Dos and don’ts (precautions after hip replacement surgery) vary depending on your hip replacement surgeon technique. Your surgeon and physical therapist will provide you with a list of precautions to remember with your new hip. These precautions will help to prevent the new joint from dislocating and ensure proper healing. Below we have mentioned some of the most common precautions:
The Don’ts After Hip Replacement Surgery
- Don’t cross your legs at the knees for at least 6 to 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 degrees.
The Dos After Hip Replacement Surgery
- 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!
