When can I get in a bath?

Posted , 5 users are following.

I am 4 weeks post op. My daughter is picking me up and taking me to hers for a shower as she has a walk in shower. Ours is over the bath. When will I feel confident enough to get into the bath. I'm still on two crutches when I go out, but on one indoors.

 

2 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi stephie

    Get a bath board. It goes right across the bath. Sit on it by approaching backwards and steady yourself by putting oone hand on the grab rail or bath handle. Knees together, swing legs into bath then you can stand and shower. Sit down to get out of the bath. Try it clothed with someone on hand to lift your leg if you feel you are stuck.

    Actual bathing..I think I was about 8 weeks but could do the bathboard from day 3

    Bathboards from any mobility shop or online

    Take care

    Kate x

  • Posted

    Hi Stephie

    The problem is that you cannot put full weight on the operated leg for about 6 weeks.

    The way kate has described will get you into the bath without standing on one leg.

    Lifting the leg out over the side of the bath could be a bit tricky too but you can always lift it by looping a towel behind your knee and hoisting it up yourself or get a friend to do it for you.

    Hope you enjoy your first good soak. Obviously your scar has to be healed and waterproof first or you might get infection in the wound.

    Shirley

  • Posted

    I have an over bath shower too and got in it at week 3 after the dressing was taken off. Didn't really have a problem. I put my hane on the radiator/towel rail, put my good leg in and lifted my opertaed leg out behing me and swing it in. Did the same in reverse getting out. Had husband standing by the first time but was OK after that.
  • Posted

    hi stephie, 

    wow girl, you are doing good !!!

    have someone with you the first couple of times okay - I have a walk in cabin shower and had home healtch nurse assist  for a couple of times because i did not feel confident enough - 

    easy does it and enjoy ...

    big warm hug

    renee

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