Must Haves

I thought it would be helpful to share the items that made my life easier during my recovery. I hope they will help you if you are going through hip labral tear surgery. 

Raised Toilet Seat with Handles

This may sound silly, but every inch counts when you're squatting post hip surgery. You can find the one I bought here. 

Crutch Pads & "Catch All" Pouch 

Oh my word- these pads for my crutches were a lifesaver! They made things much more comfortable under the arms and on the hands.When you're on crutches for an extended period of time, these are a must. The pouch is perfect for carrying around your phone, remote, medicine, and even can drinks & water bottles. 

Also, these Oofos recovery flip flops provide SO much cushion 

Special Elevated Pillow 

You will likely be advised to elevate the foot and be told to keep the foot from rolling out to the side, which it naturally does. This pillow made it a lot easier to keep my leg and foot in place. 

Grabber

You're going to drop things or need things that are out of reach, so I suggest a grabber like this one. 

Laxative

Just trust me- anesthesia + pain killers + being horizontal for long periods of time.... 
My pharmacist recommended magnesium citrate. 

Realities of life after surgery 

Ice, Ice Baby

The ice machine required constant refills of ice, and it was often more than the freezer ice maker could keep up with. My husband made lots of trips to the gas station to fill up a cooler with ice. 

Wipes 

Because it took a solid week (yes, I said it) before I had my first real shower, I relied on baby wipes for makeshift showers in the meantime, along with my husband washing my hair in the kitchen sink. Unfortunately, we don't have any walk in showers in my house, so for the first week, I just didn't have it in me to figure out getting and out of the shower and getting my leg over the ledge of the bathtub. Let me tell you, that first shower was glorious. 

Mederma 

I picked up a thing of this scar gel to massage into my incisions once the dressings & steri strips were removed.  a

Support 

As cliche as it may sound, surround yourself with people to support you and encourage you. This journey can be mentally challenging, especially if you are typically a very active and on-the-go type of person. Friends & family will be invaluable, and having people support you will be crucial to your healing and recovery process. Don't be afraid to ask for and accept help from others.