WHAT SHOULD I DO AT HOME? (Weeks 1-2):
- Take 10 deep breaths every hour while you’re awake
- Get up and walk a minimum of 5 minutes every hour while awake. This helps decrease the risk of blood clots
- Use an assistive device such as a walker or cane if recommended. For all hip replacements, I recommend you use a walker or cane for a month after surgery. One of the worst things that can happen during this period is for you to fall
- When sitting or lying down, elevate your leg to the level of your heart (or above that) at all times. This helps decrease your swelling, which will help decrease your pain
- If you think you’re elevating your leg enough…put ANOTHER pillow under there!
- Ice your knee for 30-45 minutes ON and 30 minutes off with an ice pack, every day, all day. You can place a towel or flexible wrap over your skin to prevent frostbite from the ice pack.
- Please wear thigh high compression stockings on both legs for 4 weeks. This not only improves your swelling and pain, but also decreases your risk of blood clots
- If you have difficulty sleeping in these, you may take them off at night as long as you are elevating
- If you are struggling to get the compression stockings on, you can use an ACE bandage. It should be wrapped snugly but not too tight to restrict blood flow. It should feel like you’re wearing a sweater that’s only 1 size too small for your leg.
- Sleep in whatever position is comfortable. We recommend sleeping on your back with a pillow under your ANKLE or CALF. NEVER sleep with a pillow under your knee! The knee should be as straight as possible during sleep.
