All surgeries can be stressful. Oftentimes it’s the issues we didn’t plan for that can make the most difference. However, if you take some time and plan ahead you can help alleviate some of the stress and improve your chances at a healthy, happy recovery.
Pre-Spine Surgery Tip: Improve Yourself
Some of the best ways to improve your chances at a healthy recovery process is to improve your overall health before you even enter the operating room. Maintaining a healthy diet and light exercise within your limits can help improve your circulation. Improving circulation is vital for recovery as the circulatory system moves healing nutrients and reduces inflammation throughout the body. If you need help improving your diet or are limited in your physical capabilities, it is always advised to consult your doctor and possibly a nutritionist to find a solution tailored to your specific needs.
One of the best things you can do for your body to help improve your chances at a healthy recovery is to quit using nicotine. Nicotine can decrease blood flow, lowering the body’s ability to send healing nutrients to affected areas, prolonging your recovery period. If you are looking to quit using nicotine, consult with your doctor to form a plan to increase your chances at success.
Preparing your body for surgery is important, but often overlooked is preparing your mind. It is perfectly natural to feel stress or fear when you’ve scheduled a surgery. If you’ve been feeling a little overwhelmed, it’s always encouraged to speak to a counselor. High levels of stress have been shown to hinder recovery efforts and even increase inflammation, making pain throughout the body worse.
Pre-Spine Surgery Tip: Prepare Your Home
If your planned surgery is going to leave you with limitations in your mobility, it’s highly recommended to “surgery-proof” your home before the big day. When preparing your home for the days after a surgery be on the lookout for potential tripping and accessibility issues that may cause potential problems. For example, that extension cord in the middle of the floor that you’ve stepped over hundreds of times while you were healthy may not seem like a big deal, but in the immediate days following surgery if you’re shuffling your feet, suddenly that same cord can become a tripping hazard, sending you stumbling to the ground. Slip proof your bathroom and kitchen surfaces. Secure loose carpets. Remove runners if they have a tendency to bunch up. View your home with a critical eye to avoid a potential problem. There is nothing worse than taking a fall right after a back or neck surgery so prepare your home accordingly.
Take a look around your home for things you may need as well. Invest in slip on shoes and walking equipment such as canes, walkers or crutches. Stock up on ice packs, heating pads, sanitary supplies and over the counter pain medicines to avoid running low on supplies. If you are being prescribed medication, talk to your doctor about getting your scripts filled before your surgery so it’s one less trip you have to make after. It’s also advised to have nutritious, easy snacks and meals on hand to combat cravings without putting in too much effort.
If you have a pet, make sure that someone can help take care of them. If you need a dog walker or pet-sitter, be sure to schedule in advance to ensure your fur baby is taken care of while you’re temporarily out of commission.
Pre-Spine Surgery Tip: Surgery Day
The day of your surgery should be properly planned. Follow the directions of your doctors and surgeons. If you are scheduled for an outpatient surgery, make sure that you have a friend or family member that can transport you to and from your appointment. After your surgery, make sure you have set yourself up to take it easy. Watch that Netflix series you always wanted to see, read a book, listen to music, learn something new, find something to engage in to occupy your mind while your body recovers. If you experience any compilations, be sure to communicate your concerns to your doctor so that they may be addressed immediately.
Here at the offices of William Capicotto MD we wish all of our patients a healthy recovery. Our staff is committed to providing compassionate care to all patients old and new. Call us today at (716) 881-0382 and restore motion to your spine.
