Postoperative rehabilitation is a critical stage in restoring body function and preventing complications. A personalized plan should be developed based on the type of surgery and individual physical condition. Key priorities include a healthy diet, moderate activity, psychological adjustment, and regular checkups. Avoid rushing for results or excessive rest.
Basic Principles of Postoperative Rehabilitation
- Personalized Plan
The rehabilitation plan should be tailored to the surgical site (e.g., orthopedic, cardiovascular, oncology, etc.), the patient's age, and underlying medical conditions. For example, after joint surgery, range of motion should be gradually restored, while after abdominal surgery, infection prevention should be prioritized.
- Gradual Approach
Avoid premature strenuous exercise or complete rest. Rest primarily in the early stages, then gradually increase activity based on your doctor's recommendations to prevent muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.
Four Core Aspects of Postoperative Recovery
- Dietary Management
In the early postoperative period: Consume primarily light, easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid foods (such as porridge and soup), avoiding foods high in sugar and fat that can burden the stomach.
During the recovery period: Gradually increase protein (eggs, fish), vitamins (dark vegetables, fruits), and dietary fiber (oats, brown rice) to promote wound healing and boost immunity. Contraindications: Avoid spicy foods, tobacco, alcohol, and foods with allergies. Some surgeries require sodium or water intake control (such as kidney and heart surgery).
- Activity and Exercise
Early Mobility: 24-48 hours after surgery, simple exercises such as turning over in bed and leg lifts can be performed under a doctor's guidance to prevent blood clots and lung infections.
Functional Training: Rehabilitation exercises are selected based on the type of surgery. For example, after orthopedic surgery, joint flexion and extension exercises are required, while after brain surgery, cognitive and limb coordination exercises are required.
Contraindications: Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous running and jumping, and other activities that may strain the wound or increase organ strain.
- Psychological Adjustment
Postoperative pain and limited mobility can easily lead to anxiety or depression. Family companionship, meditation, or psychological counseling can help alleviate stress and maintain a positive attitude.
- Follow-up and Monitoring
Regularly check wound healing, blood test results (such as infection and anemia), and organ function (such as the heart, lungs, and digestive system).
Seek medical attention immediately if any abnormal symptoms such as fever, persistent pain, or oozing occur.
Key points for recovery from different surgeries
- Orthopedic surgery: Immobilization should be performed early, followed by gradual strengthening exercises to prevent joint stiffness.
- Cardiovascular surgery: Control blood pressure and blood lipids, and enhance cardiopulmonary function through low-intensity aerobic exercise (such as walking).
- Tumor resection: Adjust your diet based on your physical condition after chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and regularly check your tumor markers.
Precautions
- Avoid using home remedies or health supplements to prevent conflicts with medications.
- During recovery, limit late nights and ensure 7-8 hours of sleep to promote tissue repair.
- Family members should assist in recording changes in symptoms (such as temperature and pain levels) and provide timely feedback to the doctor.
- Postoperative recovery requires a combination of medical guidance and self-management, with patient cooperation and treatment for optimal recovery.