I am now 6 weeks in following a total left hip replacement. From various information I've read, I understand that you should allow 2-3 months before you can expect to take a bath. However, at my recent post-surgery check-up, the consultant advised me that I should avoid baths completely in the future. This was very disappointing to hear as I suffer from both rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, and having a soak in a hot bath gives me the world of comfort. Does anyone have any thoughts/comments on this? If so, I would really appreciate hearing from you. Thank you.
Doesn't sound normal to me - most are told "no restrictions" after 12 weeks.
I really struggle to understand why you should have this particular restriction.
I'd ask again to make sure, and ask why he is subjecting you to this restriction.
Best wishes
Graham
Sounds really strange, they can give you appliances for bathing to make it easier getting in and out of the bath. They ask you these questions at joint school so everything is set up when you go home. Did you go to joint school.
Hi I'm 8 weeks post RTHR and I was told I could take a bath 6 weeks post op but had to practice getting in/out of bath first fully clothed just in case couldn't get back out and also with someone there just in case. I have now had a few lovely baths and have been fine being able to get in/out on my own but do make sure you have non slip mats both in and out so to avoid slipping. Good luck you'll love your first bath (I had a cheeky glass of wine 🍷 with mine 😉
I am 6 weeks post replacement , leg lengthening plus metal work from previous surgery removal , and at my first check up yesterday i was told that after 12 weeks all normal activities , including bathing can resume . My main problem , apart from tbe usual aches and stiffness is sleeping on my back ! Ive tried everything to get comfortable .... no joy and sleeping on my operated side is a no no .. horrendous pain , therefore , I'm sleeping 3 _ 4 hours a night . I'm so looking forward to a long soak in 6 weeks , never thought that the idea of a bath could be so exiting !
Hi miss
I'm 10 weeks post op right hip and at my 6 weeks check my surgeon told me I can bath when I feel up to it. I have not tried it yet because I'm having issues with my knee but I'm allowed to go swimming and they actually recommend it so as long as its not burning hot it should be fine.
A big worry of mine was sleeping on my back. My husband has moved into the spare room so I have space, I am packing myself around with pillows and one in between my legs which I have tied the end to make more of a triangle. After the first few days I am not doing too bad I wake a couple of times during the night wanting to turn, that can be hard to resist sometimes, but most nights I am getting back off okay. Do you have loads of pillows.
I get extreme back ache but can't move to my non operated side as it hurts to much so I completely understand how you feel. I'm using pain killers and deep heat muscle rub with a hot water bottom during the day to help ease it. Good luck 👍
I've never heard of full restriction on taking a bath. Two issues that can delay taking a bath could be wound not completely healed and ability to get in/out of tub.
Suggest checking with doctor about it.
I am counting the days to my bath! Nothing better!
I saw my surgeon (7 weeks) and forgot to ask about a bath however he said sleep only on good side. My first attempt last night sent me through the roof after sitting up in bed so long but after 2/3 goes it seemed better. Still work in progress
I was swimming in my pool at 2 weeks post-op. Once the incision no longer stung when showering my doc said it was fine. My bandage came off at 10 days and the incision was 99.9% totally healed. 2-3 months doesn't make sense. If it's about getting in and out of the tub, grab handles etc... solve that issue. Maybe use incremental steps in and out of the tub to raise your bottom up gradually. Good luck...
My surgeon told me no baths or hot tubs for 12 weeks.
I had a bath after 12 weeks. I think the main worry of bath is getting in and out and he is maybe worried you will fall. That is when a lot of people do fall, getting in and out of bath.
Don’t know if your in the states or the UK but if you google Rubbermaid foot stool and are able to purchase this plastic stool, place it in the bottom bath, enter the tub and sit on top. Then start pouring the water once you are in. This is good if you have trouble getting into a tub. You still feel the benefit of a bath. And it’s something you can consider after 12 weeks when you are more healed and you have better flexibility getting down into a tub.
I love having a bath! I had the 90 degree rule so I waited until 12 weeks. Initially I found it quite tricky getting out, but if you had grab bars I imagine it would be easier. Maybe find out why the surgeon isn’t keen?
All the best, Judith
We are all anonymous here so I'll throw this out there.
If you are obese your doc may be concerned about you being able to get back up out of the tub.
I'm not over weight but I still don't feel confident enough think I'll wait a while until my knee is better 👍
Did he say why? I didn’t have baths for a month after surgery as advised but have never had a problem since. Sounds very odd.
Many thanks to all of you for taking the time to send in your very helpful responses. I got the impression that he was more concerned about the effort it would take, and the strain it would put on the new joint, by getting out of the bath. I shall be having a further appointment with surgeon in just under 3 weeks' time so I shall clarify this with him. I have to say though that I am encouraged by all of your responses and I am still determined to have that bath - eventually!!!