Home Safety After Joint Surgery
If your movement is limited during recovery, ask a family member or friend to help prepare your living space. This helps make it safer and more comfortable while you heal. Use the tips below as a guide.
Home Safety Tips
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Stock up on toiletries, foods that are easy to prepare, and other items you’ll need during recovery.
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Store foods and other supplies between waist and shoulder level. This makes it easier to reach things without straining.
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Buy or borrow a portable telephone so you can keep it within easy reach.
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Ask your doctor whether you need to limit using stairs. If you do, and you normally sleep upstairs, prepare a bedroom on the main living level.
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Make sure rooms are well lit.
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Keep items you use often in easy reach.
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Move electrical cords out of the way so they don’t trip you.
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Remove throw rugs to prevent slipping or tripping.
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Watch for pets or small objects on the floor.
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Add firm pillows to a low chair to help make getting up easier.
Date Last Reviewed:
1/15/2007
Date Last Modified:
4/4/2005