What kinds of things did you all do to prepare for your surgery? Specifically what did you do around the house?

I considered what I would need around the house, especially including the kitchen as a I live alone, and made sure everything I would need was at a level I could reach without bending over and violating the 90 degree rule. I had cat food stacked on my dining room table. I had my most frequently used pots and pans on my counter. I thought about meals, and which foods would last, etc., and shopped appropriately. I chose easy to eat individually wrapped snacks, such as applesauce and nuts. I made sure all walkways were free of obstructions. I made sure I had shoes that could easily be slipped on. All my laundry was complete, and my bed freshly made. I hired a petsitter to clean the litter tray, because I knew I wouldn't be able to manage that.

I also did other, more obvious stuff, such as buying a recliner, pulling out the hip/knee replacement kit, buying a new toilet riser and grab bars, pulling out the walker, etc.

What you need to do will depend on your own living situation. If you live alone in a three story house your preparations will need to be different (hint: sleep downstairs at first) than if you live in a rambler with a partner. Give thought as to how you will be comfortable, how you will get around, and food. You're not going to feel like cooking for a few days, and it will be basic for a bit. Think peanut butter sandwiches, not making a peanut sauce. My neighbor (ride) and I stopped at a Thai restaurant on the way home and he bought me food for that first night/morning. Give thought as to the height of your bed (and other furniture). Do you have a memory foam topper? You may want to jettison that for the first couple of weeks. They're really hard to get on and off of when you're leg has zero strength.

Just  remember that the first few days you will be a little fragile, and you'll need to watch heights/your position/etc..

Great list of items by catfriend.

I would add that you want to clear out areas to move around if using a walker, especially around the toilet.  I think having a comfortable spot so that you can elevate your leg and put a cushion underneath.  You'll be spending alot of time in this space so have a place to stack computer/reading material, water, pills, etc.  Also make sure it is easy to sit down and get up from that spot because it will be difficult to lift you leg for at least a week.

I would also say that I made sure to strengthen my non-operated leg since I will have to use it more.  I also did some stretching and rolling to keep the muscles loose.

Best wishes.

Daniel Gossack