Getting up TT steps with walker

How about a ramp?

Will your insurance, or Medicare, pay for you to stay in a rehab facility for a week or two until you are able to get up/down stairs? I had hip replacement last January and went to a rehab place for about 15 days to get used to walking with cane, climbing/descending stairs, getting in/out of bed, etc. Hopefully you have access to a rehab place, Medicare did for me.

First of all practice the stairs with the PT before leaving the hospital. If you are allowed to put your full weight on your hip this is possible. I would recommend you use the rail on the left side and a cane on the right side for support. Go up with your un operated leg first and then raise your operated leg to the same step as your un operated leg. Repeat until inside. Once inside the trailer use your walker.

The first step into the trailer is always a big one. You may want to buy or acquire a step stool shorter than the height of the trailer's first step to make an easier transition. There are some step stools with handles which are beneficial also. Again go over the scenario with your PT before leaving the hospital. Take a picture of the step situation for the PT as many are not too familiar with TT set up. Doesn't hurt to start practicing now.

I am more concerned over the bathroom situation. TT commodes are low to the ground. Are you getting an anterior or posterior approach, as you may have hip precautions? You may need a raised toilet seat or a 3 in 1 commode to go over the toilet so you don't sit so low you may dislocate. The 3 in 1 commode may be too wide for typical TT bathrooms. Take measurements of the width of the space from the area surrounding the commode to see if the equipment will fit. Give to your OT and PT. Unless you have a generous bathroom your walker will not fit through the door. Turn the walker sideways and stay inside the walker and side step your way into the bathroom.

Trust your rehab staff's opinion for the safest discharge location as you may need rehab, but they will let you know.

I had hip surgery last June 30th and I have been in and out of our TT many times. You will be in the hospital about 5 days and by that time you should be able to get up and go to the bathroom on your own. I came home and was out in our TT within days. going to a rehab place around here is not a good idea. our rehab place is like a dump and the people plain worthless. they wanted me to go to one, I lasted 6 hours and walked out at 1:30 in the morning. glad I left, I am doing much better now and made up my mind I was going to beat this thing. I still have discomfort but it is livable.

Medicare will pay to have you moved and stay at a rehab hospital. Your doctor will have to write the order so ask for it before the surgery. You will get daily physical therapy which will speed your recovery.
Don

Look at this: http://www.rollaramp.com/

when my mom had knee replacement, she wasn't allowed to leave hospital until she could climb without stopping at least 5 steps.. how many she had into house.. PT took her into stairwell and had her climb up an entire flight.. five at a time..also carried a folding chair to sit on midway landing and rest a bit.

I would recommend asking doc to refer you to PT for initial consultation prior to your surgery.. so you can both be clear about your expectations..