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:

cane