How to Prepare Your Home Before Hip- or Knee-Replacement Surgery

After surgery, you’ll use either a walker or crutches to get around; both require more space than you typically use when walking. So make sure pathways between rooms are clear, and remove loose rugs to prevent falls.

In the kitchen, keep the appliances you use most within close reach. For many people, this means keeping the coffee maker and toaster on the counter. Consider stocking up on snacks and easy heat-and-eat meal options for convenience. Even if you like to shop and cook, you likely won’t feel as inclined to do so during your initial recovery.

When it comes to showering, most people can shower as usual after surgery, so special equipment isn't needed. However, if you like long showers, a shower chair is a nice addition. In most cases, there are no restrictions on using a low toilet seat, but standing up is easier from a higher seat. A toilet riser, which adds two to four inches of height, can be installed fairly easily. But we know that every patient's surgery and recovery are unique, so our team will let you know if special equipment for showering and toileting is recommended.

In most cases, patients can bear their full weight on the leg that underwent surgery. This means you’ll likely be allowed to use stairs. But rest assured, our team members will teach you how to navigate up and down stairs safely using both hands for support.

The good news is that after surgery, most patients are relatively mobile and independent when using a walker or crutches. But during the first several weeks, you likely won’t have as much energy. This is a great opportunity to let a loved one take on some daily activities, like cooking, cleaning and doing laundry. Remember, you aren’t a burden, and it’s OK to accept help. You’re giving your body the rest it needs to recover and come back stronger and healthier.

You also won’t be able to drive for several weeks, so you’ll need a loved one to drive you to your follow-up appointments and anywhere else you need to go. You can expect to be driving again in two to four weeks after surgery. Loved ones can also help by tracking your medications. Doing so ensures you take the proper doses at the right times and that you have a record of each medication you take for your doctor to review with you at follow-up appointments.

If you live alone, we recommend three key preparations before your surgery. First, arrange a ride to and from the hospital. Some insurers cover medical transportation, so be sure to check with your company.

We also recommend planning and cooking your meals in advance. Carrying a plate of food while using a walker or crutches can be difficult, so try to cook foods that are easy to carry. Consider portioning your meals into storage containers with lids for easy access and transport. Sealed containers can be carried in a bag to make transporting the meal safer and to avoid spills.

Consider identifying who can be "on call" in case you need help. Having this in place will put your mind at ease, knowing that help is always close by.

The good news is that many in-home services are available to support post-surgery care. Most insurances cover physical therapy, occupational therapy and nursing if you're considered homebound after surgery.

If in-home support after surgery is part of your plan, keep in mind that skilled providers typically visit only for short periods during the week. They aren't meant to be a substitute for 24-hour care. If needed, you can hire a local company for support with housekeeping, meals, transportation, medication management and companionship. Nonskilled services like these are typically paid out of pocket.

If in-home support is needed, our CJR (Colorado Joint Replacement) team can connect you with resources. Our physical therapist and case manager, Kelley Walter, can help identify what you need and set you up with the appropriate provider. You can talk through your concerns with her at your pre-operative appointment or call her at Call720-524-1367 during office hours before surgery.

Recovery times vary from person to person, so there isn't a set timeline. For lower-extremity joint replacements, most patients can resume normal activities within three to four months, with full recovery taking up to a year. It's important to give yourself grace — your body is healing and regaining strength.

People with physically demanding jobs, such as those who spend all day on their feet or do heavy manual labor, should plan to take at least six weeks off work. Workers in more sedentary jobs are encouraged to take at least two weeks off to focus on recovery.

After knee- or hip-replacement surgery, you need to ice and elevate your leg for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours. Most patients say this is easier if you set up a comfortable spot where you can lie down and elevate your leg higher than your heart. Use multiple pillows to get your position just right. Some find that a wedge pillow helps maintain elevation comfortably.