Health and Nutrition after Orthopedic Surgery

Patients have gone through orthopedic surgery for a myriad of reasons or injuries to their bodies. Such damages are generally for fractured bones, torn ligaments and tendon repairs. Even with non-invasive techniques, Orthopedic surgery can put stresses on the body. During post-op and the repair period, ensuring that you eat the right food after surgery is vital, which can greatly assist in speeding up the recovery process. Follow your doctor's suggestions and rehab closely. Recovering does not only mean that you get enough rest or take it easy with your injured area. You need to adapt a well-balanced diet filled with nutrients which are good in boosting the immune system and speed the recover time. Orthopedic surgeons often recommend some dietary elements which may be included in their suggested post-surgery regimen:

Low residue diet

After you have undergone surgery, it may be recommended to follow a low residue diet, which consists of food with low fiber like vegetables, fruit, eggs, and tender meat. This diet can assist in easy digestion which will aid and slow down bowel movements.

Protein rich diet

A protein rich diet can help assist the body repair and build organs and muscles. If you have a deficiency in proteins, you might suffer from fatigue. Proteins act as fuel for the body repair and it may be advisable that you consume at least three servings of pork, fish, beef, chicken, milk or cheese during the first stages of your healing.

Iron

Iron is recommended as it helps prevent a patient from suffering from anemia. Our bodies need a regular supply of iron so as to help in the creation of hemoglobin, which allow the red blood cells to transport oxygen all over the body. Constant and unobstructed flow of oxygen helps in promoting the healing process. Food high in iron include liver, sesame seeds, and dried apricots.

Vitamin A

This special vitamin assists in repairing the tissues, as well as aiding in the over healing process after surgery. In addition, it encourages new tissue generation and new skin growth. Foods which are rich in vitamin A include, fish oil, liver and cheese. Vitamin A is also important as it raises the body's resistance to infections.

Vitamin C

This vitamin assists in stimulating the manufacture of collagen, and also assists in healing wounds. It promotes the production of elastin, which is substantial in allowing the wound to stretch without causing any further damage. High levels of vitamin C can be found in fruits like oranges and lemons.

These post-surgery foods can be crucial in the healing process. If you have a diet that is rich in nutrients, you will recover faster and your immune system will remain strong even after going through orthopedic surgery. Having a good health and nutrition after surgery is a vital component to a quicker recovery.

Remember to live life to its Fullest

Dr. Kevin Crawford

4110 22nd Place Lubbock, TX 79410

(806) 792-4329

Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service only, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.