Regaining Your Energy After Surgery
Surgery can take a major toll on your body, and not just for the obvious reasons.
Even a minor surgical procedure requires your body to heal, expending energy and invoking immune responses that can tax your musculoskeletal and cardiopulmonary systems.
The more intensive the procedure, the more difficult your recovery may be. Spending time in the hospital can be draining itself. Many people find it difficult to sleep well in a clinical environment, and certain medications and anesthesias can affect sleep quality.
Plus, having to remain in bed or physically inactive for extended periods of time causes changes in your body, and you may find yourself easily exhausted, even months after being released from the hospital.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
- Tips for a successful recovery
- How long recovery takes after surgery
- The benefits of exercise in recovery
Tips for a Successful Recovery
Prioritize Sleep and Rest
What can you do to recover more successfully and rapidly?
Above all, make sure to prioritize sleep. Surgery is an ordeal, so take it easy. Rest when you are tired, eat well, and get as much gentle exercise (such as walking or swimming as directed by us or your physician) as possible.
Physical activity helps combat fatigue.
Regaining Energy After Surgery
Feeling drained after surgery is completely normal, but there are ways to boost your energy levels.
Here are some tips:
- Eat Nutritious Meals: Your body needs proper nutrition to heal. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover.
- Gentle Exercise: As mentioned, activities like walking or swimming, if approved by your doctor, can improve circulation and increase energy levels.
- Pace Yourself: Don’t rush your recovery. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
- Take Breaks: Don’t push yourself too hard. Taking short, frequent breaks can help prevent overexertion.
- Mind Your Mental Health: Stress and anxiety can sap your energy. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to help stay calm and positive.
Regaining Strength After Surgery
Rebuilding your strength takes time and effort. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start Slow: Begin with gentle exercises and gradually increase intensity as your body heals.
- Follow Your Plan: Stick to the exercise plan designed by your physical therapist and physician.
- Stay Consistent: Regular exercise, even in small amounts, helps build strength over time.
- Be Patient: Recovery is a process. Celebrate small milestones along the way.
- Use Support Aids: Don’t hesitate to use crutches, braces, or other support aids if needed. They can help you move more safely and comfortably.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Regular check-ins with your physical therapist will ensure you’re on the right track and making progress.
Tailored Rehabilitation Programs
Each type of surgery requires a different rehabilitation effort, and what works for one person may not work for the next.
A rehabilitation program designed for your specific needs will:
- Focus on the parts of your body most affected by your surgery
- Help you regain full energy and function
- Manage your pain
Managing pain is an essential part of successful postsurgical rehabilitation.
If you are in pain and exhausted, you cannot perform the physical work necessary to attain a full recovery.
The Jackson Clinics has 18 locations conveniently located throughout Northern Virginia — check out our list to get started!
How Long Does Recovery Take After Surgery?
Recovery time varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, your overall health, and how well you follow your rehabilitation plan.
Minor surgeries might only require a few weeks of recovery, while more intensive procedures can take several months.
Consistent follow-up with your healthcare provider and adhering to your recovery plan are crucial for a timely and effective recovery.
Factors Influencing Recovery Time
- Type of Surgery: More invasive procedures typically require longer recovery times.
- Overall Health: Your pre-surgery health can impact recovery speed.
- Age: Older individuals may experience longer recovery periods.
- Adherence to Rehab: Following your rehabilitation plan diligently can significantly affect recovery time.
- Support System: Having friends and family to assist and encourage you can make a big difference.
Customized Exercise Plans
Getting active after surgery can help you bounce back sooner.
Exercise boosts blood flow, which speeds up healing, and keeps your muscles and joints from getting stiff. Plus, it lifts your mood and energy levels, making it easier to return to your daily routine.
Examples of Gentle Exercises You Can Try:
- Walking: Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance.
- Swimming: If approved, swimming is excellent for low-impact strengthening.
- Stretching: Gentle stretches can help maintain flexibility.
- Light Yoga: Consider yoga for gentle stretching and relaxation, ensuring the poses are safe for your condition.
However, while at-home exercises are beneficial, working with a physical therapist to create a customized exercise plan can offer significant advantages.
Benefits of a Customized Exercise Plan with a Physical Therapist
At The Jackson Clinics, our physical therapists can determine specific exercises to help you feel better and recover sooner.
Our physical therapists will:
- Monitor your progress
- Adjust your regimen as needed
- Provide professional guidance to prevent injury
- Work together with your physician to formulate a stretching, strengthening, and exercise plan to speed your recovery and minimize future discomfort
This, along with staying patient and optimistic, will enable to you to resume your regular activities sooner than you think.
Book an appointment with us today to get started!
Did you know you have Direct Access* to Physical Therapy? No referral, no problem!
Remember, recovery is a journey.
By taking proactive steps, following your rehab plan, and relying on your support network, you’ll make your recovery smoother and get back to your normal activities sooner.