After total hip replacement you have hip precautions for 6-12 weeks: don’t bend more than 90 degrees, don’t cross your legs, don’t twist. Your home needs five physical changes installed BEFORE surgery: raised toilet seat (or 3-in-1 commode), shower bench + handheld shower, grab bars in shower and beside toilet, a recliner or wedge to prevent flat-on-back hip flexion, removed throw rugs and clear pathways for the walker.
The 5 things to install BEFORE surgery
1. Raised toilet seat (3-4 inches)
A standard toilet is too low — sitting requires your hip to flex past 90 degrees. A raised toilet seat OR a 3-in-1 commode placed over the toilet keeps you within hip precautions.
Buy: $30-80 at any medical supply store. Often covered by insurance with a prescription.
2. Grab bar(s) — shower wall + beside toilet
One in the shower (vertical or angled). One beside the toilet. Both should be properly installed into studs or with toggle bolts rated for 250+ lbs. Suction-cup grab bars are NOT safe for body weight.
Hire a handyman if you’re not confident installing grab bars. The investment ($50-150 + labor) prevents a fall that could undo the surgery.
3. Shower bench / shower chair
Bathing standing up after hip replacement isn’t safe for the first several weeks. A shower bench with back support (transfer bench works for tubs) lets you sit and bathe.
Pair with a handheld shower head — install the slide-bar adapter so the head can detach.
4. A recliner with armrests
You shouldn’t be flat on your back for long stretches because of clot risk and limited mobility. A recliner provides:
- The 45-degree angle that’s comfortable
- Armrests to push up from (preserving hip precautions)
- Footrest for elevation when needed
If a recliner isn’t an option: a high firm chair with arms + a wedge pillow on the bed.
5. Clear pathways + remove throw rugs
Walker pathways need to be 36 inches wide. Throw rugs are fall hazards. Pre-walk every path you’ll need: bedroom-bathroom, bedroom-kitchen, kitchen-couch. Remove obstacles.
Hip precautions — what they actually mean
Posterior approach hip replacement (most common) usually has these precautions for 6-12 weeks:
Anterior approach has fewer precautions; ask YOUR surgeon what applies to YOU. Don’t assume.
Tools you’ll need (separate from home install)
Sleeping setup
Sleep on your back, flat OR with a slight elevation. A pillow BETWEEN your knees prevents adduction (legs crossing) during sleep. Most patients are advised NOT to sleep on the operative side for 4-6 weeks.
Set this up beforehand: an extra firm pillow between the knees, the right pillow stack to keep you on your back, an alarm to remember to roll periodically (don’t lay still for 8 hours straight).
The pre-op shopping list (printable)
- Raised toilet seat or 3-in-1 commode
- 2x grab bars (toilet + shower)
- Shower bench / chair
- Handheld shower head + adapter
- Reacher / grabber tool
- Long-handled shoehorn
- Sock aid
- Long-handled sponge
- Walker bag
- 4-5 pull-on pants 2 sizes up (waist will swell)
- 4-5 oversized t-shirts
- Slip-on shoes
- Stool softener + your prescribed pain meds
- Ice packs (8-10) or rental ice machine
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Inspired Comforts collection.
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Sources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons — Total Hip Replacement
- American Physical Therapy Association — apta.org
