It’s important to use the right equipment after surgery. This will protect your knee and lower your risk of falling when you’re home.

Have your equipment ready 1 to 2 weeks before surgery so you can practise using it. You may need some of the following items:

• a walking aid, such as a walker, cane, or crutches
• a reacher
• a chair with armrests
• a sock aid, leg lifter, elastic shoe laces, and a long-handled shoehorn
• a non-slip bath mat
• a raised toilet seat
• toilet arm rests
• a long-handled sponge or brush
• a shower seat for a walk-in shower
• a tub seat and a clamp-on tub bar for metal tubs
• transfer bench for fiberglass tub (your healthcare team will tell you which to get)

You can buy, rent, or borrow equipment from:

• a pharmacy or medical equipment store
• a medical equipment loan program (if there’s one in your area)
• friends or family (as long as the items are in good shape, safe, and the right type for your height and weight)
• a ​community health unit or home care program​​