What most patients don’t know about their surgery is that the procedure is only half the battle. For the best possible results, there are steps our patients can take at home.
Do Get Plenty of Rest
Taking time to yourself before jumping back into work and your typical daily routine is of the utmost importance. You need to make sure your body has plenty of time to heal to the best of its abilities before you start forcing yourself back into a stressful routine that may do more harm than good. Remember, you want to heal right for the best possible outcome.
Do Keep Hydrated
Hydration is more important now than ever before. Drinking plenty of water is key to a healthy normal routine and getting into the habit during your recovery will pay off in more ways than just helping you to heal well.
Do Eat Well
Similar to hydration, eating a healthy and well-balanced meal is a good habit to get into especially during your recovery. Once you have started, it is easier to fall into a pattern of making healthier meal choices. Doing so during your recovery is important because your body is going to need all the proper fuel it can get to heal well.
Don’t Start Smoking
If you feel like you need something to calm you down during your recovery, picking up a cigarette is not an option you should make for yourself. Practice breathing exercises, remember to take your post-op medications and try picking up other calming activities such as reading, or meditation. Not only will they help keep you calm, but they’ll also keep you busy during recovery.
Remember, cigarettes will only take a toll on your health during a time you’re supposed to focus on healing your body.
Don’t Rely on Over-the-Counter Medication
Recovery is not a time to be stocking up on Advil or any other over-the-counter pain medications. Dr. Baldenhofer will prescribe you post-operative medications that will help you to heal, and it is important that you stick to them. They are the best possible option for the healing process and to keep you as comfortable as possible. You also won’t end up accidentally taking a blood-thinner if you stick to your medications, which would be counter-productive to the recovery process.
If you have any more questions about how to plan for your post-operative recovery, feel free to contact either our Long Island or New York City office to schedule a free consultation.
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