Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 12/26/2008

Question
I am scheduled for THR in Feb.  My plan is to purchase a recliner for use when I get home since my other furniture will violate the restrictions (too soft, low back, etc).  Is there a range for the height of the recliner seat that I should assess as I shop around?  Any other advice in this regard?

Answer

Total Hip Replacement Hi Linda,


Good luck with the surgery first of all. THRs have come a long way over the years and you should fine.

In regards to the chair getting a recliner first of all is great. It will allow you to get your legs up and help decrease the swelling once you get home.

As far as height requirements are concerned, any recliner will do however you will have to be sure when you sit that your knees are not higher then your hips. You will want to be sure that you are not breaking the 90 degree hip precaution.

I have seen many patients with all types of recliners in their homes. You can always add a pillow to the seat of the chair to raise yourself up. This will of course depend on your height etc....

The one type of chair I do recommend you stay away from if possible is the type of recliner that rocks back and forth. I run across those from time to time and end up for patient safety putting rubber door stops underneath or wood wedges to prevent the chair from rocking when they stand or sit down.

Richard Haynes
Punta Gorda, Florida.

Once you get home and receive home PT they can access the chair as you sit and add or re-inforce it to keep you in the range of safety regarding those precautions. We do that all the time so its not a problem.

Furniture like soft sofas etc... where you sink into them are the ones you stay out of until the precautions are lifted and that is determined by the operating surgeon. generally its six weeks.

So get a recliner if you do not have one already do not get real concerned about firmness, height etc.... it can be built up with simple bed pillows etc...

If you have any further questions please let me know.