return to normal living will be easier. Start by touring your home weeks before surgery making a list of items you will need to maintain your independence.
Your Bathroom
Your toilet sits way too low for you to use comfortably after hip replacement. You would be wise to invest in a 4-in.-high toilet seat to prevent you from bending too low. Next, check out your shower. If you have a walk-in shower in your home, this is the one you should use during recovery. A tub or shower chair should be added. It takes much longer to shower after surgery and you will get tired quickly. You will find it easier to sit than to stand. A handheld shower head is also a good idea. Make sure that your towels, shampoo and soap are all within easy reach. You do not want to risk bending or twisting.
Your Bedroom
Because you will be spending a lot of time in bed, you will need to have a convenient spot to store your things. A long folding table next to your bed works great. Make a list of everyday items that you will need post-surgery. Store your items in easy-to-move baskets on the table.You will want to have toiletries, books and medications within your grasp. It is a good idea to have a laptop computer and cell phone close by as well. Make your bed comfortable with a wedge pillow. This will allow you to lie in a semi-sitting position without jeopardizing your new hip joint. Many patients complain of cold feet and painful heels from lying in bed for long periods without moving. Wool socks and a foam roller placed under your ankles will help. Be sure to have a TV with a remote control, a DVD player and movies to occupy your time during the first week.
Regaining Your Independence
You will be much happier if you can care for yourself. It will get old real fast for both you and your housemates if you have to ask for assistance with mundane tasks. There are many items available that enable you to be on your own more easily (see Reference No. 1, below.) Tongs or a reacher will allow you to pick up items that you drop. It is tempting to retrieve things that land on the floor, but to do so is extremely dangerous and could lead to dislocation. Use a reacher. You can also purchase a sock aid and a long-handled shoehorn. A walker with a basket attached will allow for mobility from room to room. Have foam cushions at 4- and 6-in. depths cut at a local fabric store. Keep one in the car and one in your house. You will find car seats, restaurant chairs, and some seating in your home will sit too low for comfort.
Your Rehab Program
It is imperative that you do your prescribed exercises to regain your strength. Swimming is the best and most comfortable strengthening workout (see Reference No. 2, below). If you do not have a gym membership or access to a pool, it would be a good idea to make arrangements prior to your surgery. You will be amazed at how weak your muscles are after surgery and how quickly you regain strength with rehabilitation. Look at it as your new workout program and stick to it.
Intimacy
Everyone wonders, but few will ask: "When can I return to sexual activity?" The answer in most cases is, "When you feel like it." Without getting too descriptive, you will have limitations, but they will not last forever (see Reference No. 3, below). Your physician should have a booklet that goes over what you will need to know. Just remember that being overly cautious is normal; take it slow.
Back to Work, Back to Your Life
Within a few weeks you will be ready to return to work and get back to normal activities. Don't be surprised if you get tired more quickly and need to take it a bit slower. Stairs will be difficult, but they are great muscle builders. Remember that you have had a huge assault on your body and full recovery takes time. The one thing you won't have is the hip pain.
Words to Remember
There are some cautions that you should commit to memory. Here is a great list put out by Mendelson Orthopedics:
* Don't cross your legs at the knees for at least eight weeks.
* Don't bring your knee up higher than your hip.
* Don't lean forward while sitting or as you sit down.
* Don't turn your feet excessively inward or outward when you bend down.
* Do keep the leg facing forward.
* Do keep the affected leg in front as you sit or stand.
* Don't reach down to pull up blankets when lying in bed.
* Don't bend at the waist beyond 90 degrees.
* Don't stand pigeon-toed.
* Do use a high kitchen or bar stool in the kitchen.
* Don't kneel on the knee on the unoperated leg (the good side).
* Do kneel on the knee on the operated leg (the bad side).
* Don't use pain as a guide for what you may or may not do.
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