Advances in surgical technology and techniques have come a long way, and having surgery is less invasive than ever. Recovery times have also improved, but there is no getting around the fact that a surgeon is cutting into your body with a knife or a laser in some form. That wound, however necessary and careful, needs care and time to heal. Want to spend less time in recovery? We at Mid Atlantic Orthopedic, created these five key factors that are critical to a full recovery after surgery.
Mobility
Moving around frequently may seem like a bad idea, but it helps to speed up your recovery. Get up and move around about three times a day, or as often as your doctor recommends. If you are not mobile after surgery, try to shift position in bed about every hour. Above all, if you need help getting into or out of bed, ask for help. It is not worth the risk of injury to try and move around unassisted if you need help.
Scar Management
Surgical scars seem to get smaller every year thanks to better techniques and surgical technology, but the incision and scar that remains still need special care. Provided your care team agrees, dress the wound post-surgery using a method that allows it to remain clean and moist. Avoid using oils or creams, as these can cause the wound to heal with more scarring. You can also use silicone sheets and medical tape to protect the wound site from UV rays, the leading cause of discoloration in permanent scarring.
Diet
A diet rich in protein like chicken and eggs, vitamin C, B12, iron, fiber and probiotics are known to aid in wound recovery and surgical recovery. Avoid sugary food and sweets, as these can cause additional fatigue when your blood sugar level rises or drops suddenly.
Support
Talk to friends and family members about helping you during your surgical recovery. They can run to the pharmacy for your medications, help you with mobility or talk to the health team when you are too tired or disoriented. Further, you will not have to be alone while you heal, which can make a significant difference in your recovery time. It is better for your emotional/psychological health, too.
Medical Advice
The protocols, techniques and procedures listed on your post-op instructions were not developed as a convenient accident. The steps and advice your medical team gives you are critical to making a full recovery. Follow these steps to the letter so you can be healthy and back to normal as soon as possible.
Understanding these five key factors will help you make a full recovery quickly. Take proper care of yourself, do not be afraid to seek outside support and follow your doctor’s orders. The shorter recovery time is well worth the effort.
Speak with a Professional
At Mid Atlantic Orthopedic, we work hard to ensure you have a successful surgery and put in the extra effort to make sure you have just as a succeful recovery. Without the proper care to a surgery wound, it may never full recover. If you want more information of what you can do to ensure a full recovery from surgery contact us today!
