How to Get Through a Hip Replacement — and Stay Independent During Recovery
Undergoing a hip replacement is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the world — and one of the most effective for reducing pain and improving mobility.
But while the outcome is often life-changing, the recovery process can be physically and emotionally challenging, especially in the first few weeks after surgery. Simple tasks like standing, walking, or getting dressed suddenly require careful planning and a lot of patience.
At OnMyOwn Solutions, we’re here to help people recover safely, maintain their dignity, and regain independence — one thoughtful tool at a time.
Here’s what you need to know to get through a hip replacement and thrive during recovery.
Make it stand out
1. Know What to Expect in the First Few Weeks
After surgery, mobility is limited — and that’s by design. Your body needs time to heal and adjust to the new joint. Most patients are instructed to:
Avoid bending more than 90 degrees
Use a walker or cane
Sit in elevated chairs
Avoid crossing their legs
Sleep with a pillow between their legs
These restrictions make even simple movements — like putting on socks or pants — difficult and sometimes risky. That’s where assistive devices come in.
2. Use the Right Tools to Stay Safe and Independent
The right tools can make a huge difference in recovery, especially for lower-body tasks.
One tool we recommend is MyLEDA — a lightweight, lower extremity dressing aid designed to help you pull up pants without bending over or standing up.
Using MyLEDA allows you to:
Get dressed safely while seated
Reduce the risk of falls or injury
Avoid hip surgery healing precautions
Feel more independent from day one
It’s especially helpful in the first 6-8 weeks when movement is most limited — and it can continue to be useful long after recovery for people with ongoing mobility issues.
3. Be Patient with Your Body (and Your Mind)
Healing from a hip replacement isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, too.
You may feel:
Frustrated by your temporary limitations
Anxious about falling
Embarrassed to ask for help
Discouraged if progress feels slow
These feelings are completely normal.
In our book, Solutions for Living Life Well With a Disability, we talk about how recovery requires not just tools, but mindset shifts. One of our core beliefs is:
“Adapting your environment is not a step backward — it’s a step forward toward living life on your own terms.”
4. Set Up Your Home for Recovery
Make your living space as safe and supportive as possible:
Install grab bars in the bathroom
Use a shower chair and handheld showerhead
Keep essentials within reach
Add a sturdy, supportive chair to your dressing area
Lay out clothes ahead of time, and use tools like MyLEDA for safe seated dressing
These small modifications can help you feel more in control and reduce the need for help from others.
5. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Every step counts — literally. Walking, stretching, dressing yourself, taking a shower — these are all victories. And each one brings you closer to your goal of living well again.
Even after recovery, many people find that tools like MyLEDA continue to support their independence, especially during long-term arthritis management or aging in place.
You’ve Got This — and We’ve Got Your Back
Hip replacement is a big milestone. But with the right attitude, support system, and adaptive tools, it can be the beginning of a more confident, independent life.
So give yourself time. Use the tools that make life easier. And don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
You’re not just recovering. You’re rebuilding.
📘 Explore the book:
Solutions for Living Life Well With a Disability — your guide to adapting daily routines with dignity and grace
🛠️ Try the tool:
MyLEDA Dressing Aid — dress safely and independently after surgery
💬 Know someone recovering from hip surgery?
Share this post with them — it might be the support they didn’t know they needed.