Learn how to safely return to exercise following surgery, focusing on gradual recovery, setting realistic goals, and the many benefits of physical activity for your overall health.
Fresh start: What you need to know about exercising after surgery:
Exercise After Surgery
It’s a common misconception that people are more vulnerable to risks after surgery, but that’s not necessarily true. In fact, safe exercise routines can actually benefit individuals who have undergone surgery. Plus, many available resources can help you stay healthy if you’ve had surgery.
The Importance of Exercise After Surgery
Exercise can help those who’ve had surgery in many ways. For example, it can help with:
- Reducing high blood pressure.
- Improving heart health.
- Losing weight.
- Improving sleep quality.
- Feeling happy.
When Can You Start Exercising After Surgery?
Typically, you can’t move around much immediately after surgery. However, it’s still important to get some movement in. The length of recovery from surgery varies, but there are general guidelines to follow.
- A week after surgery: You might need to stay in the hospital, but most people can go home.
- In the first few weeks after surgery: Rest and avoid strenuous activity.
- After a month: Slowly return to your normal activity level.
- After two to three months: You can resume activities that you did before surgery, including exercise routines.
Tips for Exercising After Surgery
After surgery, it’s important to develop a new exercise plan with your doctor. This is especially important for people who used to exercise regularly before surgery, as activities like running or intense workouts can now be risky.
Here are some important tips to keep in mind when exercising after surgery:
- Do the exercises you enjoy.
- Be careful when swimming, and avoid getting an infection in the surgical area.
- Set realistic goals. Start with smaller exercises and build up to longer routines.
- Work with a physical therapist.
- Don’t overexert yourself. If you feel pain or discomfort during exercise, stop immediately.
- Make exercise a social activity.
- Make small changes to your routine.
Myth & Facts
Myth: I should completely avoid exercising after surgery.
Fact: While it’s important to rest initially, controlled and doctor-approved exercise can promote healing and recovery.
Myth: I can immediately return to my pre-surgery exercise routine.
Fact: Your body needs time to heal. Gradually reintroduce activities to avoid injury.
Myth: Exercise after surgery is only for physical recovery.
Fact: Exercise also helps with mental well-being, reducing stress and boosting mood.
