An appendectomy is a procedure in which the appendix is completely removed from the body. It is usually the remedy for appendicitis. While an appendectomy is a common procedure -- the most common intra-abdominal pediatric procedure -- it's still major surgery. You'll have one to two weeks when limited physical activity is recommended. Always follow your doctor's advice to ensure that your incision heals quickly and cleanly, while resuming mild and low impact exercise when you feel ready.
Rest
Immediately after your surgery, take time to rest according to your doctor's orders. You'll likely need assistance to walk in the hours after your surgery, as well as time in bed to recover from the surgery. Talk to your doctor about exercises that you can do while in bed to increase circulation, such drawing circles with your toe while your toes are pointed or flexing your feet. Avoid exercises that require you to flex your abdominal muscles, which may be sore after the surgery.
Walking
Walking will be the next form of exercise that your doctor will recommend. Walking can begin one to two days after the surgery or as your doctor suggests. At first, you may find it's easier to walk with assistance from a family member or nurse. Walking can help expedite the healing process as you regain mobility in your body. Do not avoid walking because you're afraid of the pain, which could slow the healing process. In the one to two weeks after your surgery, walk as much as your body allows.
Stair Climbing
As you regain mobility after your surgery, your doctor may urge you to climb stairs in your home, if possible. This is a common exercise in the week after your surgery, once you've mastered walking and feel comfortable maneuvering around your home. Try a few steps at a time, and always climb stairs with a spotter nearby in case you become exhausted or find the exercise painful. After two weeks of recuperation, you should be able to climb stairs easily.
Swimming
After two weeks, you're ready to begin adding low-impact exercise to your routine. Low-impact exercise can help you regain and maintain mobility in your body. You'll attend a two-week checkup with your doctor, where she'll check the incision site, remove any bandaging and recommend types of exercise that you can try. Swimming is popular for appendectomy patients, since the weightlessness of the water helps cushion the incision and reduces impact and strain. Try a water aerobics class, or head to the pool to swim a few laps.
References
- Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh: Laparoscopic Appendectomy
- Drugs.com: Laparoscopic Appendectomy
- Aurora Health Care: Appendectomy -- Open Surgery
- "Journal Watch Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine"; Appendicitis Rupture Rates: Healthcare Disparities Reflect More Than Access; William P. Kanto; January 2009
Member Comments