Avoiding Falls While Recovering from Joint Surgery

After going through hip or knee replacement surgery, the last thing you want to do is fall while you’re still recovering. 

In addition to how painful this would be, a resulting injury, particularly a fracture, could complicate and prolong your recovery.

Your physical and occupational therapists will determine what other durable medical equipment (DME) you may need after your surgery based on your progress and your home situation. Keep in mind that many insurance companies do not cover this type of equipment.

You may be advised to get or be sent home from the hospital with:

• Shower bench or chair

• Grab bars in the shower

• Raised toilet seat

• Chair (with arms) that is not low or too soft (opt for a firm cushion)

• ADL kit, which typically includes a dressing stick, sock aid, shoe horn and grabber

More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falls, according to the American Physical Therapy Association.

More Safety Measures for Your Home

If you didn’t prepare your home before your surgery, ask your family or caregiver to consider putting the following safety measures in place:

• Remove any sliding doors from your shower and replace them temporarily with a shower curtain.

• Put nightlights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallway and make sure the floors are clear of objects, wires and area rugs that you could trip on.

• Move frequently used objects in your bedroom, bathroom and kitchen to waist level so you won’t have to reach for them.

Your clinical care coordinator, physical therapist or occupational therapist will talk more with you about how to ensure that your home is safe for you upon discharge.

This service is not intended to provide individual medical advice, which should only be obtained directly from a qualified physician or healthcare professional. Your personal information will never be used for any purpose other than to help educate and support you. You may opt out at any time with no effect to the delivery of your care or health benefits.