Hip operations are among the most common surgeries in the United States today. Patients will spend a fair amount of time sitting after their operation, so choosing a suitable chair for after hip surgery is essential.
Sitting Correctly After Hip Surgery
Whether the operation is a total or partial replacement or hip resurfacing, it is important to attentively care for the “new” joint. Moving the hip correctly is essential, especially just after surgery. Some movements may strain the new joint and must be avoided until the surgeon confirms complete healing. Even after recovery, patients must be mindful of their hip joint and move carefully to prevent injury.
Always keep the new joint in a comfortable position to prevent dislocation, which could happen if patients bend or rotate the joint incorrectly. The hip must not bend more than ninety degrees. Sitting for extended periods can also strain the hip, so a chair with adequate support is vital.
Do You Need a Special Chair?
Doctors will recommend the best chair to use after hip surgery. However, purchasing a special chair is unnecessary if patients already have a flat, hard chair with armrests. The seat should be just higher than the patient’s knees when standing beside the chair. If necessary, add a cushion. Soft sofas, chairs, and bucket car seats are unsuitable as they complicate getting up or sitting down.
If patients don’t have a suitable chair at home, here are five recommendations from Amazon regarding the best chair to use after hip surgery.
[amazon table=”4733″ link_id=”7394″]
Boss Captain’s Chair In Black Vinyl
[amazon box=”B00166BT8Y” template=”horizontal” link_id=”7395″ id=”5095″]
This classic, sturdy chair has a traditional Mahogany wood finish and a spring seat that won’t sag. It is ideal for use at a desk or in the lounge.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
| This chair was easy and quick to assemble The chair’s appearance was described as great Reasonably priced | The screw lines and holes didn’t match up |
Drive Medical 12455 Adjustable Height Stool With Back and Arms – White
[amazon box=”B002VWJZ1A” template=”horizontal” link_id=”7396″ id=”5101″]
This aluminum chair’s arms and legs move and can be used as a stool in the kitchen or for working on counters. The slanted seat helps reduce pressure on joints. The backrest is solid, and the side arms provide extra support. This quality chair is made from powder-coated steel and has non-slip rubber feet.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
| This chair is sturdy The width is adjustable The chair is lightweight and comfortable The product is good value for money | Don’t put all your weight on one arm; the chair will tip This chair is more for working in the kitchen, not for casual sitting One customer found it difficult to assemble |
Usego Shower Chair with Handles Shower Safety Seating
[amazon box=”B0BMPV4Y21″ template=”horizontal” link_id=”7397″ id=”5661″]
The advantage of this chair is that you can also use it in the shower. It has a heavy aluminum frame with a weight capacity of 270 lbs. The armrests are made of foam cotton. It has six different height settings and a water drainage hole. Its 4 non-slip rubber feet enhance friction, which prevents slipping. The curved back is soft, and the armrests comprise high-density foam.
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| The chair is sturdy | Not applicable |
| The hand bars work well | |
| It does not move in the shower |
Bless Reach Easily Assembled Portable Shower Chair Seat
[amazon box=”B097YJ4FBY” template=”horizontal” link_id=”7398″ id=”5463″]
This lightweight, portable shower chair grips tile floors, and its aluminum frame prevents rust. The removable padded arms are comfortable and enhance safety. It has a snap-together design, and no tools are required. The height is adjustable.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
| The pouch on the side is a favorable feature It was easy to assemble and is sturdy Comfortable Nicely made with good rubber feet | Some of the instructions were not clear The seat could be a little wider The arm broke off after two months |
HEINSY Widened Shower Chair with Armrests and Back
[amazon box=”B0BN3H3BYM” template=”horizontal” link_id=”7399″ id=”5662″]
This aluminum chair is sturdy and secure. It has high-strength cross bars that prevent the legs from moving outwards, and the seat is wider than average. It has a U-shaped seat for easy cleaning, and the holes effectively drain water. There are four height adjustment levels. The armrest and back are detachable. No tools are needed to assemble this chair.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
| The chair is easily folded and stored It feels very secure | This chair is pricey The hole on the one bar was too small for the screw and had to be drilled The chair should be narrower Water can get into the tubes |
Can You Sit in a Recliner After Hip Surgery?
It’s better to sit in a straight-back chair and avoid recliners for the first six weeks after your operation. Don’t try to sleep in a recliner, as you will have a stiff hip joint, making it difficult to straighten out. You should not extend your hips or legs backward for six weeks.
Getting Out of a Chair
Armrests are recommended for leaning on as you rise from the chair. Slide yourself towards the edge of the chair. Use the armrests to support you. You can also make use of your walker or crutches to help you. Never rock your body to get out of the chair. Use careful, deliberate, smooth movements. This will make you feel more steady and secure. Avoid rocking chairs and stools as well.
Further Tips
Remember not to cross your legs or ankles at any time. Doing so will put pressure on your new joint. Don’t even cross them if you are standing or lying down. Additionally, patients should not sit on the floor. Even if you have the best chair available after hip surgery, don’t sit in the same position for long periods. After 30 to 40 minutes, it’s best to move around. Sit with your feet about 15 centimeters apart. Don’t place them together/next to each other. Position your knees and feet straight ahead. Avoid bending forward after sitting down, and don’t reach for objects on the floor.
In summary, doctors recommend that the chair you use for after hip surgery be sturdy and have armrests for additional support. It is important to give the new hip joint the best chance of healing, and patients can do this by taking the precautions mentioned above.
