Before & After Surgery - What You Can Do for a Speedy Recovery
Medical experts say there are things we can do before and after that may help encourage our recovery from surgery. One of the first things says Dr. Charla Fischer, an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Spine Center in New York City, is to think of surgery not as a sprint but rather as a full marathon or race. She explains, "The surgery itself is just the first part of the race – there is also the recovery after. You want your body to be as prepared as possible, and exercise and good nutrition before and after surgery are part of this."
Before your surgery, your doctor may have you screened for a series of health problems including malnutrition, anemia, diabetes and pain, and then take steps to address them. As exercise is another important part of getting in shape, you should talk to your surgeon about what is safe for you to do. If you feel you need more guidance, ask if you are a candidate for a pre-habilitation program as it can show you the best type of exercise to safely strengthen your body in readiness for surgery. Also be sure to ask about what kind of exercise is safe to do after the surgery. Doctors say typically the quicker you are to move, the quicker you get your strength back.
If you find yourself suffering from preoperative anxiety, ask your surgeon to walk you through the experience so you know what to expect including “pre-surgery, during surgery, the hospital stay and recovery after surgery," Dr. Fisher explains. Your post-surgery diet should be rich in protein, and avoid sugary and processed foods. Also stay hydrated. Quitting smoking is another thing that offers big benefits in post-surgical outcomes as “smoking increases the risk of blood clots, reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to the tissues that need it and increases stress on the heart.” Finally, if something doesn’t seem right about your recovery, contact your surgeon.
For unsurpassed senior living, Hayward seniors are encouraged to consider Casa Sandoval, a true destination for successful aging. Along with independent and assisted living, we provide respite care in a furnished suite for up to 30 days. Respite or temporary care is a great option for seniors who are recovering from surgery or an illness and require some day-to-day support services. Contact us to learn more about our respite care and how they can help you or your loved one to make a speedy recovery.
Casa Sandoval provides the very best in independent and assisted living with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living Hayward, CA offers.
Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/tips-for-recovering-from-surgery