DRLUGO BLOG

Many people ask me what are the things that a person should do when they know that they are having surgery. How to prepare for such an event. My answer can be very technical or complex, but I try to simplify it. Just imagine that you are about to compete in the Olimpics. You have to prepare your body for a very demanding event. You should try to be in the best conditions possible from the nutrition stand point, rest and psychologically. The individual should start by placing positive thoughts in their mind. It is important that the person visualizes the surgey going well and a positive outcome. There should be minimal or no negative thoughts in the mind. Not to say that there will be no fear. It is expected certain degree of fear of the unknown, but we need to counteract this with positive thoughts and visualization. this is very powerful and very important. The pt should also try to rest the days before surgery and try to have good nights of sleep. this will normalize the cortisol levels. this is a very important hormone in the healing process and for the utilization of sugars and nutrients during moments of stress The pt should try to eat healthy and balanced food. This stimulates also the growth and replication of healthy cells. IT is never too late to start a healthy diet and then maintain it during the healing process. Excercise also helps tone the muscles and build some muscle mass to weather the tough times. Everytime we even think of exercise the body releases hormones that help us deal with pain and stress. these are called endorphins. IF the pt starts an exercise program and sticks to it, they can stimulate the release of endorphins and help with pain control and coping with the surgical stress. By this I do not mean a strenuous exercise for someone that has never done exercise. IT could be as simple as starting a walking program and build on it. Each person needs to start at a comfortable level and slowly build on it. Smoking and alcohol should be avoided as many days before surgery as possible. Both of these toxic substances can weaken the immune system and the power of the body to heal and recover. Finally make sure that there is a good support and planning for the recovery time. We should have a plan for the first few days after surgery and then the weeks following. Do not wait for after surgery to plan the recovery. It helps to have a realistic image and mental plan of the series of events and the duration. IT helps to communicate with your doctor who can give you realistic expectations on the timing and what to expect. He/She probably has done this many times and has a pretty good idea of the expected time for full recovery. These are simplified steps, but I think that are essential and very easy to follow. If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask me or visit my website drlugo.com.

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