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The new joint has a
limited range of movement. You will need to take special precautions
to avoid displacing the joint, including:
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Avoid crossing your legs or ankles even when sitting,
standing, or lying.
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When sitting, keep you feet about 6 inches apart.
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When sitting, keep your knees below the level of your hips.
Avoid chairs that are too low. You may sit on a pillow to keep
your hips higher than your knees.
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When getting up from a chair, slide toward the edge of the
chair and then use your walker or crutches for support.
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Avoid bending over at the waist. You may consider purchasing
a long-handled shoehorn or a sock aid to help you put on and
take off your shoes and socks without bending over. Also, an
extension "reacher" or "grabber" may be helpful for picking up
objects that are too low for you to reach.
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When lying in bed, place a pillow between your legs to keep
the joint in proper alignment.
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A special abductor pillow or splint may be used to keep the
hip in correct alignment.
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An elevated toilet seat may be necessary to keep the knees
lower than the hips when sitting on the toilet.
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Always place a pillow between your legs when
turning onto your side while in bed. You should use the pillow
for about 3 months following surgery.
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Do not sleep on your operated side for 6
weeks.
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Use your crutches or walker to assist you
while walking.
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Continue to wear your TEDs for about 6 weeks
after your surgery.
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Continue your anticoagulation for 6 weeks
after your surgery.
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Keep feet/toes pointed straight ahead when
walking.
The following tips can make your homecoming
easier.
In the kitchen (and in other rooms as well), place items you use
frequently within reach so you don't have to reach up or bend down.
Rearrange furniture so you can get about on a walker or crutches.
You may want to change rooms (make the living room your bedroom, for
example) to stay off the stairs.
Get a good chair, one that is firm and has a higher-than-average
seat. This type of chair is safer and more comfortable than a low,
soft-cushioned chair.
Remove any throw rugs or area rugs that could cause you to slip.
Securely fasten electrical cords around the perimeter of the room.
Install a shower chair, grab bar and raised toilet in the bathroom.
Use assistive devices such as a long-handled shoehorn, a
long-handled sponge and a grabbing tool or reacher to avoid bending
too far over. Wear a big-pocket shirt or soft shoulder bag for
carrying things.
Set up a "recovery center" in your home, with a phone, television
remote control, radio, facial tissues, wastebasket, pitcher and
glass, reading materials and medications within easy reach.
Activities at home
Keep the skin clean and dry. The dressing applied in the
hospital should be changed as necessary. Ask for instructions on how
to change the dressing if you are not sure.
If you have stitches that need to be removed, your surgeon will give
you specific instructions about the incision and when you can bathe.
X-rays will be taken later to ensure that the joint is healing
properly.
Notify your doctor if the wound appears red or begins to drain.
Take your temperature twice daily and notify your doctor if it
exceeds 100.5°F.
Swelling is normal for the first 3 to 6 months after surgery.
Elevate your leg slightly and apply an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes
at a time, a few times a day.
Calf pain, chest pain and shortness of breath are signs of a
possible blood clot. Notify your doctor immediately if you notice
any of these symptoms.
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