Bathing after two hip replacements

Posted , 7 users are following.

I had both hips replaced. First one in May 2016, followed by second in May 2018. I am physically fit, and upper body strength is good. Since the second hip replacement eight months ago, I have only used the shower, but would really like to start using my bathtub.

Does anyone know the safest means of exiting the bath? The first replacement was the right hip and the second - left. Means of exit would be from the left of the tub. Physio doesn't cover this due to lack of facilities. obviously. They suggest Social Services. The last thing I want is to have SS poking around in my life. I went through that with my Mother, and it was dire.

I have considered attempting it myself, fully dressed, but with bare feet, and leaving patio doors open and taking a phone into the bathroom with me, in case I become stuck, but am reluctant to attempt this without some sort of positive or negative feedback. Fear of dislocation, is of course, the main issue.

Many thanks

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi, Luckily I had my second bathroom converted to a walk in shower just months before my op without even thinking. Prior to that I had two over bath showers which would have been a major problem especially as I have no grab rails. I am not a bath fan so it isnt a problem to me but be careful, make sure you use a good anti slip suction rubber mat in the bath and that you have something to hold onto getting in and out of the bath. I remember my mother in law getting stuck in the bath many years ago and she didnt have a phone and literally sat there until someone came which was almost a day thank goodness no longer.

  • Posted

    Perhaps I've not correctly understood but if you really are physically fit with good upper body strength surely you should have no problem getting out unaided. If you envisage a problem how about fixing a grab rail to aid your getting up from a sitting. position? Cheers, Richard

  • Posted

    I hope to use the bath too? not used it for a long time due to hip problems, I just had right hip replacement 7 weeks ago and having my left hip done on 18th February. Lets hope there is a way please keep me posted thanks

    Cyndey

  • Posted

    hi, I am 6 weeks post op after THR and my physio showed me how to get up and out the bath. i exit on the left and it was my right hip that was replaced. I sit with my feet up against the end of the bath and bend my 'good' leg first bringing my knee really up, I then slightly bring my right knee up but about halfway only. using my hands on the top side of the bath (make sure u dry them and your hands with a flannel to ensure u dont slip) I push up with my arms along with a push up with my left leg into a semi crouch and I then push up to stand. I am lucky that I have long legs so it makes the actual getting out a bit easier. once I have my left leg out, i put my right knee on the bath panel and slide my leg over. sounds a lot but it really was not hard to do. I have been able to do this since week 3. I make sure someone is in the house with me though, just to be on the safe side.

  • Posted

    sit on the floor to check if you feel secure enough. i installed extra handles along the walls to grip as entering and exiting the tub makes it easier to have a good hold on something . a good soak works wonders.

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