Surgical procedures can alleviate symptoms and even save lives, but they do put significant strain on the body. If you’ve been in the hospital after an accident, or you’ve had surgery after being diagnosed with an illness, it’s critical to take good care of yourself. Here are some tips to help you get back on track and navigate the road to recovery.
Surround yourself with people who care
Having a surgical procedure affects you both before and after the operation. It’s natural to be anxious and nervous beforehand, and most people will need time to recover afterward. It’s hugely beneficial to surround yourself with people who care in the run-up to the procedure and when you get home. Friends and family can help you with practical tasks like getting around the house or doing the shopping for you, but most importantly, they will also be there to support you emotionally, to provide company and comfort, and to lift your spirits. In some cases, the recovery process can be lengthy. Having loved ones there to help along the way can make even the toughest days more manageable.
Follow instructions
It can be tempting to try and bounce back as quickly as possible after a procedure, especially if you start to feel stronger and more optimistic about the future. While it’s positive to be ambitious and driven, it’s essential to recognize the importance of following instructions from your doctors, nurses, and other health professionals. If you try to move too quickly, you could undo some of your good work and put your body at risk. Your care team may recommend treatments such as Cellerate RX, targeted physical therapy exercises, and medication to help speed up the recovery process and accelerate healing. Take each day as it comes, and don’t panic if you have the odd day when you feel like your progress has slowed or stalled. There may be highs and lows along the way, but if you work with your doctors and therapists, you will get to where you want to be.
Set realistic targets
Setting targets is an excellent way to build motivation and give yourself something to look forward to and work towards, but goal setting is only beneficial if your objectives are realistic. If you’ve broken your leg, and you’re recovering after surgery, for example, you need to start with being able to walk and conquer the stairs before you think about doing a 5 km run or signing up for a half marathon. Set an end goal, but focus on milestones that you can reach along the way. If you aim too high, and you push yourself too hard, you could end up injuring yourself, delaying your recovery, and suffering from poor mental health. Use targets to make gradual progress and improve confidence, rather than to push yourself to the limits.
Undergoing a surgical procedure can take its toll on your physical and mental wellbeing. If you’re in recovery, now is the time to look after yourself, move at your own pace and lean on others for support and advice.