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What can slow down – or speed up! – my recovery process


Many studies have investigated the factors that may lead to an extended recovery. In the Ida 2022 study mentioned in my previous post, several baseline factors were found to be strongly linked to the onset of new disabilities. These included: increased age, higher body mass index, more invasive surgical procedures, specific medical conditions, and signs of preoperative malnutrition.


These factors can be categorized as either modifiable or non-modifiable.

Modifiable Factors

  • fitness level

  • nutrition status

  • weight

Non-modifiable Factors

  • age

  • type of surgery required

  • underlying medical conditions

You can probably see where this is going. You can't control factors such as age, but you can exert some control over factors like nutrition and fitness.


The Stress of Surgery

Surgery places significant stress on the body. This can persist for days, weeks, or even months as the body repairs itself and fights off potential infections. The healing process demands (1) energy and (2) building blocks necessary for mending tissue damage. Unfortunately, the body obtains the essential building blocks by breaking down our muscle tissue. This breakdown is greater when we are unable to eat normally, such as after surgery, and leads to muscle loss, which in turn affects our physical recovery.


Even with precise and expertly executed surgery, the body's recovery resembles recuperating from a traumatic event, much like recovering from a car crash. Tissues require a dedicated period to heal, irrespective of the source of damage.

Fortunately, unlike car accidents, surgical procedures are scheduled in advance, allowing individuals time to prepare their bodies for the impending physical stress.


Connecting the Dots: Reaching Our Conclusion

Now, armed with all the background information, we can draw our conclusion.


If you've been following closely, you've likely pieced together where this story is headed. In fact, it's quite self-evident.


With major surgery:

  • We anticipate significant bodily stress in advance.

  • Extended recovery periods may occur in some individuals afterwards.

  • Good physical condition before surgery can expedite recovery.

  • Certain risk factors linked to prolonged recovery can be modified.

So, the key to bouncing back swiftly after surgery, hidden in plain sight, is... preparing oneself before the operation so that your body is ready.

This relatively new concept has been slowly evolving in the medical world, where it has become known as “surgical prehabilitation” – or Prehab.

Prehab uses the time before an operation to prepare your body and mind for the demands of surgery. It usually involves some combination of physical fitness, nutrition and psychological programs.


chart showing surgical recovery rate

Improving your health prior to surgery enhances your functional ability and resilience to surgical stress. This can reduce your post-surgery decline, speed up your recovery, and allow you to regain independence and resume normal activities sooner.

Through prehabilitation, you not only expedite your return to loved ones and to work, but also safeguard your strength and mobility, so you can enjoy the activities you cherish.

For those in their golden years, preserving independent living at home is a top priority. Retaining what you have and striving for an even higher level of function after your surgery is especially important.

So, when is the best time to embark on the journey toward greater strength and resilience? The answer is clear: right now!


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