Preparing Your Home for Joint Replacement Recovery: What to Do Before Surgery

In the early stages of recovery from hip or knee replacement, simple movements such as sitting, standing, climbing stairs or getting into bed can feel challenging.

Preparing your home in advance helps you:

• Reduce the risk of slips, trips or falls
• Follow post-operative precautions safely
• Move around with crutches or a walking frame
• Keep essential items close at hand
• Recover with more confidence and independence

The British Orthopaedic Association1 provides a practical guide to recovery and what to expect after a joint replacement,

Our Patient Support Team will also talk you through what to expect and help you make any personalised adjustments you may need.

After surgery, you may rely on crutches or a walking frame for balance. Ensure:

• Floors and hallways are decluttered
• Rugs are removed or secured with non-slip backing
• Loose cables are tucked away
• High-risk trip hazards (pet toys, shoes, bags) are removed
• Pets are kept calm or separate during early recovery

A safe path through your home is essential to reduce strain and risk.

Choose a room where you’ll spend the majority of your time post-surgery. Include:

• A supportive, high-backed chair with arms
• Pillows or cushions for proper joint positioning
• A side table for medication, drinks, and essentials
• Phone chargers and remotes within easy reach
• Good lighting for night-time movement

This becomes your central base for the first few days.

You may want to temporarily adjust your sleeping setup. Aim for:

• A bed height that doesn’t require deep bending
• Space on both sides for easier entry and exit
• A clear, well-lit path to the bathroom
• Ideally staying on one level to avoid stairs initially

Good sleep is crucial for healing, so comfort and accessibility matter.

The bathroom is one of the highest-risk areas after joint replacement surgery.

Simple aids can improve safety:

• Non-slip bath or shower mats
• Raised toilet seat or frame
• Grab rails (if recommended)
• A shower stool (if needed)
• Toiletries stored at standing height to avoid bending

Age UK² offers very clear, practical advice on adapting your home to make it safer and more comfortable after illness or surgery.

Standing for long periods may be difficult after surgery. To prepare:

• Cook and freeze meals in advance
• Move heavy pots to counter height
• Keep mugs, plates, and everyday items easy to reach
• Stock up on simple, healthy meals
• Use kettle tippers or smaller jugs if handling weight is challenging

Planning ahead helps maintain good nutrition during recovery.

Although many patients regain independence quickly, support is very helpful in the first week. Think about who can help with:

• Cooking
• Food shopping
• Laundry
• Dog walking
• Transport to follow-up appointments

Even short-term help makes a significant difference.

Prepare the items you’ll rely on most:

• Pain medication (as advised by your team)
• Ice packs or gel pads
• Long-handled aids (grabber, shoehorn, sock aid)
• Loose, comfortable clothing
• Slip-on shoes with good grip
• A water bottle that’s easy to handle

Having everything ready prevents unnecessary movement post-surgery.

Our Rapid Recovery Programme is designed to help patients get back on their feet faster, with enhanced pain management, early mobilisation and personalised physiotherapy built into every treatment pathway.

Learn more about Our Treatments

We are proud to partner with high-quality rehabilitation centres that support patients following hip and knee replacement surgery. These facilities provide expert physiotherapy, personalised care plans, and a safe environment to continue your recovery before transitioning home.

The Clavadel

Located in Guildford, The Clavadel provides exceptional post-operative rehabilitation in a calm, purpose-built environment. Their highly experienced team specialises in early mobilisation, tailored physiotherapy programmes, and comprehensive care that helps patients regain confidence and mobility.

Lynden Hill Clinic

Lynden Hill Clinic offers premium post-operative recovery and rehabilitation in a therapeutic countryside setting near Reading. Their multidisciplinary team focuses on personalised care, pain management, and structured rehabilitation, making it an excellent option for patients who would benefit from additional support before returning home.

Read up on Our Partners