Surgeries can be scary. Many people put off much needed procedures because they’re afraid of the outcome, pain, or the time that might be required to get back into “normal” activities. While every surgery is different, there are some tips and tricks that can help ease these worries. We’ve compiled a handy list of things to consider before surgery to get you ready for the big day.
1. Talk to your Doctor. This seems like a no brainer, right? Many people become shell shocked once the word surgery comes into play. No one wants to have a procedure done, and sometimes even the possibility that it might be needed and everything it entails can leave your head spinning. Most doctors will set up specific appointments to talk to you about what you can expect with your healing, surgical procedure, and care afterward.
2. Follow ALL of your Doctor’s recommendations to the letter. Your doctor’s care instructions are not a guideline. They’re recommendations that are made to help ease you through the healing process, and when followed to the letter can reduce the risk of post-surgical problems as well as decrease recovery time.
3. Listen to your body. Many of us are not good at taking it easy. We all want to get back into routines as quickly as possible. Listening to your body and resting when an area becomes achy, tired, or painful will give you the best chance at a speedier recovery.
4. Ice. Your body’s natural response to trauma (surgery) is to increase inflammation in the area. Following most surgeries, ice is your best friend because it decreases inflammation in the area.
5. Keep your incisions dry and clean. Depending on the surgery, each procedure has specific care guidelines unique to the procedure being done. We often have friends who’ve had surgery, and what worked for them, may not be appropriate for you. After care instructions given by your doctor should always be followed to the letter to prevent infection or other complications.
6. Ask about therapy options. People often think of therapy and immediately think of traditional physical therapy or rehabilitation centers. However, many less traditional forms of physical therapy can aid the healing process. These therapies can ease the transition from surgery into activity, and make the process pain-free.
Laser therapy is a great example of an alternative form of physical therapy that significantly increases healing when used post-surgically (patients who make laser therapy a part of their surgical care heal 30-40% faster, and have less scarring along their incision sites.) Laser therapy also helps manage pain, and decreases inflammation.
As always we hope this information helps you make an informed decision about your care. If you missed our blog post on the phases of healing, or would like additional information on laser therapy check out our other posts here.