A list of handy tips and tricks to consider when undergoing a hip replacement or DDH treatment.
3 key rules...
1) Do your research
And I mean research everything! The consultant or doctor you go to see, other peoples experiences, what to expect with different procedures...
This blog has been designed to stop you having to look too far and as a good starting point, but you should always be sure to do some research yourself.
2) Get a second opinion
Every story is different and therefore every treatment path is different! There is no hard and fast route for everyone to follow and Doctors will also have varying views on what is best for you or your child.
3) Prepare, prepare, prepare!
Being prepared is key and can make you recovery a lot easier. Due to my previous reconstructive surgeries this replacement is taking place on already distressed bone and therefore recovery can take longer and have a different path. Below I will include a list of things I have used to make my recovery easier. Practice using your crutches if these are new to you and maybe even take a day so your friends/family can also work out what will be the best post-op.
3 key rules...
1) Do your research
And I mean research everything! The consultant or doctor you go to see, other peoples experiences, what to expect with different procedures...
This blog has been designed to stop you having to look too far and as a good starting point, but you should always be sure to do some research yourself.
2) Get a second opinion
Every story is different and therefore every treatment path is different! There is no hard and fast route for everyone to follow and Doctors will also have varying views on what is best for you or your child.
3) Prepare, prepare, prepare!
Being prepared is key and can make you recovery a lot easier. Due to my previous reconstructive surgeries this replacement is taking place on already distressed bone and therefore recovery can take longer and have a different path. Below I will include a list of things I have used to make my recovery easier. Practice using your crutches if these are new to you and maybe even take a day so your friends/family can also work out what will be the best post-op.
Bits and bobs to buy...
Money isn't everything, but it does make the recovery easier by buying things that will help you. This list will continue to evolve as I learn more...
- Raised toilet seat: this is a must, don't be the soldier that thinks, 'oh I won't need one', you will!
- Crutches: you will have to use these so buy a pair with a good grip and comfy handles, your hands will thank you. (TIP: when using a push door go through backwards, use your bum and body weight to push the door open. When using a pull door, if it opens to the left open the door with your right hand and prop the door open with your left crutch - do the opposite for a right side opening door)
- Comfy sports (not fashion) trainers: you will have enough to worry about and uncomfy shoes shouldn't be one of them, these will also be needed for physio.
- A "grabber" - Sitting on the sofa not being able to reach the remote so watching three episodes of Jeremy Kyle on the trot is definitely worth the £2/3. On a more serious note you can buy ones that double as an extra long shoe horn so shop wisely.
- A shower seat: Falling over in the shower from poor footing isn't worth it, stay off your feet with the seat
- Loose fitting clothes: My leg swelling actually wasn't too bad, but I was extremely bloated
- Backpack: handbags and crutches do not mix, you need your hands free to use your crutches
- Waterbottle: a tightly water-tight bottle so you can put it on your backpack and carry it around
- Thermos flask: nothing is more frustrating than making a cup of tea and not being able to take it where you want
- Food that makes you feel good: The pain meds put me off my food so eat what makes you feel good to keep your strength
- A helping hand: you will be surprised at the things that are challenging in the first few weeks, have someone there to help
- A comfy chair: having a numb bum is bad enough at the best of times let alone newly post hip op
Money isn't everything, but it does make the recovery easier by buying things that will help you. This list will continue to evolve as I learn more...
- Raised toilet seat: this is a must, don't be the soldier that thinks, 'oh I won't need one', you will!
- Crutches: you will have to use these so buy a pair with a good grip and comfy handles, your hands will thank you. (TIP: when using a push door go through backwards, use your bum and body weight to push the door open. When using a pull door, if it opens to the left open the door with your right hand and prop the door open with your left crutch - do the opposite for a right side opening door)
- Comfy sports (not fashion) trainers: you will have enough to worry about and uncomfy shoes shouldn't be one of them, these will also be needed for physio.
- A "grabber" - Sitting on the sofa not being able to reach the remote so watching three episodes of Jeremy Kyle on the trot is definitely worth the £2/3. On a more serious note you can buy ones that double as an extra long shoe horn so shop wisely.
- A shower seat: Falling over in the shower from poor footing isn't worth it, stay off your feet with the seat
- Loose fitting clothes: My leg swelling actually wasn't too bad, but I was extremely bloated
- Backpack: handbags and crutches do not mix, you need your hands free to use your crutches
- Waterbottle: a tightly water-tight bottle so you can put it on your backpack and carry it around
- Thermos flask: nothing is more frustrating than making a cup of tea and not being able to take it where you want
- Food that makes you feel good: The pain meds put me off my food so eat what makes you feel good to keep your strength
- A helping hand: you will be surprised at the things that are challenging in the first few weeks, have someone there to help
- A comfy chair: having a numb bum is bad enough at the best of times let alone newly post hip op