Dos And Don'ts
Total Hip Replacement Guide for Your Return Home
Dos and Don'ts
The Dos
- Do keep the leg facing forward
- Do keep the affected leg in front as you sit or stand
- Do use a high kitchen or barstool in the kitchen
- Do kneel on the knee on the operated leg (the bad side)
- Do use ice to reduce pain and swelling, but remember that ice will diminish sensation. Don't apply ice directly to the skin; use an ice pack or wrap it in a damp towel
- Do apply heat before exercising to assist with range of motion. Use a heating pad or hot, damp towel for 15 to 20 minutes
- Do cut back on your exercises if your muscles begin to ache, but don't stop doing them
The Don'ts
- Don't cross your legs at the knees for at least 8 weeks
- Don't bring your knee up higher than your hip
- Don't lean forward while sitting or as you sit down
- Don't try to pick up something on the floor while you are sitting
- Don't turn your feet excessively inward or outward when you bend down
- Don't reach down to pull up blankets when lying in bed
- Don't bend at the waist beyond 90°
- Don't stand pigeon-toed
- Don't kneel on the knee on the non-operated leg (the good side)
- Don't use pain as a guide for what you may or may not do
References
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00356
Total Hip Replacement Equipment
If you are being discharged to a sub acute rehab center, they will supply
you with equipment
If you are going home, we would recommend the following: