Skip to main content

Hip Safety: Using the Toilet


 

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Hip Safety: Using the Toilet

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.

 
 

Remember Your Hip Precautions:

  • Keep the angle at your hip greater than 90°. (Don't move your knees and chest too far toward each other.)

  • Do not cross your legs or ankles or let your operated thigh cross the middle of your body.

  • Do not turn your operated hip or knee inward.