Hip Safety: Using the Toilet

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Using the bathroom can be challenging after hip surgery. Follow your “hip precautions” and the tips on this sheet to keep your new hip safe when using the toilet.

Back up until you feel the toilet touch the back of your legs.

Place your operated leg in front of you, keeping your weight on the other leg.

Look behind you and grasp the grab bar (or side rails, if you’re using a toilet with rails).

Lower yourself onto the front of the toilet, then scoot back.

To get up, reverse these steps.

If you have a low toilet seat at home, your healthcare provider may prescribe an elevated toilet seat lift.

Man in hospital gown in bathroom holding onto toilet side rails to help steady him while he sits on toilet.

Remember your hip precautions

Don't bend your hip at the waist more than 90°. (Don’t move your knees and chest too far toward each other.)
Don't cross your legs or ankles or let your operated thigh cross the middle of your body.
Don't turn your operated hip or knee inward.