Planning for Total Hip Replacement Baltimore MD

Having a surgical procedure that is bound to be at least somewhat painful and expensive is definitely not anyone’s idea of fun.  The good news is, those who need to have a total hip replacement Baltimore MD can make the experience more manageable by doing some planning and organizing a few weeks before the surgery takes place.  The goal of the surgery is to reduce or eliminate pain and restore as much functioning and quality of life as possible for the patient.  Again, well over 90% of people who have a total hip replacement surgery Baltimore are happy with the outcome.  Still, there will be a period of recovery requiring support and planning in order to get to that point.

Recovering from Hip Replacement Surgery Baltimore

Here are a few points to keep in mind when planning a successful recovery from hip replacement surgery:

• Most patients plan to return home at some point after surgery.  Therefore, home is the best place to start planning for a smooth recovery.  There are a few accommodations that need to be in place before surgery.  Moving to a downstairs bedroom near the rest room will be necessary throughout the recovery period.  So will elevating toilet seats, and having at least one fairly high, straight-backed chair.  Installing grab bars in the tub and shower area is a great safety-enhancement for any home.
• Go shopping and stock up on non-perishable items like dry soup mixes and canned goods, or anything the individual likes that can be frozen.  Consider whether the individual will be responsible for all of their own food preparation after returning home.  If so, some items that are quicker and easier to prepare may be desirable.  Good nutrition should also be a consideration because it supports the body’s recovery.
• Schedule some support people for help at home, whether they are family and friends or people who are hired through an agency.  Hip replacement patients cannot drive for at least six weeks after the surgery; so it is desirable to have someone who is willing to help them get out of the house from time to time.