Healing Faster And Better

Doctors perform millions of surgeries each year for emergency or elective purposes. Surgery helps relieve pain, restores flexibility, and prolongs a patient’s quality of life. However, surgery is much more effective if the patient successfully recovers. Several factors determine the speed and quality of the recovery process. The patient’s overall weight plays a major role, and maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) can help. There are also additional steps that can contribute to a speedy recovery.

mackinaw-surgery-center-Can-Weight-Affect-Surgical-Recovery-4-To-To-Heal-Faster-And-Be-Pain-Free

Does weight matter in recovery?

A patient’s weight is vital to the healing process after surgery. Studies show that excess weight increases the chances of complications. The medical team may struggle to access the surgical site, leading to longer operating times. This may increase the chances of infection and require larger incisions, which delay healing. Excess weight increases pain and discomfort, raises inflammation, and reduces mobility. Post-operative recovery, like physical therapy (PT), takes longer and is more difficult for obese patients. Every patient’s situation is unique, but a higher BMI will affect recovery in some form. Taking the following 4 steps may speed up recovery and reduce post-operative pain.

1. Follow a disciplined recovery protocol

After a surgical procedure, the medical team will devise a recovery plan for the patient. This plan will involve wound care, pain management, and physical therapy. These post-op necessities help improve strength and function and allow the patient to perform basic functions. The success of this plan depends on the patient’s discipline and diligence in healing. While 100% adherence may be impossible, following the doctor’s instructions as closely as possible helps with recovery. Take medication and care for wounds as advised. Show up for all PT sessions. The more involved the patient is in healing, the faster the process.

2. Make exercise a priority

Gentle exercise and physical activity can assist with healing. Even if the patient cannot lose weight immediately, the body can be primed for recovery. Light exercise almost always improves surgical recovery, especially in the case of joint replacement or ligament repair. Perform low-impact exercises daily to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and manage pain. Exercise is essential, but overtraining can be counterproductive to healing. Instead, perform activities within the doctor’s recommendations and individual capabilities.

3. Follow a well-balanced diet

Inflammation is necessary during the healing process. Yet, constant inflammation can delay healing and increase post-operative pain. The goal is to reduce inflammation after the initial wound-healing period through a balanced diet. Eat anti-inflammatory foods like green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and lean meats that provide antioxidant vitamins like A, C, D, and E. Conversely, avoid processed meats and dairy products, which are known to increase inflammation.

4. A holistic approach to healing

There are other valuable ways to speed up healing after surgery. Exercise activities like aqua aerobics, Pilates, and yoga can help keep the joints flexible and help patients manage weight. Meditation and talk therapy can also help patients cope with the pain and stress of surgery. Studies also show that acupuncture relieves pain and may speed up healing. A holistic approach to healing can help.

Don’t skip recovery days

Even for people with a healthy body weight, recovery after surgery can take several months. However, being overweight can lengthen the process by delaying healing and increasing the chances of complications. Maintaining a healthy body weight before and after surgery is essential to staying pain-free. Adopt healthy habits like a good diet and sufficient exercise while following the doctor’s protocols, and recovery will progress smoothly.