If you're getting ready to undergo a major operation, you aren't alone. Canadian providers perform over a million surgeries each year.
Going into surgery is always scary, so we want to make it a little bit easier for you to plan for your recovery. That's why we’ve put together this guide to assist in with your post-surgery treatment in Surrey.
Are you searching for tips to help you heal better and faster after surgery? You've come to the right place. Keep reading for our top six post-surgery recovery tips.
1. GET PLENTY OF REST
Did you know that getting more sleep can help you heal faster? It's true—a 2018 study from the Journal of Applied Physiology found that even small disruptions in normal sleep patterns significantly delays healing.
After having surgery, make sure to get the recommended eight or more hours of sleep. Take breaks during the day, too, especially if you feel fatigued.
2. STAY ACTIVE
It's not always possible to stay active after surgery. As your health and physicans directions permit, try to maintain your pre-surgery exercise routine.
Why? Exercise increases blood flow in your body. That means more oxygen to aid with wound and general healing.
3. REDUCE TOBACCO SMOKING
Tobacco smoke isn't just bad for your lungs. It can also increase your risk of developing an infection during post-op recovery. Reduce your risk of complications and either go stop or, at the very least, try to reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke.
4. TEND YOUR WOUNDS
After a major surgery, many patients worry just as much about post-op scars as they do about feeling better. The secret to staying scar-free after having surgery? Keeping your wounds clean and changing their dressings often. Ask your physiotherapist about scar reduction massage techniques.
5. CLEAN UP YOUR DIET
In the 2018 Journal of Applied Physiology study we mentioned above, the researchers also looked into the diet's effect on healing. The study showed that nutritional supplements could also help to speed up recovery. Among other ingredients, these supplements contained:
Vitamin A
Copper
Zinc
The good news is you don't need a supplement to get these vitamins and nutrients. Dark, leafy greens like kale and spinach contain these compounds, too. Eat your greens!
6. REHABILITATION THERAPY
Depending on the type of procedure you undergo, your doctor may require you to undergo rehabilitation therapy. Physical therapy is one of the only ways to ensure the wounds inside your body heal as well as those on your skin.
Physiotherapy helps re-establish muscle strength and joint function, reduce post-op symptoms, and improve movement.
Keep in mind that post-operative rehabilitation isn't a quick fix. It may take months or even a full year to get you operating as usual again. Considering the robust healing effects physical therapy has on the body, the time is worth the result.
POST-SURGERY TREATMENT IN SURREY, BC
Getting plenty of rest, exercise, and leafy greens are excellent post-surgery care remedies you can do at home. Additional post-op best practices include quitting smoking and taking good care of your wounds. Of course, all of these tips work best alongside a professional physical therapy plan.
Are you searching for post-surgery treatment in Surrey? Get in touch with us now to schedule your first appointment!