@Poodle3 I noticed right away that our left THR is on the same day, as is
@skigirl, as
@Layla said. As you can see, I had a right THR on 3/23/22. Both are anterior. The recovery from the right replacement was quite smooth. I had been sailing along, probably still under the influence of the pain meds I was given while in my overnight stay at the hospital, so I was unprepared for having more pain and swelling on the third, fourth, and fifth days. But now I know to expect that possibility this time. After the first week, I do not recall being uncomfortable at all.
I’m sure there
have been a lot of advancements since 2011. If my experience is typical, I don’t think you need to be nervous. And you will note I am four years older than you.
Here is the link for the ice packs I ordered from Amazon.
I ordered the 11 x 14.5 inch (2 pack). They are very similar to those in the post by
@CricketHip, but are a bit less expensive per pad for two. I wrap each pad in a light-weight kitchen dish towel before using to prevent an ice burn. I received an gel pack holder from the hospital that contained two connected pockets, sewn down the middle with Velcro closures at the top of each pocket for easy removal, as described by
@Layla. I was given four gel packs so two could be in the freezer while I was using two. Each pad is smaller than the ones I ordered from Amazon, and there is an area between the two pockets that is fabric and flexible. My original intent was to order more refills for the holder I received from the hospital, but I decided I would like the larger packs, particularly since I had four packs for the holder. I used the larger gel packs almost exclusively.
I have a grabber that I ordered from Amazon. It is very useful for retrieving things from the floor. I still use it every day. My physical therapist gave me a sock assist (for use in pulling on socks), a leg lifter, and a dressing stick. It was nice to not have to pay for them. I also have a walker and canes, which I used after I didn’t need the walker.
I did not push myself to do physical activities, such as cleaning the house and standing up for long periods of time, until my hip had time to recover. I think that those things can wait until after recovery.
As suggested by another person on the forum, I purchased a Pride lift chair. The one I purchased reclines to almost flat, and I sleep in it. The extension for the legs, the back, the head area, and the lumbar support all operate separately. I think it has made my recovery more comfortable. Unfortunately, Medicare only pays around $300 for some mechanical part of the chair.
I look forward to following your recovery as we travel the road together.
United States
