Tip for facing your recovery

Tip for facing your recovery

After a foot or ankle surgery, you might feel a little lost, especially if the procedure throws off your normal routine. Here are a few things you can do to occupy your time as you heal. If you have questions or feel like something is not right about your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions.

Relax

If you are a busybody, this won’t come naturally, however, it is essential that you take a break from your regular activities to simply rest and do nothing. This relieves stress on your newly repaired foot or ankle and allows other parts of your body to respond accordingly. If you find yourself getting bored, try catching up on your favorite tv shows, dive into a podcast, or reach out to a family member or friend that you haven’t talked to in awhile. If your hands are eager to work on a project, consider something that can be done from the comfort of your bed or couch, like knitting, coloring, or working on a puzzle. Remember that this is just a temporary situation and you will be back on your feet in no time, so do your best to take advantage of this opportunity to have a break from life’s rigors.

Sleep

If you feel groggy or tired after your procedure, it’s perfectly fine to take a nap or go to bed earlier than you normally would. Surgery can take a larger toll on our bodies then we realize, even beyond the area that was being operated on. Be sure you are getting enough sleep and resting in a way that is comfortable for your foot or ankle. If necessary, you might want to invest in some extra pillows or a wedge to help you rest your legs. If pain is keeping you from getting good sleep, techniques including meditation, listening to a sound machine, or breathing in calming essential oils might prove helpful.

Take medication and work with your physical therapist

As you recover, you are bound to have some aches and pains. We can work to find a pain-relieving medication that is a good fit for your situation and lifestyle. It’s important that you take your prescription as directed and continue to use it throughout your healing process. Additionally, it is essential that you follow the guidelines and expectations of your physical therapist. While you don’t want to push yourself too hard after surgery, you also don’t want to make your body weak. A physical therapist can help you find the right balance between these two scenarios. Listen to his or her expert advice, and follow through.

Eat well

Being off your feet means that you won’t have the opportunity to exercise or be active during your recovery. Keep this in mind as you choose your meals and snacks throughout the day. Opt for a range of healthy ingredients that will fend off excess weight gain, keep your muscles strong, and help your body recuperate. The New York area also has plenty of options for meal delivery services. If you think it would be helpful, you can also consider hiring a nutritionist to assist you.

Let others help

Speaking of assistance, don’t hesitate to accept help from your loved ones, friends, and coworkers as you heal. You won’t be able to do the things that you normally do with ease, and even a little help can go along way during your journey.