Having your hip replaced is sure to provide you with a better range of motion and a strong body overall when all is said and done, but you'll likely have a period of recovery time to face before all of the benefits of surgery are realized. Here are a couple of things you can do to make the recovery process more convenient:

Pack a Hospital Bag

It's helpful to pack a bag to take with you to the hospital upon admittance for your surgery so you have access to supplies and resources that will help make the transition of leaving the hospital and heading home more comfortable and convenient. Leave your jeans at home and pack a pair of sweat pants and a sweatshirt along with a robe to wear home from the hospital. You may not feel like you're dressed appropriately for a day in town, but you will be comfortable, and the loose clothing won't impede on your range of motion which will likely already be limited in your hips and legs.

Consider packing a small bathroom kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, your favorite body scent, and some lip balm that you can use right before being discharged from the hospital to refresh yourself and give you a feeling of normalcy. Additionally, you should include any literature that your doctor has previously given you about the recovery process so you can look it all over while waiting to be discharged. This will help ensure that nothing important is overlooked during your first days at home after surgery.

Plan Meals Beforehand

Because hip movement will be limited during your first few days of recovery at home, it's a good idea to plan and prepare your meals ahead of time, so they're ready to eat once you get home after surgery. Cook a couple of casseroles to put in the freezer, stock the cupboards with cereal and other ready-made foods, and fill the fridge with soups, pasta, and fresh produce, so eating doesn't have to be a chore while you gain your strength and range of motion back. Ask a friend or family member to spend a little time in your kitchen each morning portioning your day's meals and putting things in a crock pot or food warmer when necessary, so you don't have to spend more than a couple of minutes preparing your meals when you get hungry.

These tips and tricks should be easy to implement and should save some time as well as reduce your stress levels during recovery from hip replacement surgery.