More than 300,000 people in the United States undergo hip replacement surgery every year. If you’re among that number, it’s important to understand that the success of your surgery may depend in large part on the recovery process.
That’s why the expert team at SportsMED Orthopedic Surgery & Spine Center, with four Alabama locations, offers the following tips on how best to prepare for your recovery at home after hip replacement surgery.
We want to make sure you have the safest and quickest recovery possible.
1. Get a support network in place
You’re going to want to do this especially if you live alone, but having a network of friends and family ready to help is important when it comes to recovering from hip replacement surgery.
You may need a couple of people to help you out throughout the day with things like laundry and meal preparation, or simply to provide some company.
2. Hire an in-home caregiver
It may even be a good idea to hire an in-home caregiver if you’re able. Your mobility is limited following surgery, so you’ll likely need help moving around the house to do simple things, like using the restroom.
3. Think safety and convenience
Before your surgery, gather or arrange those things that you may need so they’re easily accessible, to keep your movements to a minimum. If you have a two-story house, for example, you may want to set up a bed on the first floor.
Also, identify any obstacles that might cause you to fall during your recovery. For example, secure your rugs to the floor, move loose electrical cords out of your walking path, and install nightlights.
4. Set up your bathroom
Once you get home from surgery, trips to the bathroom may be more difficult. Install a raised toilet seat or safety frame before your procedure, and you might also consider adding grab bars on the walls, including in your shower. Don’t rely on towel racks to support yourself.
Use a shower seat, so you don’t have to stand when showering. And install non-slip suction mats or rubber silicone decals to keep you from slipping as you enter and exit the shower.
5. Keep up with your physical therapy exercises
After surgery, a physical therapist comes to your home or you may receive physical therapy services at a SportsMED facility. Either way, these exercises are important to help restore your strength, mobility, and range of motion.
6. Follow instructions
Be sure to follow all of the discharge instructions that we provide and make sure you take your medication as prescribed. We want you to enjoy optimal results from your surgery, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about your recovery.
To learn more about hip replacement surgery, call one of our convenient locations in Huntsville, Madison, Athens, and Decatur, Alabama, or book your appointment online.