Help after hip replacement

Hi Betty, it’s great that you can come over for 3 weeks, and that your husband will be to come after that if necessary. If your dad is reasonably fit and healthy, hopefully it will all go smoothly for him. See if you can get him back on his exercises now, before his op. I had exercises to do pre op, and I think it makes a big difference. My recovery was v straight forward, much better than I was expecting. First week or so is tough, but things like the stairs weren’t really an issue. Depending on where he lives, he should be supplied with loo seat raisers, perching chair etc. A company came and raised our sofa and bed. I hated having to sleep on my back, but it does gradually get better. Having a shower over a bath is tricky, and I needed my husband to help me in and out using kids steps. (My sister though, who had her hip replaced 5 weeks ago, finds it workable just sitting on the edge of the bath, and swinging her legs over.)

 I wish your dad all the best,

Love Judith

Ps grabber v important!

Depending on your Dad's financial status, he may qualify for help from social services, who will assist with mobility aides and anything else needed following his operation. When he goes for his pre-op assessment the physio team should speak with him to ascertain his requirements. Tell him not to be shy in asking for help. Never know what help he may need further down the line.

Hi all! just wanted to give an update.

My dad had his THR on his left hip, 3 weeks this Tuesday.

I stayed with him up until Saturday (just gone), and I have no doubt he will do fine! The operation went amazingly well, and other than the first night home getting in to bed, he has had little to no pain.

He had his staples taken out a week ago, and was told by the physiotherapist that he is about 30% ahead of where most people are at this stage!! He takes multiple short walks a day, and although he uses at least one crutch most of the time to be safe, he can actually get around without them.

He's in pretty good spirits, but is frustrated that he cant drive and absolutely hates sleeping on hos back, so as soon as those 2 things are back to normal, I think he'll be great. And even better, he already has a consult for hos other hip, so will probably have the op for that in February - hopefully that goes just as well!!

Thanks again for everybody's advice and support - it all really helped!!

Laura