Follow these simple steps to ensure a quicker recovery
Take care at home.
the first few weeks
The AMIS technique results in a very stable hip replacement.
– Mobilisation is allowed within the limits of the patient. –
Stay Mobile
The more walking the better! Go out for a walk every day. Walking is the best rehabilitation. Avoid stamping your feet. Patients are encouraged to continue with mobilisation at home as far as is comfortable.
Driving
In the car, pivot with both legs tight to get in or out of the car. Move the seat as far back as possible.
Outside
Do not take long strides, even to avoid an obstacle. At the beginning, prefer level ground. Do not carry heavy loads or bulky packages. Take these precautions when doing odd jobs or housework. Use long handles to avoid bending down.
Around The Bed
Preferably lie flat on your back with a pillow under the operated hip's leg. Do not lie on your side for the first two weeks. To get out of bed, pivot your buttocks to the operated side with your legs straight and your knees tight. Sit on the edge of the bed and get up with the help of your arms.
At the House
Sit on high seats with armrests: avoid low, soft armchairs. Use armrests as supports to get up. To pick up an object, use a helping hand to avoid bending down. If not, use the safety position: operated leg behind. When using stairs, hold a crutch on the operated side and the banister on the other side. Place your good leg on the first step, whether you go up or down stairs.
Bathroom
Have a support installed to help you up from the toilet and over the edge of the bath. Use shower with non slip mat.
Metal Detectors
Are you planning on flying soon? Make sure that you speak to Dr. Jan about a special card that lets airport officials know that you have metal hip or knee prosthesis and prevents scrutiny at airports.
Wound Dressing
After the operation the wound is sterilely dressed in theatre. This dressing will be replaced in the ward before your discharge. The new dressing will be a waterproof dressing. Make sure that this dressing does not come loose, but just in case, you will be provided with a spare dressing. Dr Joubert will personally remove the dressing and inspect the wound at the routine three week follow-up visit.
Getting Dressed
Begin dressing with operated leg. Always avoid crossing your operating leg over your mid line. Never reach for your foot around the outside of your knee.Always reach down between your knees. This will prevent your leg crossing the midline.
looking after your prosthesiS
Your prosthesis requires regular care.
Accidents can happen. Prevention is the best way to avoid parting with this prosthesis too quickly.
Look out for the following
In case of feverishness, throat inflammation, pulmonary inflammation or the like, tell your doctor about your prosthesis, so that it can be protected by systemic antibiotic therapy if needed.
Prosthesis wear is a normal process, which must be controlled. During the first 15 years, your prosthesis will be checked for wear every 5 years. After the 15th year, the checks will be made every 2 years. Check your diary in order not to forget the next check.
Osteoporosis may affect this hip and increase the risk of fracture and loosening. Have bone densitometry performed regularly and follow the treatments prescribed to avoid these accidents.
take Precautions
- Every 6 months, have your teeth checked by a dentist
- See a chiropodist every month for care and treatment for your feet
- Gentlemen, have your prostate checked every year
- Ladies, re-educate your bladder to avoid urinary incontinence which may result in infection
- Never accept intermuscular injection into the operated buttock