After Surgery
total knee replacement | total hip replacement
Total Hip Replacement
Following Hip Replacement surgery, the precautions outlined below should be followed for at least the next three months to reduce the risk of dislocation, unless you are otherwise advised:-
Precautions:- (Should be followed for at least six weeks after your operation)
- DO NOT sit or lie with your legs crossed. It is bad for your circulation and new hip.
- DO NOT bend down towards your feet or bend your knee up to your chin. (You SHOULD NOT bend your hip beyond a 90 degree angle).
- DO NOT twist your new hip. Take small steps when turning around.
- DO NOT kneel down.
- DO NOT stand for long periods. When standing ensure your weight is evenly distributed through both legs.
Sitting
Avoid sitting in a low chair. Always make sure your hip is higher than your knee. Sit with your weight taken equally through both buttocks. An armchair with a high firm seat is recommended.
Standing
DO NOT stand for long periods. Stand with your weight taken equally through both legs. DO NOT bend forward from the waist when standing without bending your knees or extending your operated leg out behind you.
Walking
DO NOT discard your walking aids (crutches, sticks, zimmer frame) until instructed by the physiotherapist. Gradually increase the amount of walking you do each day. You are advised to remove any rugs within your home and tape down any loose carpets.
Stairs
The physiotherapist will demonstrate and assess you on the stairs before you go home. This will be completed using one bannister rail and one walking aid. When going UP each step - lead with the UNOPERATED leg. When going DO WN each step - lead with the OPERATED leg.
Bed
Make sure your bed is of an adequate height. Get in/out of bed on the same side as your operation. Sleep on your back. Do not cross your legs in bed. Try to keep your legs slightly apart. (Putting a pillow between your legs may help with this).
Toilet
The Occupational Therapist will discuss with you the height of your toilet at home. If it is too low, or if you have difficulty getting on/off, you may be provided with a raised seat or scandia toilet frame.
Bath
The Occupational Therapist will discuss this with you. You are advised not to sit in the bath for at least three months following your operation. Have a 'stand up wash' at the sink for this period. To wash below the knees a long handled sponge may be used (These can be bought from your local chemist). You may stand in a walk-in shower.
Dressing
- Dress sitting down. Always dress your OPERATED leg FIRST and UNDRESS IT LAST.
- DO NOT bend forward to reach your feet.
- DO NOT bend your knee up to your chin to reach your feet.
- Avoid tight corsets.
- Wear good supporting shoes.
You will be encouraged to dress yourself once you are allowed to sit out of bed. The Occupational therapist will show you how to get dressed whilst you are in hospital. (Please bring a set of clothes into hospital).
Housework
Sit whenever possible to do your housework. DO NOT over reach or twist. Re-arrange items in the kitchen so that they are not in low cupboards, but are at hand. Spread household chores over a period of time, so you do not become over-tired.
Driving
You are advised not to drive for at least six weeks following your operation. Please check at your post operative out patient clinic review when it is possible to resume driving.
Gardening
Do not garden for at least three months. From six weeks after the operation normal activities/hobbies, (including a normal sex life), should be possible. However always avoid placing too much strain on the operated leg.
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