Although “get some rest” is often the go-to advice following surgery, getting back to motion quickly is extremely important to the body’s recovery process. It is the body’s natural response to try to protect the area surrounding where a surgery or “trauma” has occurred. The body goes into protection mode by swelling, tightening, and limiting the range of motion near the injury. However, even the smallest of movements can make a big impact on a patient's healing and recovery. Movement keeps blood flowing, which in turn eases pain and inflammation, and ultimately helps the wound heal. Additionally, movement helps prevent blood clots and significantly lowers the chances of infection.
Benefits of Moving Post Surgery:
- Improved Breathing - movements (large or small) help to clear the lungs and increase a patient’s lung capacity. Simply changing position often can make a big difference.
- Keeps Muscles Strong - the stress hormone released during surgery is thought to induce a rapid deterioration in muscle mass and function. Physical activity of any kind curtails this decline.
- Regular Bowel Movements - moving the body after a surgery stimulates the digestive system, alleviating the gas pain and constipation that commonly occur following a surgery.
Of course, the timeline of getting back to motion following surgery is dependent on many factors. A patient should listen to their body and follow their doctor's post-surgery orders. However, it is important to note that staying immobile for too long can cause a host of post-surgery issues. Even though the smallest of movements may be harder than expected, they can make a big difference in a patient’s recovery time.
Carole Reda, DPT at Sports Medicine Orthopaedic Center will help get you or your loved one ‘Back to Motion’ following surgery. She has the experience and skill set needed to provide you with the best of the best in post-operative care. Let the team at SMOC help ease your recovery experience and get you back to a life without limits!
Carole Reda, DPT attended Winthrop University as a Division 1 athlete and found a passion for physical therapy. She graduated from ODU's Doctor of Physical Therapy Program in 2015, and has worked solely in outpatient orthopedics for the entirety of her career with a focus on post-operative care, sports medicine, and complex differential diagnoses.
