Rehabilitation in the Hospital - Surgical Guide to Left Anterior Total Hip Replacement
Your rehabilitation program starts in the hospital. The goal for most of our patients is to stand and take a few steps within the first few hours after surgery. It is crucial that you actively participate in your physical therapy program. It is very important for the success of your surgery and your overall recovery. Plan to play an active role from the start! A physical therapist or rehabilitation nurse will help you with:
- Sitting on the side of the bed with your feet on the floor.
- Transferring in and out of bed safely.
- Walking with the aid of a device (walker, cane, or crutches).
- Climbing stairs (physical therapist only).
The therapist may instruct you in daily activities such as getting in and out of a car, bathing, showering, getting dressed, and using the toilet. The use of a high-chair and high toilette seat may be recommended by your surgeon. This is based on the specific precautions your surgeon gives you.
Beginning to Walk
Do not get into or out of bed by yourself! Our team of mobility specialists will help you get out of bed and walk with an assistive device. The amount of weight you can support with your operated leg will depend on your surgery. Your physical therapist will give you precise instructions on how much weight you can bear.
Before you leave the hospital, you will also practice how to go up and down stairs. It is likely you will do well enough to go home on the same day as your surgery. If you end up staying, we encourage you to get out of bed with the help of nursing staff throughout the day.
Call Don't Fall
- Always make sure to ring your call bell for nursing or physical therapy staff for assistance getting in and out of bed.
- A staff member must remain within your reach while maintaining your privacy and dignity during patient toileting.
Looking Ahead
Before leaving the Hospital, your nurse will review your discharge instructions with you. Your physical therapist will also review your home exercise program. Remember, YOU make the difference! The earlier you are able to get moving, the quicker you will improve and the more likely you are to have a good outcome.
Getting Into and Out of a Car/Traveling by Car
Your physical therapist will show you how to get in and out of the car before you are discharged.
Be sure to remind whoever is picking you up to bring two pillows for comfort.
Sit in the front passenger seat. Make sure the car seat is all the way back and slightly reclined before you sit.
In a regular car, enter from the street level rather than the curb to avoid bending your joint too much.
In an SUV, you may need to enter from the curb to make it easier to get into the car.