Thinking ahead is always a good idea—especially when it comes to planning for your rehabilitation after knee replacement surgery. It’s going to take some time for you to recover, and it’s important to arrange your house in a way that’s going to make your recovery as smooth as possible. You’re also going to need to purchase certain items to help you as well. The time to do this is before your surgery, when you are able to move about more easily.
Preparing Your Home1 2
- Since stairs may be difficult to use in the days after surgery, you may want to set up living quarters on one floor of your house. Pick a place close to the bathroom and kitchen.
- Be sure that every staircase you’re going to use has a strong, secure railing. This even goes for small, three-step stairways, like the one in front of many homes. If you can’'t put in a railing, consider installing a temporary ramp.
- Get rid of clutter. Anything that could potentially get in your way should be put away in a cupboard. Remember, you’re going to be moving using a walker or crutches.
- Remove throw rugs and move or tape down electrical cords to avoid tripping.
- Put items you use often within easy reach—between waist and shoulder level.
Special Equipment
These items can help make your recovery at home easier.
- Grab bars. These will help you get into and out of the bath or shower without falling. A physical therapist can tell you where these should be placed.
- An elevated toilet seat. This will make it easier to go the bathroom after surgery. These can be purchased online or at hospital equipment stores.
- An adjustable, waterproof shower bench. This will allow you to sit while taking a shower.
- A walker, crutches or a cane. Discuss with your surgeon or GP which would be best for you. Then, before your surgery, practice getting around your house using the device.
- A cordless phone. This will give you phone access anywhere in the house for greater independence and safety.
- A grabber. This will help you reach things on the floor or high over your head without bending or straining.
- A sock helper. This is a device that can help you put on and take off socks without bending.
- Shoes or slippers that slide on and off. Tying shoes will be too difficult for a while. Find slippers that fit snugly so they don’t slide off when you’re walking and cause you to trip.
- Learn what you can expect from your hospital stay
- Learn some dos and don’ts to follow after your surgery
