Take steps ahead of time to make recovery easier. Make a few simple changes around the house. Also, arrange for someone to help you for a couple of weeks after your hip replacement. Before surgery, your surgeon may talk with you about treating any health or dental issues now may improve healing after a joint replacement.
Preparing Your Home
- Put items you use often within easy reach. Store all supplies between waist and shoulder level. You will want to avoid using a stool or bending over.
- Stock up on healthy, easy to prepare foods.
- Prepare a room on the main living level, if you usually sleep upstairs. Or set things up to limit the times you will need to go up or down stairs each day.
- Pick up clutter, remove throw rugs, tape down electrical cords that may pose a tripping hazard.
- Practice using devices such as a long-handled grasper. Now is a good time to learn this skill.
- Have a raised toilet seat put in. This will protect your hip joint, so using the bathroom will be safer.
Purchase the Recommended Items
Some simple and items can be purchased prior to surgery that can help you have a safer and easier recovery. Your doctor will advise you on the specific items you should purchase prior to your surgery. It is commonly recommended that you purchase the following items:
- An elevated toilet seat
- A shower seat
- Handrails and grab bars to help you steady yourself, especially when getting in and out of the tub
- A grasping device to pull on socks and shoes
Discuss Your Medications
Tell your surgeon about all of the medications you take. This includes herbs and supplements, as well as prescription and over-the-counter medications. Some medications don’t go well with anesthesia. Others, such as aspirin, blood thinners, and ibuprofen, increase bleeding. To avoid problems during surgery, you may need to stop taking certain medications before hip replacement.
Finish Dental Work
Have any tooth or gum problems treated before surgery. Also, finish any dental work that may be under way. If you don’t, germs in your mouth could enter the bloodstream and infect the new joint. This could delay your recovery. In an extreme case, may cause an infection in your new joint.
Prepare Yourself both Mentally and Emotionally
- Educate Yourself: Understand the surgery process, recovery timeline, and what to expect during rehabilitation.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Recovery can take time, and setting realistic goals will help you stay positive and motivated.
- Support System: Talk to friends, family, or support groups about your upcoming surgery. Emotional support can be crucial during recovery.
Being well-prepared can help ensure a smoother surgery experience and set the stage for a successful recovery.