Surgery Recovery Made Quicker
By Brandi Goodman
Surgeries -- both big and small -- can take a serious toll on the body. It can take weeks to recover from even a minor procedure. With a few tips in mind, you can make your recovery process go more quickly and keep your well-being intact.
Eat Healthily
Did you know that the foods you eat can help your body recover from injury? Protein, for example, is necessary for building cells. You should be consuming plenty of protein, antioxidants, and vitamins to help your surgery wounds heal promptly. Chicken, eggs, fish, leafy greens, carrots, yogurts, and apples should be at the top of your menu.
Move as Often as Possible
It's easy to lay in bed for days when you're recovering and not feeling like yourself. This can be detrimental to your health, though. You should be moving as often as possible to prevent blood clots, keep your muscles strong, and your body working as intended. Just a short walk around the room or from one area of the house to another can help tremendously.
Have Help at the Ready
You should never head home from the hospital without help at the ready. You won't be able to handle everything you used to and will require assistance for a while. Having a friend or even hired hand there to help you with your daily needs can ensure you don't overdo it on your own. They may help cook meals, handle your housework, assist you with bathing, or even sit with you for some company.
Follow Your Doctor's Orders
Based on your specific surgery and needs, your doctor will give you a list of instructions to follow. Never deviate from your doctor's plan. If your doctor says you should avoid smoking for 24 hours because you had mouth surgery, then stop smoking. Failing to follow these orders can result in discomfort -- or worse -- and hinder your recovery process. Most will also advise you not to drive for a specified period of time and avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
Surgery is stressful on the body, but often necessary. Do what you can to help your body heal as quickly as possible so you can get back to better well-being. With the right foods and plan in place, you can come back from your procedure in no time -- strong and healthy.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Myrtle Beach, S.C.