Tips for Putting on Pants after Hip Surgery

Hip surgery can be a challenging experience, and many people find that even simple daily activities can be difficult during the recovery period. One of the most challenging activities is putting on pants, as the hip area is one of the most sensitive areas of the body during this time. However, with a little bit of patience and some simple techniques, it is possible to put on pants after hip surgery without experiencing any pain or discomfort.

Here are some steps to follow:

1. Plan Ahead

Before you start putting on pants, make sure you have everything you need within easy reach. This might include a sturdy chair, a long-handled shoehorn, a dressing stick, or any other equipment that might be helpful in assisting you with putting on your pants. You may also want to choose pants that have an elastic waistband or that are loose-fitting, as these will be more comfortable and easier to put on.

2. Sit Down

Start by sitting down in a sturdy chair. Place your feet on the ground and your knees together. If you have a dressing stick or a shoehorn, place it next to you on the chair.

3. Put Your Good Leg in First

Begin by putting your good leg into the pants first. This leg will serve as a stable base for the rest of your body as you maneuver your surgical leg into the pants. Be sure to use the dressing stick or shoehorn if you need to reach down to your foot.

4. Maneuver Your Surgical Leg into the Pants

Next, gently lift your surgical leg and maneuver it into the pants. This may require some twisting and turning, so take your time and be patient. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop and take a break before continuing.

5. Pull Up the Pants

Once your surgical leg is in the pants, slowly pull up the pants until they are sitting comfortably around your waist. Adjust the waistband as needed to ensure that the pants are sitting evenly on both sides.

6. Stand Up

Finally, stand up slowly and carefully. Take a few steps to make sure that the pants are sitting comfortably and that you are not experiencing any pain or discomfort. If necessary, adjust the pants or use the dressing stick or shoehorn to make any final adjustments.

Putting on pants after hip surgery can be a challenging task, but with a little bit of patience and some simple techniques, it is possible to do it without any pain or discomfort. Remember to plan ahead, sit down, put your good leg in first, maneuver your surgical leg into the pants, pull up the pants, and stand up slowly and carefully. If you experience any pain or discomfort at any point, stop and take a break before continuing.