Chronic Pain WikiRecovering From Surgery
>This page includes tips on how to better recover from surgery. (Feel free to edit the page and add your own.)
- IMPORTANT! If you develop a fever, redness, drainage, or anything unusual during your recovery, call your doctor immediately! They could be signs of a serious infection and need to be treated ASAP.
- Drink LOTS of water and other fluids, you need the rehydration and it will help avoid constipation.
- Speaking of constipation, ask your doctor before hand what remedy he suggests. Unfortunately constipation is a common problem due to the meds and such. Increasing your fluid and fiber intake will help but sometimes you need more.
- Do the breathing exercises using the Incentive Spirometer, or the coughing and deep breathing exercises they give you. This is to help prevent pneumonia.
- Take your pain medicine as directed. This is especially important during recovery so your pain doesn't get out of hand. Being proactive is much better than chasing the pain. Plus adequate pain relief improves your healing time as your body can focus on that rather than pain.
- Get enough sleep as that also helps your body to heal.
- Avoid sitting longer than 30 minutes. Sitting is the worst position for your spine pressure wise.
- Walk, walk, walk! With your doctor's permission of course. Walking in one of the best exercises.
- No bending, lifting, or twisting. If you have little ones around have them climb into your lap or have someone put the child on your lap.
- No driving until your doctor allows it.
- Be patient, recovering from surgery takes time.
- Make sure to follow your doctor's orders regarding post-op care.