- Remember you will be sore and swollen so go slow. You need to ease back into activity. Listen to your body and it will take care of you in return.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Do yourself a big favor and skip the high heels and panty hose the first 2-4 weeks back to work.
- Have a small foot stool under your desk. It will feel good to elevate your feet during the day.
- Remember….no heavy lifting, bending, pulling or pushing for the first 6 weeks post op.
- Have a supply of mild pain meds on hand. You may need a dose by lunch time.
- Pack yourself high protein snacks and lunches. It will give you the energy you need to get through the day. Proper protein also helps in the healing process. Having the proper foods on hand will keep you out of the vending machine. Stay away from the sugar and sodium at all cost.
- Drink plenty of water during the day.
- Consider working shorter days the first week back on the job. Remember you have just recently had a major surgery. Keep Wonder Woman in the closet a while longer.
- Bring ice or heat packs with you. I needed both for my lower back. Consider purchasing one of the hot/cold herbal bags. They are so nice and work well both in the freezer and microwave. I have two, and this ensures that I always have one ready to go in the freezer.
- If you have a desk job, make sure to get up and move around each hour of the day. This will prevent stiffness.
- If wearing a binder, try wearing a soft all cotton tank top underneath. This provides some comfort during the day.
- For about the first two weeks back to work, do not make any plans for immediately after work. You are going to be wiped out and swollen. Go directly home and rest.
- When you arrive home, get comfortable and kick your feet up. Use ice packs if necessary.
- When I got home my lower legs were always so badly swollen. I would soak a hand towel in water; squeeze the excess, place in the freezer for 30 minutes. Remove from the freezer and wrap around your lower legs. Feels like heaven.
- Get a good night’s sleep each day. This will regenerate your body.
- Be patient with yourself. The total healing process takes time but better days are ahead. Chin up and stay positive.