This form was created to help you successfully plan for your upcoming surgery. The best use for this form is to answer the questions to the best of your ability so that your physical therapist can clarify what is needed and what next steps should be taken at your pre-operative physical therapy session prior to surgery.
Do you have surgical precautions? With an Anterior Approach Total Hip Replacement, you may be asked to avoid combined hip external rotation and extension, however, some surgeons have no precautions.
Do you have someone to pick you up from surgery?
What kind of car will you be picked up in? If it’s too low, it can be aggravating to your incision. If it is too high, you can stand on a curb and have your kin drive up to you.
Will someone stay with you for 48 hours minimum? Are they willing to take out the garbage, make lunch, etc.?
Did you already fill your pain medication prescription, so you have it post-op?
Did you schedule your post-op visit with the doctor?
Do you own an ice pack or will you be provided with one post-op?
Do you have meals in the freezer? How about clean bedsheets ready for after surgery?
Have you arranged care for your pets (inside or outside the home) and removed any loose throw rugs so you don’t trip?
Do you have a reacher? How about a long shoehorn? A raised toilet seat? These items aren’t mandatory for your specific surgery but can be quite helpful.
Do you have supportive footwear for post-op. Slippers can “slip”. Please no high heel shoes. Sneakers are best. If you are too swollen after surgery, you can lace your shoes like the rungs of a ladder and skip a few eyelets (the holes the laces go through).
Do you have stairs? If so, how many? Is there a rail? If so, what side is it on?
Do you have a walker now or will one be provided for you post-op? Do you have a cane for when it’s time to transition? With your surgery, the need for a cane depends on your balance before surgery. If unsure, get a cane.
Are you scheduled for physical therapy? Physical Therapy after a hip replacement (which is a very good idea) usually occurs 2 weeks after with attendance every 1-2 weeks.
Do you have a ride to PT?
It’s important to find a physical therapy company who looks at you as a whole, and not just as a total hip. That’s why we developed this questionnaire because there is a lot more that physical therapists can help you be prepared for than simply just the exercises after physical therapy. If you’re considering a total hip replacement, we’d love to help you with your rehabilitation afterward.