Reviewed by the OrthoProcedures editorial team. Updated April 2026.
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Recovery Timeline
An overview of your recovery journey. Use this to understand when each product matters most.
Week 1-2: Immediate Post-Op
Pain management and swelling reduction
Use ice machine 3-4 times daily for 20-30 minutes
Practice walking with walker (short distances)
Wear compression stockings as prescribed
Use elevated toilet seat to prevent hip flexion >90°
Sleep with knee pillow to maintain proper leg alignment
Seals out water, dirt, and germs to help prevent infection
Stays on skin during showering and bathing
"Tegaderm is the standard transparent dressing used in hospitals — apply over steri-strips or small drain sites to allow showering without wetting the incision"
Trusted by hospitals for 40+ years for pre-operative skin cleansing
4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) kills germs on contact
Antimicrobial protection persists even after rinsing
"Most surgeons prescribe Hibiclens for pre-operative skin prep — use for 3-5 days before surgery and to clean around the incision site post-operatively as directed"
Anti-Embolism Thigh High TED Hose Compression Stockings 15-20 mmHg
4.3/5 stars (3,575 reviews)
$13.95
15-20 mmHg graduated compression for post-surgical DVT prevention
Thigh-high design with inspection toe hole for circulation monitoring
Unisex sizing — comfortable nylon/spandex blend
"Anti-embolism stockings are clinically mandated after knee and hip replacement to prevent deep vein thrombosis — wear as prescribed, typically for 2-6 weeks post-op"
82% nylon / 18% spandex for comfort during extended wear
Designed for bedridden and post-surgical patients
"Truform is a trusted hospital-grade brand — these stockings maintain the same graduated compression used in clinical settings to prevent post-surgical blood clots"
16 x 9 inch size covers the hip area for larger surgical sites
Flexible when frozen, contours around hip and lower back
Targets post-surgery swelling, sciatica, and lower back pain
"A large-format ice pack sized for the hip incision area. Budget alternative to continuous cold therapy machines for patients who only need intermittent icing."
"Circulating cold therapy machines deliver more consistent, deeper cooling than gel packs -- the extended hip pad wraps the full hip joint for better contact than standard joint pads"
Portable sequential compression device (SCD) with kneading air massage for post-surgical DVT prevention
Two compression modes targeting calf muscles to improve circulation and reduce swelling
Rechargeable and cordless for use at home or during travel recovery
"Affordable portable SCD alternative for patients who need sequential compression therapy after knee or hip replacement but cannot justify clinical-grade pricing."
Safe-er-Grip Suction Cup Grab Bar for Bathtubs & Showers - 16 Inches
4.2/5 stars (42,284 reviews)
$12.10
16-inch length provides secure handhold for transfers
Powerful suction cups — no drilling or permanent installation
Color indicator confirms secure attachment before use
"A portable grab bar adds an extra safety handhold in the shower and tub — use alongside your shower chair to prevent falls during the high-risk first weeks"
Medical King Transfer Bench - Bathtub Shower Chair, 400 lb Capacity
4.7/5 stars (371 reviews)
$51.99
Sit and slide over the tub wall — no stepping over required
Adjustable height legs accommodate different tub heights
400 lb weight capacity with wide, stable seat
"A transfer bench is the safest way to get in and out of a bathtub after hip or knee replacement — it eliminates the dangerous step-over motion that risks falls"
Drive Medical Folding Steel Bedside Commode - 3-in-1, 350 lb
4.6/5 stars (35,706 reviews)
$30.59
3-in-1: bedside commode, raised toilet seat, or safety frame
Adjustable height from 17 to 23 inches
Foldable steel frame for compact storage and transport
"In the first 1-2 weeks, a bedside commode eliminates nighttime trips to the bathroom — it also serves as a raised toilet seat during the day to maintain hip precautions"
HurryCane Freedom Edition Foldable Walking Cane with T Handle
4.6/5 stars (25,461 reviews)
$37.12
Patented SteadiGrip pivoting base for superior stability
Folds to 13.7 inches for easy storage and travel
Adjustable height from 30.5 to 37.5 inches
"Most patients transition from walker to cane at weeks 3-6 — the HurryCane pivoting base provides extra stability during this critical transition period"
Drive Medical Two-Button Folding Walker with 5-Inch Wheels
4.7/5 stars (41,271 reviews)
$27.69
Dual push-button folding mechanism — operates with one hand
5-inch front wheels for smooth rolling on all surfaces
Lightweight aluminum frame supports up to 350 lbs
"A wheeled walker is essential for safe ambulation in the first 2-4 weeks after hip replacement — the front wheels allow continuous forward motion without lifting"
Loops over car door frame for a sturdy standing assist
Non-slip rubber grip handles wet or dry
Adjustable strap fits any vehicle door
"Getting in and out of a car is one of the hardest movements after joint replacement — the CarCaddie provides a secure handhold that makes vehicle transfers safer"
Comfytemp Heated Hip Wrap with Hip Brace - Electric Heat Pad
4.3/5 stars (1,595 reviews)
$39.99
Wrap-around design targets hip joint, lower back, and thigh
3 heat levels with 2-hour auto shut-off
FSA/HSA eligible — designed for hip bursitis and post-surgical stiffness
"Heat therapy is beneficial starting at week 3 post-op to reduce hip stiffness before physical therapy — never use heat on a fresh surgical wound in the first 2 weeks"
TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller - 13 Inch Multi-Density
4.7/5 stars (8,247 reviews)
$36.99
Patented multi-density foam surface mimics a sports massage
Recommended by physical therapists, chiropractors, and sports doctors
Supports up to 500 lbs — durable for daily use
"Foam rolling helps release tight IT bands and quadriceps that develop during recovery — use only on muscles, never directly over the surgical site or hardware"
NYOrtho Abduction Wedge Knee Separator - Hip Surgery Recovery
4.3/5 stars (344 reviews)
$28.99
Maintains 4-inch knee separation to prevent hip dislocation
Contoured foam comfortably cradles between the knees
Wipeable, fluid-resistant cover for hospital and home use
"An abduction pillow is clinically essential after hip replacement — it prevents the legs from crossing or rotating inward, which can dislocate the new joint"
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel 5.3oz - Topical Diclofenac Sodium 1%
4.6/5 stars (15,188 reviews)
$25.98
Clinically proven NSAID gel — same active ingredient prescribed by doctors
Targets arthritis and joint pain at the source with topical diclofenac
No prescription needed — available over the counter
"Apply only to intact skin away from the surgical incision — do not use on open wounds. Voltaren is effective for joint stiffness and arthritis pain that may persist after replacement surgery"
Hands-free roll-on application — no bending or reaching required
Fast-acting cooling menthol soothes sore muscles and joints
"Biofreeze is widely recommended by physical therapists — the roll-on format is ideal for patients who cannot reach the surgical area easily. Apply around, not on, the incision"
Boiron Arnicare Gel for Joint Pain and Bruises - 2.6 oz
4.6/5 stars (56,735 reviews)
$8.49
Natural homeopathic formula for pain relief and bruising
Non-greasy and fragrance-free — gentle on sensitive post-op skin
Reduces inflammation, soreness, and muscle stiffness
"Arnica is a popular natural option for bruise reduction after surgery — many patients find it helps with the discoloration and tenderness around the surgical site"
20g collagen peptides per serving with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
Supports skin, hair, nail, bone, and joint health
Unflavored — dissolves in coffee, smoothies, or water
"Collagen supplementation may support tissue repair and joint health during recovery — consult your surgeon before starting any supplements, especially if on blood thinners"
Nature Made Calcium 600mg with Vitamin D3 - 220 Tablets
4.7/5 stars (26,654 reviews)
$11.24
600mg calcium + vitamin D3 for optimal absorption
Supports strong bones — critical during joint replacement recovery
#1 pharmacist-recommended vitamin and supplement brand
"Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone healing after joint replacement — most orthopedic surgeons recommend supplementation during the recovery period"
NOW Foods Bromelain 2400 GDU - 500mg, 120 Veg Capsules
4.6/5 stars (6,127 reviews)
$25.12
Natural proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stem
2400 GDU per gram — high-potency formula
Supports healthy digestion and joint comfort
"Bromelain may help reduce post-surgical swelling and inflammation — discontinue 2 weeks before surgery if taking pre-op, resume post-op as directed by your surgeon"
Stander BedCaddie - Pull-Up Assist Bed Ladder with Non-Slip Handles
4.2/5 stars (1,506 reviews)
$12.99
Adjustable length from 48 to 84 inches
Non-slip cushioned handles for secure grip
Supports up to 300 lbs — reinforced nylon strap
"Getting out of bed is one of the most difficult movements after joint replacement — a bed ladder lets you pull yourself to a seated position without straining the surgical site"
NOVA Walker Bag - Universal Storage Organizer for Rollators and Walkers
4.6/5 stars (737 reviews)
$28.78
Universal fit — attaches to walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, and scooters
Water-resistant lightweight fabric
Multiple zippered pockets for phone, medications, and personal items
"When using a walker or rollator, you cannot carry items in your hands — a walker bag keeps your phone, medications, and essentials within reach without compromising balance"
Essential equipment includes: wound care supplies (waterproof dressings, antiseptic cleanser), anti-embolism stockings for DVT prevention, a raised toilet seat, shower chair, reacher/grabber tool, walker or crutches, cold therapy system, abduction pillow, and adaptive clothing like tear-away shorts. Supplements such as calcium with vitamin D and collagen peptides support bone healing.
Most patients need mobility aids (walker, cane) for 4-8 weeks. Bathroom safety equipment should be used for at least 6-12 weeks. Cold therapy is most beneficial in the first 2-4 weeks. Always follow your surgeon's specific recommendations.
A raised toilet seat is considered the most critical item, as it helps maintain the 90-degree hip precaution and prevents dislocation. Combined with a walker or crutches for mobility, these are essential for safe early recovery.
Many items qualify as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and may be partially covered by Medicare or private insurance. Check with your insurance provider before surgery. Items like walkers, shower chairs, and raised toilet seats are commonly covered with a prescription.
Purchase and set up all equipment 1-2 weeks before surgery. This ensures everything is ready when you return home and allows time to practice using items like reachers and sock aids before surgery when you're more mobile.
A cold therapy and compression system (such as Polar Active Ice) is the most effective option in the first 4-6 weeks because it combines DVT prevention with swelling control. Most surgeons also prescribe anti-embolism stockings (TED hose) for at least 2 weeks. For sequential compression, a calf-length pneumatic SCD pump is preferred over thigh-high to avoid pressure on the surgical site. Choose a device you can wear comfortably for the recommended hours per day during the highest-risk early recovery period.
A complete hip replacement recovery kit includes a raised toilet seat or toilet safety frame, a long-handled reacher, a sock aid, a long-handled shoe horn, a leg lifter strap, a shower chair or transfer bench, a hand-held shower head, anti-embolism stockings, wound care dressings, and a walker. Recovery kits designed for women may also include a front-closure bra and a longer-handled bath sponge. Set everything up at home 1-2 weeks before surgery so it's ready when you come home.
Most surgeons recommend wearing anti-embolism (TED) stockings for at least 2 weeks after surgery, with pneumatic sequential compression devices used during the hospital stay. Continue compression for the duration prescribed by your surgeon (typically 14 to 28 days) to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis during the highest-risk window. Some patients with elevated DVT risk wear compression for up to 35 days.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your orthopedic surgeon or healthcare provider before purchasing recovery equipment. Individual needs may vary based on your specific condition and surgeon's protocols.
